A taste of franchise success

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino family dining expert and top grill destination Congo Grille earned its first taste of franchise success with the grand opening of its first franchise-operated outlet in Araneta Center, Quezon City.

After remaining company-owned for 10 years until it launched its franchise business opportunities last year, the reigning “Sisig King” finally awarded its first franchise outlet to 59-year-old Filipino-Chinese restaurateur, Rosendo Uy.

Uy, who first ventured into automotive spare parts manufacturing, importation of motorcycle spare parts, and recently into retail food selling, admitted he was practically lured into the business by his personal guest experience at Congo Grille.

“Because it has family-oriented, wholesome ambiance and proven business track record, I immediately inquired and filed my application when it finally opened for franchising last year. I was extremely honored when I was welcomed as Congo Grille’s first franchise operator,” Uy said.

The launching of the 232-square meter branch, according to Congo Grille assistant manager for sales and marketing Carla Villanueva, is a momentous step for the company as it attempts to reach its projected commercial expansion plans. “The opening of our first franchise store is significant. It opened doors not only for Uy but also unleashed our growth potential,” she said. 

Apart from implementing company marketing campaigns, Uy also lined up plans to initiate his own in-store promos, like giving customers free desserts for every minimum food orders and loyalty cards. These, he said, are created to ensure the satisfaction and continued patronage of customers. 

“As a premier restaurant, Congo Grille-Araneta promises to excite diners with the way they are accustomed to, a smorgasbord of signature food varieties, that are served hot, fresh and fast,” said Uy. “Our staffs are highly efficient, just as we are readied by the company’s extensive hands-on training in systematic store operations,” he mused. 

Famous for its uniquely inventive, wholesome dining appeal, Villanueva said the company, in view of better economic times, expects to drive in more customers to its new franchise outlet, particularly shoppers and groups like families and friends who would travel for special celebrations like birthdays and night outs. “With our company slowly but surely building stronger partnerships with franchisees, Congo Grille is stemming fruitfully and positively going in the right direction,” she added.

Since its initial operations in 1999, Congo Grille has managed to keep abreast with competition by continuously updating its standards and products to the latest trends and demand of clients.