Philippine-based Figaro coffee eyes expansion in Southeast Asia

[pioneer]

The founder of Philippines coffee chain Figaro is looking for regional partners to expand into South East Asian nations where the coffee culture is not yet strong.

CEO and president Pacita Juan grew a single cafe in Manila into the Figaro Coffee Company.

By the end of this year, the chain will have 75 outlets in the Philippines and two in Shanghai. The arrival of Starbucks knocked Figaro from first place to second in the coffee market, but it retains a 30% market share and plans to add 20 stores a year over the next five years.

Juan is looking at more opportunities in China, along with Singapore and other regions to drive up revenues.

“We’re looking for partners overseas because we believe local knowledge is important,” she said.

Juan is in Sydney for the APEC business forum and her story features in today’s Australian Financial Review.

Through a foundation set up by her company, Juan aims to revitalise the Philippines coffee industry and its distinctive Barako bean.

“We would like higher taxes on imported coffee to further speed up our work with farmers so the coffee industry will be vibrant again,” she said.

source: www.insideretailing.com.au