Operator seeking capital partner for Ume Tea (or tea concept) — Central Valley / Bay Area
October 07, 2025
by a searcher from California State University, Stanislaus - College of Business Administration in Oakland, CA, USA
Pre-revenue — site scouting; vendor quotes in hand; target opening 6–9 months post-funding.
Lathrop-based operator launching a UME Tea unit serving commuter and school traffic across the Central Valley. Seeking a capital partner (silent or advisory) to fund build-out and opening with a clear return profile and monthly operator reporting.
Why now
Central Valley suburban growth + youth-driven beverage demand; multiple inline/kiosk footprints with modest build-out; strong after-school/evening dayparts.
Deal structures (choose one):
• Preferred return + profit share: 8–12% annual pref + negotiated profit split until capital returned; reduced ongoing split thereafter.
• Revenue share (short-term feel): fixed % of monthly gross until 1.3–1.6× invested is repaid; no equity.
• Equity with buy-back: day-one equity with operator buy-back option at a pre-agreed multiple after 24–36 months if targets are met.
Unit economics (conservative base case):
AOV $8.50 | Daily tickets ~120 | COGS ~30% | Labor ~24% | Contribution margin ~32% | Capex ~ $225k | Payback ~ 24–30 months
Raise details:
Target: $250,000 (minimum acceptable close $175,000) — equity-only or blended with SBA 7(a).
Use of funds: Build-out & equipment 55%; franchise fees & training 15%; working capital 15%; contingency 10%; permits/legal 5%.
Governance & reporting: Operated by Rooted Creative Group LLC (DBA “UME Tea Lathrop”) with a dedicated sub-account and separate P&L. Monthly reporting includes revenue by daypart, COGS/Labor %, cash balance, and distributions per the chosen structure.
Status & timeline: Site scouting; franchisor diligence/FDD review in progress; vendor quotes & preliminary floor plan ready. Target opening: 6–9 months post-funding.
Contact / data room
Deck + one-pager + capex detail available on request.
Disclaimer
This is not an offer to sell securities. Any investment will be made only pursuant to definitive agreements and investor qualification.