Potato Corner set to expand in Asia Pacific

MANILA, Philippines - MANILA, Philippines - Filipino-owned and phenomenal flavored French fries retailer, Potato Corner which now has overseas branches in four other countries, including 13 outlets in the United States, is now talking to prospective partners and franchises in several Asia Pacific countries.

Jose ‘Jomag’ P. Magsaysay Jr., Potato Corner CEO said discussions are now in progress with prospective master franchises in China, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Likewise in the radar of Potato Corner’s overseas expansion thrust next year is Vietnam. “We are talking with some possible master franchise applicants now for these countries,” Magsaysay shared.

Potato Center, a locally bred franchise concept which is now celebrating its 20th year in the industry, currently has a network of about 300 stores spread in the Philippines, the US, Panama, Indonesia and Malaysia.

He said Potato Corner’s expansion program is guided by a simple principle: Go to any country whose youth loves French fries.

“In the USA, our US-based company is on target to reach 100 stores by the end of 2013 and 3,000 plus stores in 20 years. We also plan to become a multi-brand company,” Magsaysay emphasized.

In the Philippines, he said Potato Corner’s mother firm is now evolving into a multi-brand venture, with plans to acquire more existing brands as part of its expansion and diversification program.

Potato Corner has gone a long way since it started operation 20 years ago when Magsaysay and his three partners actually struggled to raise meager capital for the venture.

“We had to find a way to grow the business given that we did not have enough financial resources to open other outlets after the first store. We also had to compete in an environment with increasing number of competitors in the same business model, which is the kiosk business, and maintain a good cost for our merchandise,” Magsaysay added.

For franchising inquiries, call Potato Center hotline at 534-5845, or email [email protected], or visit its website at www.potatocenter.com.