BRANDS are considering expanding their Philippine footprint through franchising, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.
In separate social media posts, the DTI said it met with representatives from Thai groups Tiptari Co. Ltd. and ZEN Corp. Group Public Co. Ltd. to discuss possible expansion.
The discussions with Tiptari centered around its ChaTraMue brand’s expansion plans in the Philippines, it said.
“The meeting underscored ChaTraMue’s rapid growth since its 2023 entry, plans to expand beyond Metro Manila, and its strategy to grow through franchising and product distribution,” it added.
ChaTraMue currently operates 14 Philippine outlets.
“The company also expressed interest in expanding its franchising network and identifying local partners for ready-to-drink beverages and ice cream products,” it added.
Meanwhile, ZEN Group, which operates Khiang Restaurant, discussed plans to expand its Thai and Japanese dining concepts in the Philippines, it said.
“Khiang currently operates two branches in Metro Manila, (while) additional outlets are scheduled to open in 2026,” it added. — Justine Irish D. Tabile

