Operations

HTeaO closes out 2025 with 36 openings, focus on beverage innovation

Photo: HTeaO

January 12, 2026

Iced-tea chain HTeaO closed out 2025 with 35 new locations, including 14 openings in Q4 alone, according to a press release.

Throughout 2025, HTeaO broadened its national footprint with growth across Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico, while also entering Arizona, Tennessee and Colorado as new states. With these openings, HTeaO now operates in 11 states nationwide.

"2025 was a year of intentional growth while remaining true to the HTeaO experience," Shane Clark, CDO of HTeaO, said in the press release. "That momentum is a direct reflection of the strength of our franchise partners and the demand we continue to see across the country.

"As we look to 2026, we're planning for more than 40 openings and expansion into new markets including Scottsdale and Sarasota."

The brand also launched Fizzy Refreshers, a new twist on HTeaO's Refresher lineup featuring Maison Perrier sparkling water.

Community impact remained a key priority for HTeaO throughout 2025. In May, the brand's partnership with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation raised $147,311.57, funding more than 14 months of pediatric cancer research. That commitment continued in October with HTeaO's fourth annual Round-Up campaign, which raised $150,110 for the Ryan Palmer Foundation Breast Cancer Initiative, marking the program's most successful year to date.

"In 2025, we stayed focused on growing thoughtfully, bringing HTeaO to more communities, introducing seasonal drinks guests get excited about, and showing up for causes that matter," Heath Nielsen, president of HTeaO, said in the press release. "That same approach will carry into 2026 as we keep building on what our guests and franchise partners love most about the brand."

HTeaO has more than 150 locations.