Chatime and SunnyUp open first U.S. dual-brand store in Katy

Chatime and SunnyUp have opened their first U.S. dual-brand concept store in Katy, Texas, combining tea, Taiwanese sponge cakes and savory snacks in one location. The debut marks SunnyUp’s first U.S. retail footprint and gives Chatime a new training site as the brands test a model they may expand to more U.S. markets.

Why it matters: - The Katy store gives U.S. customers a single location for tea, desserts and savory Taiwanese snacks. - SunnyUp’s U.S. retail debut expands the Taiwanese bakery brand beyond its home market. - Chatime is using the site as a learning and training location for future U.S. growth. - The concept is designed to appeal to different ages and tastes, which could broaden both brands’ reach.

What happened: - Chatime and SunnyUp opened their first U.S. dual-brand concept store on September 12 in Katy, Texas. - The store is located at 23119 Colonial Parkway, Suite C4. - The opening brought together Chatime’s handcrafted tea beverages, SunnyUp’s sponge cakes and savory items including popcorn chicken and fried calamari. - The store launched with a celebration attended by local community leaders and members of Houston’s Asian American community. - The event included lion and dragon dances, a live DJ and opening promotions. - Grand opening promotions continue through the end of September.

The details: - Chatime is Taiwan-founded and has more than 1,400 locations worldwide. - SunnyUp is a Taiwanese sponge cake bakery known for light, soft cakes and classic flavors. - Chatime’s menu at the Katy store includes Boba Milk Tea and the Camellia Series. - The Camellia Series focuses on floral tea aromas and a more refined tea experience. - Houston was chosen for the first dual-brand concept because of its diverse population, strong Asian American community and food scene. - Chatime has more than 20 U.S. locations across 13 states. - The Katy location is intended to help Chatime and SunnyUp gather customer feedback, refine the concept and evaluate similar stores in other markets. - Chatime expects to open three additional U.S. locations before the end of the year and plans more expansion in 2027. - More information is available on Chatime’s website.

Between the lines: - The dual-brand format lets Chatime test whether pairing drinks with bakery items and savory foods increases visit occasions and average order size. - The concept also positions SunnyUp as more than a specialty dessert brand by introducing it through a retail experience instead of a standalone bakery. - The focus on the Camellia Series suggests Chatime sees room in the U.S. for tea offerings beyond standard boba.

What’s next: - Chatime will use the Katy store to collect feedback and inform future U.S. openings. - Additional U.S. stores are planned before year-end, with more expansion expected in 2027. - The company will continue grand opening promotions through September as the new location builds awareness and traffic.