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Breville names a Filipino barista champion as their brand ambassador


Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo

Even though the Philippines is located in the “Bean Belt,” an equatorial region made up of the world’s largest coffee-growing nations, it is still lagging behind the rise of a revolutionary movement that is redefining the Filipino people’s relationship to a cup of coffee.

However, there is still time for this country to solidly establish its own coffee culture, in which the vast majority of people, if not all of them, have a general understanding and appreciation of this beloved beverage in addition to their strong familiarity with, exposure to, and use of the available technologies in the market to make a cup of coffee.

With this in mind, IAJ Wellness Corporation (IAJWC), the exclusive distributor of Breville in the Philippines, has officially signed up multi-awarded barista and famed content creator Vanessa Maclang Caceres as the country’s ambassadress of the leading small kitchen appliances brand from Australia.

Impressed by the rich and mature coffee culture of various countries, IAJWC President Cris Llamo dreams of replicating such trends locally, where Filipinos do not merely drink coffee but dive deep into the art and appreciation of its unique flavors and origins.

“Hence, our partnership is aimed at raising more awareness on coffee culture and appreciation in the country,” she said during their contract signing held recently in Makati City.

“We want to be in the forefront of educating the people about Third Wave Coffee. That’s why we really want Vanessa to become our ambassadress because her vast knowledge of the industry will be of big help to elevate the peoples’ understanding of specialty coffee,” added Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Food & Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager at Breville Philippines.

Being an ambassadress, Ms. V (her online monicker) or Mamita (as fondly called by her colleagues) will mainly help promote the brand’s coffee category, plus other kitchen appliances through her social media contents. With her new role, she will also work closely with the brand in equipping the frontliners, which include promo merchandisers, with the most up-to-date knowledge about specialty coffee in order for them to effectively sell Breville products to customers.

“Transfer of knowledge should not go wrong. We want to make sure that our people who interact with the customers are saying the right things about coffee and how best to enjoy it using Breville products. So it’s important to have somebody like Ms. Vanessa, who’s been in the industry for a long time—19 years to be exact. There’s a wealth of information and experience that we can learn from her,” Llamo said.

“Through her hands-on training, we also believe that we will be able to foster a deeper appreciation for Breville products, especially the espresso machine category,” Flores added.

Elated by their confidence, Caceres is very thankful of their partnership. She quipped: “I’m happy that they trust me with this partnership. I’m really grateful to train their frontliners and share my knowledge on Third Wave Coffee to other people.”


Breville Philippines’ PR Agency Partner CatPR Head Nadine Tan, Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo

Breville Philippines started to tap her in March 2023 for Women’s Month using the Breville Bambino Plus. Little did she know that her first encounter with this small espresso machine would make her a firm believer and, eventually, ambassadress of the brand. She said: “It’s not like other similar products, wherein everyone can pull a shot of espresso. No one can do steamed milk that is much better than Breville.”

Caceres adores the company because of its vast assortment of inventive goods that not only solve the difficulties involved in brewing coffee, but also handle issues related to the entire kitchen. Their functionalities and designs complement one another, meeting the needs of every customer.

Despite Breville’s premium brand positioning, the endless possibilities it offers purchasers make it well worth the expense. It seems sense that Vanessa now always has it in the kitchen.

“It’s really a part of my daily life. Once you have it in your kitchen, you cannot stop using it. That’s why you really get your money’s worth,” she stressed.

June 13, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

The Jollibee Group Backs the Waste Recovery Campaign of LLDA


Partnership for the Planet. The Jollibee Group has pledged support to the LLDA’s waste recovery program to help mitigate the adverse effects of plastic waste on Laguna de Bay. Photo by LLDA.

By sponsoring environmentally conscious initiatives like the Laguna Lake Development Authority’s (LLDA) “Abot-Kamay Para sa Laguna de Bay: Mission in Action–Solid Waste Recovery,” the Jollibee Group is demonstrating its continued commitment to environmental stewardship.

In observance of Earth Day 2024, the LLDA carried out a solid waste collection operation in Barangay Sucat, Muntinlupa City, on April 30, 2024. This year’s Earth Day, with the theme “Planet vs. Plastics,” called for more worldwide awareness and initiatives to cut plastic manufacturing by 60%. The LLDA has continuously backed these kinds of environmental projects and concentrated on reducing the negative impacts that plastic waste has on Laguna de Bay and the ecosystems that surround it.

“The Abot-Kamay campaign not only exemplifies a localized response to a global crisis but also serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a cleaner and healthier Laguna de Bay for future generations,” said LLDA Acting General Manager Atty. Senando Santiago.

The Jollibee Group sent employee-volunteers from select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King to participate in the said waste recovery activity. In addition, the Company also provided meals to all 200 volunteers from different organizations.

Pepot Miñana Jr., Jollibee Group Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer, underscored the importance of the Company’s active participation in these initiatives as a manifestation of its global sustainability agenda called Joy for Tomorrow: “As stewards of our environment, we recognize that our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the confines of our facilities, and requires collective action from all stakeholders. Participating in lake clean-up drives is a tangible expression of our dedication to preserving natural resources and safeguarding the communities we serve. This collaboration with local organizations and the government amplifies our impact and cultivates a shared sense of responsibility for our planet.”


Jollibee Group Employee Volunteers. Some 100 employee-volunteers from Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King joined the clean-up of Laguna de Bay in Sucat, Muntinlupa City. The Jollibee Group also provided meals for all the 200 volunteers from different organizations.
 

Employee volunteers for the planet

Fostering a behavior of shared responsibility for the environment is an essential part of Jollibee Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Since 2023, the Jollibee Group, through its corporate development arm the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc., has implemented a mangrove reforestation program with a string of tree-planting activities held in several coastal provinces.

In Lemery, Batangas, and along the coastlines of Alaminos, Pangasinan, and Carmen, Cebu, more than 200 employee-volunteers from the company’s operations, manufacturing, and logistics divisions—which include the brands Jollibee, Greenwich, and Red Ribbon—planted 2,250 mangrove propagules and 1,700 mangrove seedlings.

Employees of the Jollibee Group and local JGF implementation partners planted about 1,400 mangrove propagules at the Bued Mangrove Ecopark in Alaminos, Pangasinan, on May 9, 2024.


Beyond Spreading Joy. Jollibee Group employee-volunteers signed their pledge of dedication in support of LLDA’s solid waste recovery program. Many employees of the Jollibee Group are active ambassadors of the planet, actively participating in various initiatives that help protect the environment.

The Jollibee Group will keep encouraging staff volunteerism to assist different environmental preservation and protection programs and activities in the future.

“We hope that through employee volunteerism and engagement, we can inspire more partners and customers worldwide to embrace environmental stewardship and create changes that will positively impact the people and the planet,” Miñana added.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

June 10, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

All Four of the Jollibee Group’s Manufacturing Locations Have Completed Clean Energy Integration


Moving forward with clean energy. Leaders from the Jollibee Group and First Gen Corporation have culminated the four-site solar project at the Jollibee Worldwide Services-Logistics plant last May 6. In attendance were (L-R)  Michael Ong, Jollibee Group’s Vice President and Head of Supply Chain; Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee Group’s Chief Business Officer; Hon. Eric Olivarez, Mayor of Parañaque City; Hon. Maria Kristine Esplana, District 2 City Councilor; Vincent Martin Villegas, First Gen Corporation’s Senior Vice President and Pi Energy’s Chief Operating Officer; Atty. Voltaire dela Cruz, City Administrator; and Ashley Antonio, Jollibee Group’s Vice President and Head of Logistics.

The Jollibee Group has installed almost 16,800 solar panels at its four primary manufacturing locations in the Philippines, demonstrating how serious it is about using renewable energy.

This solar energy project, which the Jollibee Group and First Gen Corporation collaborated on, was completed on May 6 with a switch-on ceremony at the Jollibee Group’s logistics center in Parañaque City.


The Jollibee Group partnered with First Gen Corporation to install over 16,800 solar panels that generate over 9 megawatts of solar power at four of its key supply chain facilities. The fourth and final site (in photo) was completed last May 6 at the Jollibee Group’s C3 facility in Laguna.

“This is a significant milestone in our sustainability journey at the Jollibee Group. These initiatives are more than just technological advancement, but more importantly a shared commitment to preserving our planet and furthering our collective responsibility to create a more sustainable future,” said Michael Ong, Jollibee Group Vice President and Head of Supply Chain.

The shift to renewable energy for supply chain first materialized in November 2023 with the powering up of the Jollibee Group’s Zen3 facility in Canlubang, Laguna. Continuing its commitment, the Jollibee Group then added clean energy options to its largest manufacturing site, the Canlubang Baking Facility (CBF). The two solar projects have combined capacity of 5.05 Megawatts.

Rounding out the list are two newly solar-energized sites: Jollibee Worldwide Services-Logistics (JWS-L) in Parañaque and the C3 manufacturing site in Laguna, which have a combined energy capacity of 4.05 megawatts.


Jollibee Group’s state of the art JWS-L site in Parañaque City is the third plant to incorporate solar power as one of its energy sources this year with the installation of 2,100 solar panels.

All four manufacturing facilities can reduce their power consumption from the grid with a combined average of approximately 15 percent a year, a significant step towards a greener future. 

The use of renewable energy in Jollibee Group’s manufacturing sites are part of the Company’s global sustainability agenda called, Joy for Tomorrow. This sustainability agenda, which serves as the Jollibee Group’s strategic framework, treats the planet responsibly and builds a sustainable future in response to the United Nation’s urgent call to action. Under this agenda is a focus on Planet, of which energy efficiency is a priority area.

“We are pleased to have partnered with the Jollibee Group on their sustainability journey, helping them develop their capacity to generate solar energy. We look forward to continuing our partnership to help the Jollibee Group bring not just the joy of eating to consumers, but also a sustainable and regenerative future,” said Vincent Martin Villegas, First Gen Corporation senior vice president and concurrent chief operating officer of Pi Energy.

With the greatest portfolio of clean and renewable energy-powered power plants is First Gen Corporation, a division of the Lopez-led conglomerate First Philippine Holdings Corporation (FPH).

In addition to renewable energy, the Jollibee Group continues to focus on packaging sustainability and waste reduction for all of its businesses.

June 5, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

The JGF-ASHI Partnership Advances the Agro-Entrepreneurship Path of Filipino Farmers


The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) has partnered with microfinance institution Ahon Sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI) since 2013. In 2022, one of the farmer groups supported by ASHI, AGAP (ASHI Grameen Agricultural Program) became the first group in Luzon to have delivered various vegetables directly to Chowking branches in Laguna. Angel Dorado, ASHI’s Business Development Department Head said this progress is attributable to the change in mindset among the AGAP farmers.
 

According to 2021 data issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Filipino farmers continue to be among the poorest in the nation, with roughly one in three of them living below the poverty line.

The World Bank stated in 2022 that enhancing farmers’ access to financial services and markets is essential to raising their standard of living.

Through its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP), the Jollibee Group Foundation, the social development arm of the Jollibee Group, has pledged to improve the lives of smallholder farmers in the nation in response to the appeal to assist Filipino farmers. In order to assist smallholder farmers in transitioning from producers to agro-entrepreneurs capable of supplying corporate markets like the Jollibee Group, the FEP brings together stakeholders from many sectors.

“JGF has always been focused on pursuing innovative solutions that will make a lasting impact on the communities we serve and ensure food security and access. As we envision every Filipino family having food on the table alongside our goal to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’ Zero Hunger (SDG 2), we find it important to uplift the lives of our smallholder farmers, the very people who bring food to our table,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson.  

To do this, the Foundation partners with various institutions that assist and advise farmers in every step of their agro-entrepreneurship journey to increase and maintain a steady income. To facilitate this assistance, FEP introduced the Agro-Enterprise Clustering Approach (AECA), which aims to achieve inclusive agricultural productivity by guiding cooperative and associations in the country in the clustering and collective marketing of their agri products.

Microfinance institution Ahon Sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI) is among JGF’s reliable partners. ASHI became an FEP partner in 2013, and they saw AECA as an opportunity to assist more farmers by combining it with their financing services.

Financial Goals

Arnolfo Pan, Area Manager of ASHI Grameen Agricultural Program (AGAP) Luzon, has been with ASHI for 20 years and has been part of FEP for 12 years now.

“Dahil sa FEP, na-encourage ako lalo matuto ng farming. Natuto ako mag-marketing at magkaroon ng negosyo at mag-set ng financial goals (I was encouraged to learn more about farming. I also learned to do marketing, have a business, and set financial goals because of this program).”

Taking a holistic approach to empowering farmers, ASHI also improves the capability of its farmer-beneficiaries through training, consultations, and seminars that aim to boost their confidence as entrepreneurs. ASHI now combines financing and non-financing services, including financial literacy training, values formation, farmer organizing activities, and linkage to markets to empower the farmers to become self-sufficient while being proactive members of their clusters. 

Like FEP, ASHI also hopes to give the farmers a better grasp of the demands and makings of the institutionalized farmers market and the capacity to empower other smallholder farmers needing assistance.  

“Bilang anak ng isang magsasaka, tumutulong rin akong magturo ng makabagong agricultural practices sa ibang tao. Isa sa mga naituro ko sa iba kong kapamilya at mga ASHI members ay kung paano paangatin pa ang buhay nilang magsasaka upang maging farmer entrepreneur, at kung paano makakatulong sakanila ang ASHI dahil hindi nalang pa-lending ang ginagawa namin (As a farmer’s son, I also help educate people on new agricultural practices. One of the many things I shared with my family and my co-ASHI members is how to improve their livelihood as farmers by becoming a farmer entrepreneur. And how ASHI can help them transition to one as we offer other farmer support besides financial assistance),” Pan added. 


Empowering farmers. Taking a holistic approach to empowering farmers, ASHI now combines financing and non-financing services, including financial literacy training, values formation, farmer organizing activities, and linkage to markets to empower the farmers to become self-sufficient while being proactive members of their clusters. 
 

Farmer Entrepreneurs

In 2022, AGAP became the first group in Luzon to deliver directly to Chowking branches in Laguna.

Angel Dorado, ASHI’s Business Development Department Head, said this progress is attributable to the AGAP farmers’ mindset change.  “Pag pasok ko sa department na ito at sa FEP, new challenge para tulungan ang mga farmers. Dati mas individual sila mag-isip. Ngayon, importante na ma-develop sila into cluster na merong one goal, one dream, and one mindset (Being part of this department gave me a new challenge to help our farmers. Before, they had individual approaches to farming. Now, we needed to put them into clusters with one goal, one dream, and one mindset).”

Currently, 94% of FEP farmer groups are certified under the Philippine Good Agricultural Practices (PhilGAP), ensuring that crop production complies with food safety standards. This was made possible by the mentoring and training they received from FEP and other partner organizations.  

30 FEP farmer groups nationwide have supplied the Jollibee Group with 11 million kilograms of fresh veggies valued at over P500 million in sales as a result of these activities.

Not only do these achievements guarantee Jollibee Group a sustainable supply chain, but they also improve the lives of farmers and their families. Pan proudly stated that he used the program’s assistance to finance his nephews’ schooling, build a home, and purchase a car, among other things.

Like Dorado, the AGAP farmers have become determined to achieve and scale their business even more. “Mas lumalabas na ideas nila. Pangarap na nila na araw-araw na sila maka-deliver, na maging mas maayos pa ang samahan nila dahil  nakikita na nila ang benefit ng ginagawa natin sa kanila na mapaayos ang kanilang buhay (They now begin to think of more ideas. They also have dreams of consistently being able to deliver and to have better relations with their cluster because they now see the benefit of the program in uplifting their lives),” he said.

May 31, 2024 by
Food

Remember to leave space for dessert! Burger King and Nutella collaborate to create a new line of desserts, including the brand-new King Fusion with Nutella

BRB! Running to Burger King for the sweetest treats – who’s coming?

Dessert lovers, be prepared! The world’s most popular hazelnut spread, Nutella, ties up with Burger King, the well-known international brand best known for its Whopper, to create the all-new King Fusion with Nutella, which promises to satisfy dessert cravings like never before.

Burger King has unveiled its BK Dessert Treats with Nutella, a line of three (3) new goods that are a chocolate lover’s dream come true and are designed exclusively for people who enjoy delicious sweets. This new dessert series is fantastic whether you’re searching for the ideal way to end a dinner or just want something sweet to enjoy on a hot summer day.

The Star of the Show: King Fusion with Nutella

Building on the popularity of the BK Nutella Series, Burger King is upping the dessert game by adding the all-new King Fusion with Nutella to the line-up. This new product combines smooth, creamy soft-serve ice cream generously laced with Nutella spread and delightfully sprinkled with crunchy cookie bits – a sure way to create a textural and flavorful experience like never before!

The BK Nutella Series: A Trio of Delights

While the BK King Fusion with Nutella takes center stage, the BK Dessert Treats with Nutella offers a selection of sweet courses to satisfy everyone, no matter the cravings!

For the Classic Craver: Craving the beloved BK Sundae but with an extra kick? Get ready for a flavor explosion with BK Sundae with Nutella! This twist on the classic features rich and creamy Nutella swirled into a smooth vanilla soft serve, delivering a delightful hazelnut upgrade you won’t forget.

For the Waffle fanatic: Craving something warm and fluffy? The 2-pc BK Waffles with Nutella are your jam. These heavenly waffles with a soft and fluffy center topped with a generous drizzle of your favorite hazelnut spread, create a perfectly balanced, sweet, and satisfying treat that you can enjoy any time of the day.

For someone who always wants something extra:  Craving for a textural twist on your BK Sundae? The King Fusion with Nutella is just what you need! This special soft-serve sundae is taken to the next level with the addition of Nutella hazelnut spread and sweet, crispy cookie bits. Combining this mix of textures and nutty flavors, this dessert is simply irresistible. Just a heads up – it’s hard to resist once you try it!

Limited Time Offer: 

Indulge your sweet tooth as this trio of desserts is now offered at every BK Luzon store!

King Fusion with Nutella and 2-piece BK Waffles with Nutella will soon be available in all BK Visayas and Mindanao outlets. Get ready to indulge in dessert perfection found only at Burger King!

May 29, 2024 by
Food

Before flights, RACKS and Tenya are serving bites!

Fortunately, you now have one less problem to worry about on the day of the flight: what to eat! Travel days can be really stressful! Take a moment to say farewell over a delicious supper at Tenya or RACKS before you head off into the big wide world. Tenya and RACKS are the ideal pleasure to return home to if you are arriving. I’m so delighted that my favorite restaurants are now very easy to access and convenient, especially if you’re craving something great to eat while waiting for your flight. I’m such a huge fan of Japanese foods; that’s why I do love Tenya, as they serve authentic and delicious Japanese foods. On the other hand, RACKS, one of the OGs, always serves the delicious staple. They are now ready to serve as we head to our destinations and or as we return home from our wonderful trips.

I enjoyed eating during the launch of Racks and Tenya at NAIA Terminal 3

In NAIA Terminal 3’s Food Hall, RACKS and Tenya have opened for business! You can now pick between two more delectable stops prior to flights. Arrivals can sample their specialty staples during their welcome lunch, which is served directly in the airport.

If you are in the mood for classic American fare, family-style ribs with all the trimmings, then head over to RACKS! It’s the perfect place to have one more bonding moment with your loved ones before boarding or as soon as you arrive.


Photo from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Facebook Page
 

Is Japanese dining more your style? Are you looking for something hearty to keep you energized for your travels? Then be sure to stop at Tenya for authentic Japanese tempura. You’ll want to fill up on something succulent and delicious before you face a long plane ride.

RACKS is the perfect family restaurant for a reunion! It’s been serving ribs for over 20 years in the Philippines. Tenya is the number one tempura tendon restaurant in Japan. Together, they are a formidable new addition to the Terminal 3 Food Hall.

“These new restaurants in NAIA are a great move for us at RACKS and Tenya. We are proud that the Philippines is showcasing our food in the gateway to the globe,” said Cavallino Inc. Managing Director, Chukri Prieto.


Photo from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Facebook Pag
This new location hopes to see traffic from both Filipino and foreign travelers, balikbayans and tourists alike. RACKS and Tenya, both have long track records of proving themselves as favorites for Filipinos and will be tantalizing new options in the airport.

“We want to be where the action is and give travelers a good, reliable place to say goodbye, get ready for a flight, or even a place to welcome someone to Manila.” General Manager, Iggy Ramos said of the move.

These branches of RACKS and Tenya will feature special sections for all-day breakfast with drip coffee or tea from Twinings. There will also be a Stuff N’ Go Section with to-go items and souvenirs for anyone who needs something last minute before rushing over to their gate.

“It’s important to us that travelers have a nice place to welcome people home or see them off, all while enjoying food they know will deliver every time.” says Denise Ramos, Director for Operations.

Two trips to Japan were given away during the opening ceremony. Travelers from all over the world will soon be delighted by the meals that the invited personalities and guest the media had a fantastic time sampling. Having delicious cuisine in a convenient location when saying farewell to loved ones, welcoming them home, or just having a bite to eat will improve any traveler’s spirits, no matter how they are feeling. Enjoy your last supper at Tenya or RACKS in the L4 Food Hall at NAIA Terminal 3, or host a welcome-home reunion!

Visit www.racks.ph and www.tenya.com.ph for additional information about RACKS and Tenya. You can also follow RACKS and Tenya on Facebook at RACKS and Tenya Philippines and on Instagram at @racks.ph and @tenyaph. Additionally, Foodpanda, GrabFood, Pickaroo, and SM Malls provide RACKS and Tenya for purchase online.

May 27, 2024 by
Food, News

Employee-led Mangrove Reforestation Project is Launched by Jollibee Foods Corporation

Commits to Help Restore the Country’s Mangrove Ecosystem


Employee Volunteerism. Employees from Jollibee North Luzon District 1 participate in a mangrove tree planting project in Alaminos City, Pangasinan.

Through the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc. (JGF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), is still driving change. JGF led a mangrove regeneration campaign that included a series of tree-planting events that took place in three coastal provinces.

Employees of JFC have planted over 4,000 mangrove trees: 1,700 saplings in Lemery, Batangas, and 2,250 mangrove propagules along the shores of Carmen, Cebu, and Alaminos, Pangasinan.


Protecting shorelines. Last year, 212 employee volunteers participated in a string of tree-planting activities. The photo shows some Jollibee employees who volunteered planting mangrove propagules in Lemery, Batangas. 
 

The reforestation project, according to JGF President Gisela Tiongson, is a component of JFC’s stepped-up efforts to further its global sustainability strategy, Joy for Tomorrow, in keeping with the goal under the Planet pillar to support responsible planet-stewardship.  

“JFC’s 45th anniversary last year marked a special milestone that inspired us to step up our effort in creating value for our stakeholders and in giving back to the environment,” said Tiongson. “Through this mangrove reforestation program, we aim to help restore the mangrove ecosystem and build a more resilient future for our fellow Filipinos living in coastal communities.”

Strengthening collaboration

JGF has collaborated with national agencies and local community partners to ensure that the mangrove planting activities are done correctly using the right species that are planted in the right site and in the right season—all these considerations are crucial in ensuring mangrove survival and propagation.


To bolster its commitment to expand its Mangrove Reforestation project in 2024, Jollibee Foods Corporation and Jollibee Group Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR). Present during the signing were (L-R) Jollibee Group Foundation’s President and Executive Director Gisela Tiongson, Jollibee Foods Corporation’s President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, and Jollibee Foods Corporation’s Vice President and Head of Public Affairs, Atty. Raul Academia. 
 
 

Tiongson recognized the support provided by DENR SCIS-Strategic Alliance and Environmental Partnership Division, DENR-Environmental Management Bureau, DENR Region 7, City Environment & Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Cebu City and Carmen, and CENRO Calaca, Batangas. “We are grateful for their assistance and for guiding us throughout the activities, as well as the People’s Organization in Cebu for the mangrove seedlings,” she said.  

Fostering employee engagement


Treating the Planet Responsibly. Zenith Foods Corporation and Red Ribbon – Mandaue City employee volunteers plant mangrove propagules in Carmen, Cebu.
 

The reforestation program was started in 2023, with over 200 employee-volunteers from Jollibee, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Zenith Foods Corporation, and Jollibee Worldwide Services Logistics. This also formed part of the Company’s engagement program for its employees and JFC’s 45th anniversary activities.

To bolster the project, JFC’s President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong and JGF’s Tiongson, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga on April 19.

Tanmantiong emphasized, “We are cognizant of the climate emergency we are in, and hence, we are taking steps to contribute to climate mitigation in the work of JGF, together with the company. To this end, we will be investing in mangrove reforestation initiatives with the help of our employee volunteers. And we will be supporting communities in mangrove management.”

In line with the MOU, JGF pledged to “extend its support to community-based mangrove protection and reforestation activities and mobilize volunteer employees to participate in the conduct of environmental programs and activities in mangrove reforestation.”

This year, JGF intends to expand the knowledge, expertise, and skill set of JFC staff members beyond their job duties by working toward establishing the initiative as an ongoing program. JGF also intends to carry out mangrove planting operations in Visayas and Mindanao under strict community control in order to further expand the nation’s mangrove ecosystem.

May 24, 2024 by
Food, News

For the third time, Jollibee Group has received the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award

Continues to be the first and only Philippine-based company to have received the global award


Global workplace consulting and research firm Gallup has once again recognized the Jollibee Group with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award. This marks the third time the homegrown restaurant company has received the accolade.

For the third time in 2024, the locally owned restaurant chain Jollibee Group has been honored with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award (GEWA). The company’s dedication to employee engagement as a key component of its business strategy is affirmed by this award. The Jollibee Group is still the only firm with its headquarters in the Philippines to have won this honor.

Over 100,000 teams worldwide, 2.7 million workers are covered by the GEWA. It honors top-tier companies that incorporate engagement into their workplace culture and is based on Gallup’s extensive and meticulous workplace survey.

“This recognition was made possible by the countless men and women of the Jollibee Group around the world who contribute and shape our uniquely joyful work culture,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our three-time recognition is timely as it comes at the heels of our best year yet in 2023: a clear manifestation that our business success is deeply interconnected with our people’s success.”

“We remain committed to helping our talents build a career where they can live out their purpose, build meaningful relationships at work, and contribute with their unique talents to our mission of bringing the joy of eating to everyone. We strive hard to make our people not only successful but also happy,” Tanmantiong added.

Gallup Chief Executive Officer Jon Clifton congratulated winning organizations for redefining what it means to be a great place to work amid continuing workplace challenges. “Your commitment to creating environments where employees are listened to, valued, and positioned to use their strengths every day is what sets you apart. Thank you for setting a new global standard in what it means to be a thriving workplace,” Clifton said.

A Joyful Work Environment

Jollibee Group’s strengthened People Agenda was key to its record business performance, which was characterized by back-to-back best-ever years in 2022 and 2023.

Earlier this year, the company defined its Employer Value Proposition “Choose Joy,” which articulates the unique experience of being a Jollibee Group employee and the company’s culture of joy built over the past 46 years.

Through its D&I vision and commitment to “Joy for All,” the Jollibee Group has also continued to elevate the importance of diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the workplace. The D&I vision aims to cultivate a more joyful and inclusive environment for the team members who power the organization as well as the customers and stakeholders who are part of the organization’s ecosystem.

Amidst the epidemic in 2020, the Jollibee Group was initially granted the GEWA. It was the first time a business with its headquarters in the Philippines has received this honor. In 2023, the company was listed as one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Best Companies and won its second GEWA award.

The Jollibee Group has also been named one of the World’s Best Employers by Forbes Magazine for three years running, from 2020 to 2022. The business was included in Forbes’ first list of the World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies in 2021.

May 22, 2024 by
Food, News

Recycling by Coca-Cola Philippines at the Panaad sa Negros Festival

Coca-Cola Philippines and its partners commemorated Earth Day by gathering 444.85 kg of PET bottles and cans between April 16 and 21 as part of the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2024 through the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) program, following a successful launch in Bacolod.

In an effort to reduce plastic waste and fight pollution, the program gives micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and owners of sari-sari stores the ability to turn their establishments into places where empty plastic bottles are collected. By gathering bottles, micro-retailers can accrue points that can be exchanged for money and merchandise for their stores.

TEM is a collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST), and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO). As of May, there are over 3,500 TEM members in the country.

This local effort aligns with The Coca-Cola Company’s global World Without Waste strategy. Globally, the company aims to collect and recycle the equivalent of each bottle and can it sells by 2030, make its primary consumer packaging recyclable by 2025, and use an average of 50% recycled material in its packaging by 2030.

TEM is a crucial component of “May Ikabobote Pa,” Coca-Cola Philippines’ consumer engagement campaign, which encourages people to recycle their empty bottles and cans. Customers may find out the closest pickup locations and further information about the company’s recycling programs by visiting the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub.

May 17, 2024 by
Food, News

Jollibee is Listed in Kuwait’s Top 10 Brands for Customer Satisfaction


Warm, joyful service. Jollibee earned another triumph with its recent inclusion in the Top 10 brands for customer satisfaction in Kuwait. The awards program by Service Hero surveyed over 500 brands in the country.   

According to the 2023 Service Hero Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards, local food chain Jollibee has been named one of Kuwait’s Top 10 Brands for Customer Satisfaction.

An annual recognition program called the Customer Service Index Awards rewards Kuwait businesses who provide outstanding customer service. It gauges important aspects of the service, like overall satisfaction, expectations, and recommendation likelihood. It also evaluates several aspects of the services, including personnel, location, value for money, staff quality, speed, and dependability. For this list, more than 500 brands in 20 categories were assessed.

“Being recognized among Kuwait’s Top 10 brands for customer satisfaction from over 500 brands is a testament to our commitment to providing customers with great-tasting food served with the warmth and joyful service that the Jollibee brand is known for. This citation is not only a badge of honor for us, but it also means we are fulfilling our promise to our customers,” said Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee Group Chief Business Officer and Head, Jollibee Global.

Meanwhile, Dennis Flores, President of Jollibee Group’s business in Europe, Middle East, and Asia, and Australia (EMEAA), congratulated the Jollibee Kuwait team and franchisee for this milestone recognition: “We celebrate this achievement with all our store and operations teams in Kuwait whose passion and dedication to our mission of serving great-tasting food and bringing the joy of eating to everyone has made this recognition possible. We are also grateful to our customers in Kuwait for their continued support and loyalty to Jollibee.”

“We extend our deepest gratitude to our franchisee Yacoub Aljajery for his steadfast belief in our brand. His hands-on approach not only ensures operational excellence, but also fosters a culture of passion and commitment, making exceptional customer service at Jollibee Kuwait possible,” Flores added.

The Jollibee Group opened the first Jollibee store in Al Watya, Kuwait City in February 2012 through franchisee Yacoub Aljajery of the Al Musaifra Catering Company. Today, Jollibee has seven stores in Kuwait, with loyal fans craving for bestselling products such Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti.

Jollibee as a franchisor of choice

“I chose Jollibee as a franchise because of its strong brand recognition, delicious menu offerings, and the opportunity to introduce Jollibee to Arab/Kuwaiti customers, which has proven to be a successful venture,” said franchisee Yacoub Aljajery. “As a franchisee, I appreciate Jollibee’s comprehensive support system, including marketing assistance, ongoing operational guidance and training programs which have been instrumental in the growth and success of our franchise operations in Kuwait.”

“Being cited as one of the Top 10 brands in Kuwait is a recognition for our dedication and hard work in upholding Jollibee’s standards and values. This award also serves as our source of pride and motivation to continue delivering exceptional service and quality to our customers in Kuwait,” he added.

Jollibee also has stores in other Middle East countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.

Recently, Jollibee has been ranked Top 5 Strongest Restaurant Brand in the World, overtaking more established Quick Service Restaurant brands, according to the latest annual brand ranking report by Brand Finance, the world’s leading independent brand valuation agency. Jollibee has elevated its rating from AA- to AAA. In addition, Jollibee is the only Philippine brand listed in the 2024 Top 25 Most Valuable Restaurant Brands and Top 10 Strongest Restaurant Brands.

The brand has also been cited as the Top 2 fastest-growing restaurant brand in the world. Surging by an impressive 51% to USD2.3 billion in brand value, Jollibee ascended from rank 20 to rank 17 in this year’s Global Restaurant Rankings.


Serving joy. The Jollibee Kuwait team has shown passion and dedication in providing exceptional customer service to customers who crave for bestsellers Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti.   

Outside of the Philippines, mainstream customers are still gravitating for Jollibee. Mainstream non-Filipino locals make up around 100% of the clientele in Vietnam and Brunei, 81% in Malaysia, 80% in the UK, 70% in Singapore, and 60% in Hong Kong. This demonstrates the brand’s attractiveness on a worldwide scale.

Jollibee Group flagship brands in the ranking

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf TM, another brand owned by the Jollibee Group, is ranked among Kuwait’s Top 10 Brands for Customer Satisfaction. In the café category, it likewise came out on top. The flagship brand for the coffee and tea industry under the Jollibee Group is CBTL.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

May 17, 2024 by