HTeaO added nine locations across Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas in the third quarter while introducing a new CEO, seasonal products and loyalty-driven promotions.
- HTeaO opens nine new stores across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas in Q3 2026.
- Brian Wise appointed as the new CEO of HTeaO.
- Introduction of new promotions and products, including Mini Sippers and Pineapple Chipotle Refresher.
HTeaO added nine stores across Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas during the third quarter of 2026, extending its reach across established markets while entering new communities. The openings included locations in Katy, Lowell, Altus, Lufkin, El Campo, El Paso, Bixby, Fort Smith and Presidio, bringing the Texas-born iced tea brand’s network to more than 180 locations. The expansion reflects continued franchise momentum as HTeaO builds its presence across the region.
The company also entered the quarter with a leadership transition. Brian Wise assumed the role of chief executive officer, succeeding Justin Howe, who moved into the position of executive chairman. Wise said the momentum surrounding the nine openings reinforced the opportunity ahead for HTeaO, while the company continued working with franchisees and building on the brand’s established customer following.
HTeaO paired its physical expansion with an active product and promotional calendar throughout the quarter. July brought the introduction of Mini Sippers along with promotions tied to National Drive-Thru Day and National Dog Day. In August, the brand introduced Back-to-School Brews and the Tailgate Two Pack as customers returned to school and football season approached. HTeaO also added a limited-edition Pineapple Chipotle Refresher featuring Tajín to its menu, giving customers another seasonal option.
September continued the promotional momentum with the launch of the Mystery Mix and a Labor Day gallon promotion aimed at encouraging customers to bring HTeaO beverages into their celebrations. The brand also used Tajín Tuesdays to reward loyalty members with double points, creating another reason for customers to return while giving the limited-time product a recurring promotional platform.
For franchise brands managing recurring customer programs across multiple locations, Gorilla Dash offers a Memberships and Subscriptions feature that can help organize ongoing customer relationships as networks expand. While HTeaO uses its rewards program and rotating offers to maintain engagement, franchise operators can similarly structure customer programs around repeat visits and promotional activity.
With nine new stores, a leadership change and a steady flow of new products and promotions, HTeaO's third quarter was defined by expansion on several fronts. The combination of new locations and continued customer engagement gives the brand a broader platform as it moves into the next phase of its franchise growth strategy.
Key Facts:
| New Store Openings | HTeaO opened nine new locations in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas in the third quarter of 2026. |
|---|---|
| Leadership Transition | Brian Wise took over as CEO while Justin Howe transitioned to Executive Chairman. |
| New Promotions | HTeaO launched a series of promotions including Mini Sippers and Tajín®-related promotions. |
| Seasonal Offerings | Products like the Pineapple Chipotle Refresher were introduced for limited periods. |
| Expansion Strategy | HTeaO is focused on expanding its presence in existing markets while exploring new communities. |
| Customer Engagement | Through loyalty programs and seasonal campaigns, HTeaO maintains high customer interaction. |
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