Jollibee to build more stores in US, Canada

MANILA – Jollibee Foods Corp said Monday it planned to expand its stores in the US to 150 in 5 years and add 100 branches in Canada.

The country's largest fast food operator confirmed the expansions plans in a disclosure to the stock exchange. It was first reported on Bloomberg markets.

Jollibee aims to be among the world's top 5 quick service restaurant operators, according to the disclosure.

Jollibee had said it opened 192 stores in the first half of 2018, spending P8.3 billion in capital expenditures and acquisitions.

It also raised its stake in US burger chain Smashburger to 85 percent and announced plans for a Mexican food venture.

In October Filipinos lined up for Jollibee's first store in London, some of whom came from other parts of Europe. The company opened its first store in the continent, located in Milan, Italy, last May.

Jollibee marked its 1,000th store milestone in the Philippines in July 2017. It also has stores in Vietnam, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Brunei.

Last May, Jollibee said it would invest 45 million Singapore dollars (P1.74 billion) in a private equity fund that is set to acquire the master franchise of Tim Ho Wan in the Asia Pacific.

The Filipino company is also eyeing British sandwich chain Pret A Manger, Reuters reported in late 2017.

source: news.abs-cbn.com

US sports bar chain to open in PH

MANILA, Philippines - Buffalo Wild Wings Inc. will enter the Philippines later this year as they agreed terms with a local restaurant operator, marking their first foray in Asia.

The Minneapolis-based sports bar signed with The Bistro Group, whose local operations include Italianni's, TGI Friday's and Bulgogi Brothers, to start construction on branches in Makati and Manila.

"We are thrilled to continue our international expansion to the Philippines with The Bistro Group, and bring our wings, beer and exciting sports experience to even more guests across the globe," said Sally Smith, chief operating officer and president of Buffalo Wild Wings.

"The Philippines has passionate sports fans, who we believe will love the great atmosphere at Buffalo Wild Wings, as well as enjoy a menu filled with our classic hot fresh wings, and local favorites," she added.

Matt Brokl, vice president of international development at Buffalo Wild Wings, felt that the Philippines was the "natural choice" in Asia, considering it to be among the fastest growing economies in the region.

"The economy is growing faster than China`s and with an expanding middle class, there is a lot of enthusiasm for casual dining. The exciting sports atmosphere of the restaurant will fit perfectly with sports fans in the Philippines," Brokl said.

Buffalo Wild Wings Inc. has more than 940 branches in the US, and has recently expanded internationally with 13 branches in Canada and the announcement of plans in Mexico and the Middle East.

source: www.abs-cbnnews.com