Written by: Kenneth M. del Rosario
Duck Donuts, the beloved North Carolina-based donut franchise renowned for its warm, made-to-order donuts, has officially landed in the Philippines. The first Philippine store, located in Angono St., Makati City (near Makati City Hall), is a milestone for the brand as it is the biggest among its over 160 locations in 12 countries.
Duck Donuts made a name for itself and gained a solid following because of the fun way to make the donuts. Here, they allow customers to choose their coatings and toppings, creating their unique flavor combinations.
Another thing that sets the brand apart is its use of cake-like-textured donuts that are denser and fluffier than yeast-raised donuts.
The Makati store features a family-friendly environment where customers can watch their donuts being made fresh on the spot. Seasonal flavors and innovative combinations such as maple icing with bacon are always a hit.
The Philippine franchise is owned and operated by Bravo Best Foods Corporation, one of the country’s largest food service companies. Bravo Best Foods Corporation CEO Edilberto “Bert” Bravo shared his enthusiasm for introducing Duck Donuts to the Filipino market.
“We’re very proud to have brought these unique, customizable donuts to our country,” said Bravo during the grand opening. “I saw the potential of Duck Donuts when I first heard about it from my colleagues in California. We look forward to opening more locations so we can continue to support Filipino families and contribute to the country’s economic growth.”
Marcel Portmann, Duck Donuts’ Chief Development Officer, expressed gratitude to Bravo Foods for their commitment to the brand.
“We are thankful to Bravo Best Foods for believing in our vision. The Makati store, at 360 square feet, is our largest location globally, and we hope it’s just the beginning of our expansion across the Philippines,” he said.
A warm welcome in Makati
The grand opening in late June was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by over 100 guests, including local officials, business leaders, and members of the diplomatic community.
Gracing the event was Congressman Luis Campos, Jr., the District Representative for Makati City’s 2nd District, who welcomed Duck Donuts to Makati on behalf of Mayor Abby Binay.
US Ambassador to the Philippines, Mary Kay Carlson, also attended the event, highlighting the significance of this new venture in fostering economic and cultural exchanges between the US and the Philippines. Carlson welcomed Duck Donuts as a new partner in prosperity between the US and the Philippines. She believes the brand is a perfect fit for the Philippine taste for sweet treats, especially during the meryenda afternoon snack time.
The opening event also featured a discussion on the broader impact of franchising. Bravo highlighted the benefits of franchising for job creation and economic development. “Franchising is a powerful tool for economic growth. It allows local entrepreneurs to bring in successful international brands while creating jobs and supporting local communities,” he said.
Expansion plans
The Makati location is just the first step in Duck Donuts’ ambitious plans for the Philippines. Bravo Foods Corp. has signed an agreement to open 25 Duck Donuts locations across the country over the next six years. The second store is set to open in the Ayala Circuit Mall in July, continuing the brand’s expansion in Metro Manila.
Portmann also hinted at further customization options that could cater to local tastes and occasions, such as adding more Filipino flavors in the mix, such as ube and buko pandan, which is sure to strengthen its appeal even more.
Aside from donuts, the brand also offers delicious hot and iced coffee, as well as breakfast options.
Duck Donuts’ expansion into the Philippines is part of its broader international growth strategy. The brand recently opened a location in Bangkok, Thailand, and is planning future launches in Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Australia, and the UK.
As Duck Donuts continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its mission of delivering smiles through warm, delicious, made-to-order donuts, and exceptional customer service. The opening in Makati marks a significant milestone in the brand’s journey, promising a sweet new chapter in the US-Philippines partnership.
Duck Donuts is ready to become a favorite spot for Filipinos looking to enjoy a sweet treat, with the promise of quality, customization, and a delightful experience every time.
ADVT.