14 US franchise concepts to visit Phl

MANILA, Philippines -  A delegation composed of 14 American franchise concepts is visiting the country to explore market opportunities.

In a statement yesterday, the US Embassy said it is bringing 14 prominent franchise concepts to explore the growing franchise market in the Philippines.

The franchise trade mission is being organized with the US Commercial Service, a government agency tasked to promote business between the two countries.

The delegation, which has support from the International Franchise

Association and the Franchise Times, will be in the country today (July 17) until tomorrow.

The mission is composed of the following:  Edible Arrangements, Great American Cookies, Marble Slab Creamery, Panda Express, PJ’s Coffee, Pretzelmaker, Russo’s New York Pizzeria, Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, World of Beer, Wow Cafe, Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems, RadioShack, Title Boxing Club, and Tutor Doctor.

“Representatives of these companies will meet with prospective Philippine master franchisees on July 18 to introduce the franchise concepts and to discuss opportunities for opening the businesses in the Philippines,” the US Embassy said.

Citing the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA), the US Embassy said that while there are many new players, the bulk or 70 percent of foreign food franchises in the country are of US origin.

This, it noted, shows that the local market has preference for American brands.

The franchise delegation is part of the three trade missions organized by the US Embassy in the Philippines this year amid interest from American firms to do business in the country.