HTeaO Opens Nine New Stores in Q3 2026, Expanding Footprint Across Established Markets

New CEO appointment, product innovation, and seasonal promotions also marked an active third quarter for the growing beverage brand

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--HTeaO, the nation’s leading iced tea franchise, opened nine new stores across Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas during the third quarter of 2026, building on the brand’s presence in markets where it continues to see strong guest and franchisee demand. The quarter also marked a new chapter for HTeaO with the appointment of Brian Wise as Chief Executive Officer, alongside a lineup of new products, seasonal promotions and loyalty initiatives designed to keep guests engaged throughout the summer and into fall.

The nine Q3 openings expanded HTeaO’s footprint across three established states, bringing the brand to additional communities while continuing to build density in markets where it already has a growing presence.

The complete list of new HTeaO stores opened in Q3 2026 includes:

• Katy, TX – 19832 W. Little York Rd., Katy, TX 77449
• Lowell, AR – 300 W. Monroe Ave., Lowell, AR 72745
• Altus, OK – 312 E. Tamarack Rd., Altus, OK 73521
• Lufkin, TX – 1410 S. First St., Lufkin, TX 75901
• El Campo, TX – 606 N. Mechanic St., El Campo, TX 77437
• El Paso, TX – 1626 N. Resler Dr., El Paso, TX 79911
• Bixby, OK – 10401 S. Memorial Dr., Tulsa, OK 74133
• Fort Smith, AR – 7500 Phoenix Ave., Fort Smith, AR 72903
• Presidio, TX – 316 Jose Rodriguez St., Presidio, TX 79845

The quarter also brought a significant leadership transition, with Brian Wise appointed Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder Justin Howe transitioning to Executive Chairman. In his new role, Wise will lead the company through its next stage while Howe remains actively involved in shaping HTeaO’s long-term direction and supporting its franchisees and store operations.

“Stepping into the CEO role during a quarter with so much momentum has only reinforced what an exciting opportunity we have ahead of us,” said Brian Wise, Chief Executive Officer of HTeaO. “There is a strong foundation in place, from our franchise partners and team members to the loyalty we’ve built with our guests. As we look ahead, my focus is on building on those strengths, supporting our franchisees as they grow, and making sure we continue to deliver the experience that has made HTeaO so special.”

Beyond its store growth and leadership transition, HTeaO continued to strengthen the brand through a series of seasonal promotions and limited-time offerings designed to drive guest engagement, create additional visit occasions, and keep the concept relevant throughout the summer, back-to-school, and football seasons.

In July, HTeaO introduced Mini Sippers, a new ready-to-drink format that offered guests a smaller, grab-and-go alternative to the brand’s gallon offerings. The month also included promotions tied to National Drive-Thru Day, National Cowboy Day, and National Dog Day, giving guests added value through limited-time offers.

As families returned to school and football season got underway in August, HTeaO rolled out Back-to-School Brews, the Tailgate Two Pack and Reverse Happy Hour, creating offers built around morning routines, afternoon refreshment and game-day gatherings.

August marked the debut of the limited-time Pineapple Chipotle Refresher featuring Tajín®, which paired sweet pineapple, lemonade, chipotle, and Tajín® with HTeaO’s CleanBoost Energy. The launch was extended through Tajín® Tuesdays, which offered Rewards members double loyalty points on Tajín®-featured items throughout August and broadened the activation beyond a single beverage launch.

HTeaO rounded out the quarter in September with a Labor Day gallon promotion and the launch of Mystery Mix. The Labor Day offer centered on sharing occasions, while Mystery Mix brought a more playful element to the menu and encouraged guests to try something new.

“We want every promotion and product launch to give our guests another reason to enjoy HTeaO,” said Brittany Knollmiller, Director of Marketing at HTeaO. “Throughout Q3, that meant finding new ways to fit into the moments already happening in their lives, whether it was heading back to school, getting together for game day or simply trying a new flavor. At the same time, our loyalty program allows us to reward our most engaged guests and keep giving them something new to look forward to.”

For more information on HTeaO and franchise opportunities, please visit HTeaO.com/franchise.

About HTeaO

HTeaO is the leading iced tea franchise in the United States, pioneering a fast-growing category within the broader beverage industry. With a cost-effective and attractive business model, the brand operates its own supply chain, resulting in reduced costs of goods for franchisees. Offering a range of ultra-premium tea, water and coffee products, HTeaO provides convenient service to customers both in-store and through drive-thru. Each location boasts 20+ meticulously crafted flavors of sweetened and unsweetened tea utilizing its proprietary water filtration system. HTeaO now operates more than 180 locations and continues its rapid national expansion. HTeaO is fostering an atmosphere where all are welcome and takes pride in its commitment to giving back to its local communities. For more information on franchise opportunities, please visit https://hteaofranchise.com/.