Kung Fu Tea Astoria

 

After noticing a lack of quality bubble tea in Astoria, Edwin Leong decided to open his own Kung Fu Tea franchise. Edwin knew opening a new business was complex and decided to take advantage of the no-cost, one-to-one business counseling offered by the Pace SBDC. He met with Senior Business Advisor Rawle Brown, who outlined the necessary business planning steps, how to formally incorporate a business, and reviewed financing options and other resources available for entrepreneurs. With this support, Edwin secured a lease for a space in a busy commercial district and launched the new venture in June 2021 creating 13 new jobs in Astoria, Queens.

 

When Edwin ran into food regulation challenges related to his new space, Rawle connected him with Carlos Sugranes, Senior Account Manager at NYC Business Solutions. Carlos was instrumental in providing guidelines for obtaining and applying for NYC permits, as well as resources related to food inspection and safety.​

 

While business started strong, Edwin sought strategies to market his business during the historically slower winter months. He wanted to highlight some of the store's winter related offerings such as delivery and a new line of hot bubble tea drinks. Edwin again reached out to the Pace SBDC, this time for marketing advice, and met with Business Advisor Susan Gluck and Student Intern Joe Peterson. Susan, Joe, and Edwin talked through the business’s marketing goals and began to brainstorm new ways of attracting customers and elevating the business’s presence in the local community.

 

The Pace SBDC’s team of Business Advisors are here for all NYS entrepreneurs to help them build and launch their small businesses. All of our services are offered at no-cost and you can make an appointment with a business advisor by visiting our website or emailing sbdc@pace.edu.