CEBU CITY – The Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) concluded its 2-day biggest regional franchise expo dubbed as "Franchise Negosyo Para sa Region VII (Cebu)” with more than 60 exhibitors and 200+ brands at the Mountain Wing Atrium, SM Seaside City Cebu, August 1 to August 2 that offered opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs to explore legitimate investment opportunities and connect with established franchisors.
"Cebu's sustained economic growth and its position as a gateway to the Visayas make it an ideal location for franchise expansion. I strongly call for inclusive economic growth through regional franchising,” PFA Chairman Chris Lim, CFE, said in his opening statement at the opening ceremonies.
The show featured a wide range of successful franchise brands and allied suppliers to help with a comprehensive business setup. Attendees also participated in insightful activities like seminars and forums at the side area.
A free seminar on "How to Invest in the Right Franchise" for prospective franchisees and a forum on "Expanding Your Business Through Franchising" featuring two esteemed PFA Member Franchisors and a paid seminar on "How to Franchise Your Business" was held on August 2, at the Summit Galleria Hotel. The seminar was for thriving homegrown businesses in the region wanting to expand their brand through franchising.
Lim expressed his gratitude to partners, including chambers, brands, DTI, and government entities, for their support in franchising, which has generated 2 million jobs in the Philippines and many more in the Visayas region, particularly in Cebu.
“Cebu is a key market for brand growth in the Visayas and PFA commits to host more events in Cebu to educate and support local brands in expanding nationally and internationally, brands like Mister Steve Benitez's Host Coffee and others, are poised for future international growth,” Lim said.
Other local brands such as Island souvenirs, Joni, and Lisa, are also noted for their growth and potential to expand internationally. The collective effort to support local brands is seen as a way to make Filipino and Cebuano brands successful on the global stage, he added.
Lim highlighted the significant contribution of franchising to job creation, noting that it has generated two million jobs across the Philippines. The Visayas region, particularly Cebu, has seen thousands of jobs created by franchises, with each new franchise creating 10 to 20 new jobs in localities. Cebu is identified as a key market for brands looking to grow in the Visayas region, emphasizing its importance in the franchising landscape, Lim noted.
Cebu City mayor Nestor Archival recognized franchising as a vital driver of the city's investment and entrepreneurship ecosystem while Atty. Richard Aban, Division Chief of the SME Development Division of DTI-7 emphasized the vital role of franchising in empowering MSMEs and driving regional development.
SM Seaside City Cebu Mall manager, John Brian Tan echoed SM's continued commitment to supporting business development, promoting inclusive growth and fostering a thriving business environment in Cebu.
Aside from the activities open to the public, PFA held a "Kamustahan", an exclusive activity for PFA Cebu-based members on August 2, to provide a networking venue for PFA Cebu-based members and the PFA Board of Trustees and Officers who supported the event.
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