Cebu's homegrown coffee powerhouse, Bo's Coffee, is brewing an ambitious international growth plan as it approaches a significant milestone. The company is set to open stores in two additional Middle East countries this year and is laying the groundwork for its highly anticipated entry into the Canadian market.
Global Ambitions: From the Middle East to North America
Ivy Theresa Benatiro, the vice president for global franchise and franchise operations, revealed the expansion strategy. Building on its established presence in Qatar and Dubai, the brand will soon plant its flag in two more nations within the Middle East region. This move is part of a broader push to extend its international footprint, with Canada firmly in its sights for the near future.
Benatiro emphasized that the expansion is more than just a business venture; it's a mission to share Filipino culture. "Wherever we will be, we will be bringing the resilience of the Filipinos and the hope of the Cebuanos," she stated. This global push coincides with the brand's preparation to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades of serving coffee and community.
Deepening Roots at Home in Cebu and Beyond
While reaching across oceans, Bo's Coffee remains deeply committed to its Philippine roots. The company continues to grow its domestic presence through innovative store formats and initiatives that engage local communities. A prime example is the recent launch of the Visayas leg of its "Brews and Beads" campaign in Cebu City, timed with the vibrant Sinulog festival. This campaign artfully blends local craft and coffee culture, showcasing Cebuano artistry.
Cebu retains its strategic importance as the brand's operational heart and a key driver of nationwide growth. Benatiro cites the province's robust coffee culture, expanding consumer base, and rising disposable income as critical factors. The data supports this focus: the Philippines holds the title of the second-largest coffee consumer in Asia, trailing only Japan. Approximately 80% of Filipinos drink coffee, averaging 2.5 cups per day. In Cebu City alone, this passion is evident with an estimated one coffee shop for every 5,000 residents.
The Philippine Coffee Landscape: A Thirst for Local Beans
The nation's love for coffee, however, faces a supply challenge. Industry figures highlight a significant gap between local production and consumption. The Philippine Coffee Board Inc. estimates annual consumption at around 200,000 metric tons (MT). In stark contrast, domestic output only ranges between 20,000 MT and 30,000 MT annually. According to the Department of Agriculture, the country produces just 38.1 percent of its total coffee bean requirements, relying heavily on imports to satisfy the massive local demand.
Bo's Coffee's dual strategy of international expansion and local community engagement positions it uniquely. It aims to carry the taste of Cebu to the world while continuing to cultivate and celebrate the rich coffee culture at its source, navigating the opportunities and challenges within the dynamic Philippine coffee industry.
