A Jollibee store at Coop Rach Mieu in HCM City. — VNS File Photo

HCM CITY (Biz Hub) — Jollibee has begun franchising in Viet Nam, marking a new strategy in the country for the Philippine fast food chain.

A five-year franchise contract, estimated to cost VND4.5-5 billion (US$200,500-223,000), will see Jollibee advise on staff training, restaurant layout, equipment, raw materials and others. Franchisees will also benefit from the company's marketing activities.

Tran Thi Lan Anh, deputy chairwoman of Jollibee Food Corporation and general manager of Jollibee Viet Nam, said the company would have 73 of its stores nation-wide by the end of this year, up from 69 now.

Founded in 1975 as a single ice cream parlour in Manila, Jollibee is today the flagship brand of a family-run empire that spanning 12 brands and 3,000 locations around the world. — VNS