Matcha Magic capitalizes on America’s green tea obsession
Matcha Magic to expand as increasing demand for green tea cafes rises across the U.S.
auto_awesome
Matcha Magic, a café specializing in matcha, is set to expand after receiving over 100 franchise inquiries since opening its initial location in 2022. The brand has opened six locations and has refined its franchise model to better support future franchisees, focusing on sustainability and wellness.
Why It Matters
The influx of franchise inquiries suggests strong consumer demand, which may create opportunities for franchisees in emerging health-focused markets. This expansion could also compress available territories for potential entrants into the wellness segment.
Matcha Magic, a growing franchise focused on matcha beverages and wellness, has expanded its footprint to six locations, primarily in Washington. Founded by Rachel Barnecut and Norman Wu, the brand originated in 2022 as a single café in Bellevue, aiming to offer a unique matcha experience and promote health benefits through its offerings. Initially conceived as a passion project, interest in franchising surged after just five months, prompting Wu to consider expansion seriously after receiving over 100 inquiries.
Barnecut and Wu, leveraging Wu's extensive background in franchised restaurant concepts through his company, Conscious Hospitality Group, aimed to establish a sustainable and health-focused model. The franchise's appeal lies in its commitment to using certified organic matcha, house-made almond milk, and real fruit purees, alongside wholesome ingredients like adaptogens and collagen powders in their offerings. Furthermore, the brand distinguishes itself by donating 5% of sales to Ladies Who Launch, supporting women-owned businesses.
After refining their business model, standardizing recipes, and developing a training program, Matcha Magic brought on its first franchise partner, a loyal customer who seasoned their brand experience. With plans for further growth on the horizon, Wu indicated, “It was amazing to have this much interest, but we waited a couple of years because we needed to figure out how everything works before we could actively grow Matcha Magic with other people.”
