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What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant 
Berjaya Food Berhad, the powerhouse behind brands like Starbucks and Kenny Rogers, will invest $1.5 million to introduce South Korean bakery giant Paris Baguette to the Philippine market, with the first café set to launch by year's end.
After gaining global recognition with over 4,000 stores worldwide, Paris Baguette is now focusing on expanding its presence in Southeast Asia, with the Philippines being its latest target market.
Berjaya Food, alongside Middle Trade Inc. and Paris Baguette Singapore, recently signed a master franchise agreement, allowing them to introduce the Paris Baguette brand in the local market this year. Berjaya Food and Middle Trade Inc. will act as the primary operators in the Philippines.
Dato' Sydney Quays, the Group CEO of Berjaya Food Berhad, has revealed that they aim to launch the first Paris Baguette café in the country during the fourth quarter of 2023.
On average, the company plans to allocate around $300,000 for each store, though the final amount will depend on the store's size and location. Quays mentioned that after the first store opens, they aim to establish five stores within the first year of operations.
When asked about the estimated total cost for the five stores, Quays stated that the ballpark figure of $1.5 million appeared to be accurate. However, he emphasized that the success of the initial stores would influence their decision on whether to open more locations in the following years.
Initially, Paris Baguette will focus on the capital region but may consider expanding to other provinces. Quays explained that they are exploring potential locations, although it is too early to provide specific details. The company aims to open its first store within six months, with discussions underway with larger shopping malls.
The expansion of Paris Baguette in the Philippines signifies Berjaya Food's commitment to bringing renowned international brands to the local market and satisfying the growing demand for quality bakery products.
