Case clarifying with Gong Cha whether prepaid cards can be redeemed or refunded when it reopens
The Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) has reached out to Gong Cha Global to clarify if customers holding prepaid or gift cards would be able to obtain refunds or redeem the unutilised value when the franchise reopens in Singapore.
Case is also requesting the company to provide a clearer timeline on when the bubble tea franchise will reopen in Singapore, added Case president Melvin Yong in a social media post on Oct 3.
Consumers are advised to keep detailed records of any prepaid balances or gift card purchases.
In a statement on Oct 2 evening, Gong Cha Global said it has "temporarily shut" its outlets in Singapore, reported The Straits Times.
The Taiwanese company said it has decided not to renew the agreement with its incumbent master franchisee, but will relaunch in Singapore in partnership with new local franchisees.
Gong Cha Singapore chief executive, Mr Kang Puay Seng, told Chinese-language daily Lianhe Zaobao that Gong Cha Singapore was no longer the franchisee from Oct 1.
The statement also carried an assurance from the company to all stakeholders that all issues arising from the closure would be handled responsibly and fairly.
Global CEO Paul Reynish said: "Singapore is a really important market for us, and we're really excited about relaunching in 2026."
