Franchiser Matcha Magic Says It’s Leading the Way for Women-Owned Businesses in the Booming Tea Industry

Matcha Magic, a popular matcha bar, noted that demand for franchising the concept is strong. With more than 50 franchise requests since its opening, the brand continues to expand while retaining its high standards of quality and sustainability.

Matcha Magic is backed by Conscious Hospitality Group, a growth equity investor that provides incubation, capital and connections to expand purpose-driven concepts.

Owner Rachel Barnecut attributes the success of the brand to its focus on education around the many benefits of matcha and its warm atmosphere.

“Matcha on its own is a great product for people to incorporate into their daily lives, and Matcha Magic has created a welcoming and approachable space for it to shine,” said Barnecu.

Rachel Barnecut - Matcha Magic Franchise - Tea Shop Retailer
Rachel Barnecut, owner of Matcha Magic (Photo: Courtesy of Matcha Magic)

The matcha cafe offers similar options to espresso-based menus, including lattes, mochas and macchiatos, inspiring customers to try something new, yet familiar, often resulting in new matcha fans.

Overall, Matcha Magic is committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients for its menu. Even before deciding on its signature matcha, Barnecut ensured it met her quality standards for securing and processing the leaf and its flavor profile.

For selecting other ingredients – like boosters and adaptogens – Barnecut first decides if an ingredient is right for Matcha Magic. It then becomes an exploration of procurement and determining if a quality version can be attained reliably, and at a reasonable cost.

Matcha Magic’s sustainability initiatives include using only compostable or recyclable materials in-store. The company’s dedication to DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) offers a reduced franchise fee for women or minority partners.

Barnecut didn't initially plan on franchising so soon, though, but the number of requests, overwhelmingly from women, made it a natural choice for expansion. Today, she's looking for franchisees who share her passion for matcha and who have found a personal connection to the Matcha Magic brand and values.

The future of Matcha Magic includes new openings around Seattle, including the Eastside, and nationwide openings in Hoboken, N.J., and Nashville, Tenn. There will also be upcoming collaborations with other local brands. Additionally, the menu will be expanding to include smoothies with its seasonal offerings, including the popular Fruity Pebbles Matcha Latte.

Matcha Magic - Ceremonial Grade Matcha
Matcha Magic's Organic Ceremonial Matcha (Photo: Courtesy of Matcha Magic)

Barnecut also hopes to inspire other women entrepreneurs. She encourages them to keep asking questions and not to settle. Matcha Magic also donates five percent of its sales to Ladies Who Launch, a nonprofit committed to bridging the equity gap in entrepreneurship for women and non-binary entrepreneurs of diverse backgrounds.

For more information about franchising opportunities or their menu, visit Matcha Magic at ItsMatchaMagic.com.

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