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In September 2004, GMB Franchise Developers joined Planters Development Bank, then headed by its president Ambassador Jesus Tambunting, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), under then-Secretary Cesar Purisima, to help Filipino MSMEs learn how to choose and run a franchise. The free franchise seminar for MSMEs was one of the early ways GMB Franchise Developers shared its know-how with first-time entrepreneurs.
“Transform Your Life”: the 2004 franchise seminar
The seminar was called “Transform Your Life: Selecting, Negotiating and Operating a Franchise.” It was free to attend and was promoted alongside Asia Food Expo 2004 at the World Trade Center, with AFFI and GMB Franchise Developers named on the banner.
Inside the room, a Planters Development Bank banner hung behind the speakers, who took turns at the DTI podium. Beside them stood the GMB Franchise Developers standee with our promise: “Your Expansion, Our Commitment.”
Why a bank, the government and a franchise consultant worked together
Each partner brought something MSMEs need: a bank, a government agency that supports small business, and a franchise consultant. The goal was simple: help more Filipinos start businesses the right way, by knowing how to select a franchise, negotiate its terms and operate it well.
The “Franchising in the Philippines” CD
Participants went home with a yellow CD: Franchising in the Philippines, 600 Franchises Articles and Tips, the 2004 edition produced by GMB Franchise Developers. A DVD edition followed in 2006, titled “It’s Your Decision!!!”, listing franchisors for those looking for a business.
The mission hasn’t changed
GMB Franchise Developers was founded in 1993 by Butz Bartolome, “The Franguru”. Today, after 35 years in business and 350+ brands helped from our office in Mandaluyong, we still do what we did in that 2004 seminar room: help entrepreneurs make good franchise decisions.
- Thinking of franchising your own business? Start with our guide to franchising your business in the Philippines.
- See how one homegrown brand did it: the Potato Corner franchise story.
- Learn about our franchise development services and how to choose a franchise consultant.
Talk to us
Book a free consultation. Message us on Messenger or WhatsApp, or contact us.