Jollibee ramps up Canada expansion

MANILA, Philippines — Homegrown fast-food giant Jollibee is ramping up its expansion in Canada, targeting to nearly double its footprint over the next five years.

Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) said its North American Jollibee franchisor has signed a multi-unit development agreement for British Columbia that would accelerate the brand’s franchise-led expansion in Canada.

The agreement, signed in July with an experienced multi-brand food retail operator, provides for the development of 16 restaurants over the next five years.

JFC said the franchisee brings extensive experience in restaurant operations and multi-unit development, supporting the brand’s long-term growth ambitions in one of Canada’s key markets.

The agreement follows the 10-store multi-unit development agreement for the Edmonton market which was signed last June.

Together, JFC said these agreements represent 26 committed franchise restaurants, complementing Jollibee’s existing network of 28 company-operated restaurants in Canada.

Jollibee’s Canadian footprint is expected to grow to 54 restaurants over the next five years, providing a strong foundation for continued expansion across Canada.

Richard Shin, Jollibee Group chief financial and risk officer and Jollibee Group International chief executive officer, said Canada continues to be an attractive growth market for Jollibee, supported by strong consumer demand, strong brand relevance and increasing interest from experienced franchise operators.

”This latest agreement reflects the growing appeal of the Jollibee brand and our confidence in the long-term opportunity in Canada,” Shin said.

“As we continue to expand through disciplined franchising, we remain focused on partnering with operators who share our commitment to operational excellence, sustainable growth and building scale in priority markets,” he said.

JFC said it continues to see strong franchise interest across Canada and remains engaged with prospective partners across multiple provinces.