Philippines-based Jollibee Foods Corporation is on track to reach 10,000 restaurants worldwide this year, with a strategic focus on expanding in North America. The company plans to invest PHP18-21 billion (US$312-364 million) to open up to 800 new outlets in 2025.
As of last year, Jollibee operated 9,766 locations globally.
Jollibee, widely recognized for its signature fried chicken chain, continues its North American growth push. “We’re not in all 50 states [in the U.S.]. We’re in only maybe 15 states,” said Richard Shin, Chief Financial and Risk Officer, as quoted by Nikkei Asia.
The brand made its U.S. debut in California in 1998, and by the end of 2024, had 103 locations across the U.S. and Canada, along with 266 outlets under its other brands in North America. To accelerate its expansion, Jollibee is focusing on a franchise-driven growth model in the region.
Jollibee reported a 17.7% increase in net profit for 2024, reaching PHP10.3 billion, driven by strong revenue growth from new store openings and acquisitions. For 2025, the company forecasts 8% to 12% growth in system-wide sales, covering both company-owned and franchised locations, while targeting up to 8% expansion in its store network.
Beyond organic growth, Jollibee has pursued an active acquisition strategy to strengthen its global presence. The company recently acquired South Korea’s Compose Coffee, took full ownership of Hong Kong’s Tim Ho Wan, and added Taiwan’s Moon Moon to its portfolio.
Jollibee also holds stakes in several well-known international brands, including China’s Yonghe King and U.S. brands Smashburger and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
With an ambitious expansion plan and strategic investments, Jollibee continues to solidify its position as a major player in the global fast-food industry.
