Franchising

Jollibee launches franchising

Photo: Jollibee

March 14, 2025

Chicken chain Jollibee has launched its first franchising program. The brand is seeking multi-unit franchisees who bring operational experience and development capabilities, according to a press release.

Jollibee, based in the Philippines, is part of Jollibee Foods Corporations, which has 19 brands with more than 9,500 stores across 32 countries.

"Jollibee brings a special warmth and hospitality to the QSR landscape in North America – it's a unique element that our brand is very proud of, and we are even more proud to provide that joyful dining experience that you won't find anywhere else," said Maribeth Dela Cruz, Business Group Head, Honeybee Foods Corporation dba Jollibee. "Franchise candidates have the opportunity to build upon 47 years of expansion and usher in a new era for Jollibee."

Jollibee has established a U.S. subsidiary, JBM LLC, to operate its U.S. franchise program. JBM is currently vetting potential franchisees with strong restaurant operations experience and will soon be awarding franchises in both existing and new markets.

Under the new franchise program, JBM will be offering a range of ownership opportunities to fit various locations and business needs. Qualified candidates will be able to choose from stand-alone buildings with or without drive-thru, strip mall endcaps, urban storefronts and exterior mall entrances. Jollibee is also open to exploring opportunities in other high-traffic locations, like airports, transit hubs, food courts and college campuses with the right experienced operators.

Jollibee opened its first North American location in 1998 in Daly City, California. The brand currently operates 76 stores spanning 14 states in the U.S. and 28 stores in Canada, with a goal of 350 stores across both countries in the next couple of years.