HTeaO Doubles Store Count in Just 18 Months, Continuing Rapid Expansion

Original Article: Franchise Times - August 07, 2024

As recently noted in Franchise Times’ ongoing series “Where are They Now?” reporters Megan Glenn and Emilee Wentland shined their spotlight back on one of Crux Capital’s fastest-growing portfolio companies when they spoke to Justin Howe, Founder and CEO of HTeaO, in order to measure the growth and progress made by this beloved emerging brand since the company was first featured in an interview from 2022.

When you consider HTeaO’s exponential growth, increasing from 63 to 128 units in just 18 months, it could be said that (in the Southern states, at least) Sweet Tea and Sweet Times go hand in hand. According to Howe, HTeaO has over 100 stores in construction at the moment, spanning from Arizona to Florida, although most of them won’t open until 2025 or beyond. From his perspective, most of the expansion comes organically from fans of the brand.

HTeaO’s drinks, starting at 24 ounces and going up to 44 ounces, have gained a cult following, with customers flocking in just for their tea. With over two dozen flavors and customizable sweetness levels, it’s no wonder the brand has attracted such a solid fan base. Among their standout flavors, guests rave over HTeaO’s twist on the classic Arnold Palmer tea and lemonade mix, by brewing theirs with green tea enhanced with almond extract and renaming the drink “Ryan Palmer” after the Texas golfer.

Do yourself a favor and find your flavor!