Bubble tea shop to launch its first outlet in Yorkshire

An international bubble tea operator is to open at the Merrion Centre this weekend in the Leeds’ Arena Quarter, creating a minimum of 20 jobs for the city.

Gong Cha, which is co-owned by the Kazumi Group and backed by F&B investors, was founded in Kaohsiung, Taiwan in 2006 and has grown to become one of the most recognisable quality tea providers with 1,600 outlets worldwide.

Selling authentic bubble tea from Taiwan, the brand already has 10 stores across the UK with the new Merrion Centre venue being its first outlet in Yorkshire, with more stores slated to open.

The Merrion Centre has enhanced its choice of Chinese speciality food and beverage operators in recent years including Blue Sakura, Sing Kee Supermarket, Mi’s Noodles and Oba Bar & Kitchen, as well as Chinese rotisserie specialist Eatime.

In addition, premium dining venue Blue Pavilion, which will offer a-la-carte Oriental dining and up-market karaoke is also set to open at the Merrion Centre.

Charles Newman, associate director, estates at Town Centre Securities, owners of the centre, said: “It is fantastic to secure this premium bubble tea operator within the Merrion Centre, giving our shoppers even more choice.

“Our Oriental food and drink line up continues to grow with so much to offer from on trend bubble teas to traditional noodles and luxury dining.

“The Merrion Centre is fast securing its place as a destination for discerning diners and shoppers looking for authentic tastes and experiences from around the world.”

Amjad Khan, Gong Cha co-owner, added: “We are excited to open our new bubble tea shop in the Leeds Arena Quarter – the Merrion Centre is a great venue in a prime location.

“We’ve had many Leeds residents visit us in our other UK stores asking when we are opening in the city, so it’s a pleasure to finally realise this.”