The cost of opening a bubble tea shop in the United States can vary depending on factors such as location, store size, brand positioning, equipment choices, and decoration style. Below is a rough cost estimate for your reference:
1. Initial Startup Costs
(1) Store Rent
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City Tier: Rent is higher in major cities (e.g., New York, Los Angeles) and lower in small to medium-sized cities.
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Store Size: A recommended store size is around 500-1,500 square feet (approximately 46-140 square meters).
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Estimate:
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Major cities: Approximately 3,000−10,000 per month.
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Small to medium-sized cities: Approximately 1,500−5,000 per month.
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Deposit: Typically, 1-3 months' rent is required as a deposit.
(2) Renovation Costs
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Simple Style: Approximately 10,000−30,000.
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High-End Style: Approximately 50,000−100,000.
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Note: Renovation costs vary depending on design complexity, material choices, and local labor rates.
(3) Equipment Purchases
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Basic Equipment:
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Commercial ice machine: Approximately 1,500−4,000.
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Sealing machine: Approximately 500−1,500.
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Shaker (cocktail shaker): Approximately 500.
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Pearl cooking pot: Approximately 200−500.
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Refrigerator: Approximately 1,000−3,000.
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Cash register system: Approximately 1,000−2,500.
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Total: Approximately 5,000−12,000.
(4) Raw Materials and Inventory
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Initial Raw Materials (tea leaves, pearls, syrup, non-dairy creamer, cups, straws, etc.): Approximately 2,000−5,000.
(5) Franchise Fees (Optional)
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Franchise Fee: Well-known brands charge approximately 20,000−20,000−50,000.
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Brand Royalty Fee: Typically 5-10% of revenue.
(6) Other Costs
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Business License and Permits: Approximately 500−2,000.
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Promotion and Opening Events: Approximately 2,000−5,000.
2. Monthly Operating Costs
(1) Rent: As mentioned above.
(2) Utilities: Approximately 500−500−1,500.
(3) Employee Salaries:
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Number of Employees: Generally, 2-4 employees are needed.
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Salary Level: Approximately 10−15 per hour (including tips).
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Total: Approximately 4,000−8,000 per month.
(4) Raw Material Costs: Approximately 2,000−5,000.
(5) Other Expenses (e.g., cleaning, maintenance): Approximately 500−1,500.
3. Total Cost Estimate
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Initial Startup Costs: Approximately 30,000−100,000.
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Monthly Operating Costs: Approximately 8,000−20,000.
4. Factors Affecting Costs
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Location: Costs are higher in major cities and lower in small to medium-sized cities.
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Brand Positioning: High-end brands require higher investment in renovation and equipment.
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Store Size: Larger stores incur higher rent and renovation costs.
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Business Model: Franchise brands require franchise and royalty fees, while self-created brands do not.
5. Recommendations
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Market Research: Conduct detailed market research before opening to understand local consumer preferences and competition.
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Cost Control: Choose cost-effective equipment and raw materials, and avoid excessive renovation.
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Marketing Strategy: Utilize social media and online platforms for promotion to attract more customers.