Women entrepreneurs are Rufo’s Famous Tapa franchisees

MANILA, Philippines -Connie Blanco and Carina Barias are two women who have comfortably adjusted to their dual roles as mothers and entrepreneurs. In fact, they have been doing an exceptional job operating their Rufo’s Famous Tapa franchise in SaintBenilde, part of a rapidly growing restaurant chain.

Connie and Carina have known each other for as long as they can remember. Both are financial planners, doting mothers and devoted wives to their husbands.

Seeing the success of their first venture together — a cozy pizza place in Tagaytay frequented by families — the two decided to look for another avenue where they can put their great chemistry and knack for business to good use.

Soon, they found themselves on the same table as Paul Izon Reyes, president of Rufo’s Famous Tapa, as they explored franchising options.

“Since we launched our franchise program, we have been overwhelmed by inquiries from interested parties wanting to be part of the Rufo’s family.  Aside from existing branches in Retiro, UST, Timog, Makati Ave., Eastwood, Las Pinas, Macapagal Ave., Vito Cruz, Shaw, McKinley Hill and selected SM malls, expect to see more stores within the next few months,” Reyes states.

“We heard about Rufo’s through my sons who frequent the original store in Makati,” says Connie.  “And we know it offers Filipino foods that are reasonably priced which means high-volume sales’.”

What sealed the deal for Connie and Carina, however, was the company’s solid franchise program that includes 24/7 support and a built-in system that helps franchisees transition smoothly into the business.

Recently at the 2013 Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Awards, Rufo’s bagged the Fastest Growing Franchise and Best in Franchise Support, a validation of the company’s unyielding commitment to its franchisees; and for Connie and Carina, the two awards confirm that they were on the right track with Rufo’s.

Operating a 24/7 restaurant, as Connie and Carina found out, has various challenges.“It’s a continuous learning process for us,” they say.

Their restaurant continues to get repeat customers looking for Rufo’s signature Beef Tapas well as liempo, sizzling chicken sisig, tinola, bulalo, boneless bangus and pork chops.

Rufo’s Saint Benilde is located at the University Pad Building, Pablo Ocampo St., Malate Manila, 522-0936. 

For information, call 477-6652, visit www.rufos.com.ph or add rufosfamoustapa on Facebook and Twitter.