Big potentials expected for local franchise sector

While 2012 was a banner year for the Association of Filipino Franchiser’s Inc. (AFFI), its president  Armando Bartolome believes bigger potentials are ahead, as he renews the call for the business sector to patronize local franchises, an impetus in the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Last year’s record consolidated income among AFFI members P54.07 billion AFFI also registered a 17 percent increase in the number of membership, now totaling 112. At least 12 of AFFI’s brands have already expanded overseas, among them. Most of AFFI’s members which have ventured overseas are in the food business; among them Potato Corner, Sweet Corner, and Fiorgellato.

AFFI recently wrapped up its “Galing ng Pinoy: The 12th Franchise Show” participated in by a least 300 exhibitors.

Bartolome reported that 90 percent of the visitors are seriously considering acquiring a franchise, a little higher than last year.

“A majority of our members and exhibitors were able to acquire quality deals. GalingPinoy is a one-stop shop show for potential investors who are looking for stable and legitimate franchise brands. We are most delighted to have a steady increase not only in the number of exhibitors but also visitors every year,” says Bartolome.

New trends

While many food brands will sprout next year, the growth in franchising will be in the health and wellness sector, according to Bartolome.

“With more disposable income, people have also become more health conscious and are more particular about their well-being,” he adds.

The AFFI chief believes that the medical and health sectors will create a huge dent in franchising. Competition among generic homegrown drugstores will step up in the next five years.

With the ever-changing consumer demand, AFFI is ready to take on the challenge. “Ingenuity is a unique element among Filipino entrepreneurs. We will never run out of new franchise concepts to launch. There’s more to look forward to in franchising of homegrown brands.”

For 2014, AFFI is looking at an increase of 25 percent in membership.  To achieve this, says Bartolome, the organization is set to launch a campaign in Mindanao via partnerships with the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) chapters in the region.

AFFI also conducts regular franchise seminars on supplemental topics relevant to franchising and entrepreneurship.  It also assists aspiring entrepreneurs by honing their skills through educational programs, as well as linking them with financial resources.

To further increase penetration of brands in the international market, AFFI hosts a monthly mentoring and membership consultation. “Members share best practices on how they were able to successfully expand abroad and unselfishly share tips.”