How to Start a Big Brew Franchise
If you’ve been eyeing the milk tea and coffee business in the Philippines, chances are you’ve come across Big Brew. The brand became popular in the late 2010s for offering affordable yet flavorful drinks that catered well to the masa market. But is franchising Big Brew today a smart move? Let’s go through the details carefully.
Background of the Brand
Big Brew Franchise started in 2019 with the vision of bringing budget-friendly coffee, milk tea, and snack products closer to communities. Founded by Rolando Garcia, the brand quickly spread through different locations, positioning itself as a low-cost alternative to premium coffee chains. Their bestsellers include classic milk tea flavors, affordable iced coffee, and quick snacks to pair with the drinks.
Why Franchise Big Brew?
The appeal of Big Brew is pretty straightforward. It’s cheap to the customer, easy to prepare for staff, and the brand name already carries some recognition. If your location has steady foot traffic from students or office workers, an affordable milk tea and coffee kiosk can easily catch attention. Plus, some franchise packages from earlier sources were marketed as turnkey solutions with equipment, training, and initial stocks.
Requirements for Big Brew Franchise
As of a 2019 source, the franchise fee for Big Brew was listed at around ₱300,000 (Hills and Valleys PH). This covered franchise rights and an initial package.
Aside from the fee, typical franchise requirements include:
- Store renovation or kiosk build-out
- Equipment (brewing machines, blenders, sealing machines)
- Initial inventory of ingredients
- Training for staff
- Letter of Intent (LOI)
- Proposed location for approval
Some online discussions also mention a royalty fee of about 2% of gross sales being charged, though this should be clarified directly with the franchisor as details vary.
Because official updated figures aren’t available publicly, the best step is to contact Big Brew directly via their official Facebook page (Big Brew Official Facebook Page).
How to Start a Big Brew Franchise
Based on past accounts, the process usually followed these steps:
- Submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) with your proposed location.
- Fill out the application form provided by the franchise team.
- Attend an interview or orientation with Big Brew representatives.
- Once approved, pay the franchise fee.
- Site inspection and approval.
- Store build-out with design guidelines from Big Brew.
- Training for you and your staff.
- Opening day with initial marketing support.
Again, since details may have changed since 2019, confirm everything directly with the franchisor.
Franchisee Feedback and Issues Raised
When looking at feedback about Big Brew, it’s important to see both sides of the picture.
Positive Observations
- Many branches reportedly enjoy steady customer traffic, especially in high-footfall areas, because of their pang-masa pricing. As one Reddit user noted: “Napansin ko na sa lahat na nakikita ko branches nito lagi dinudumog ng tao. Presyo niya kasi pang masa. Yun lasa okay na. For me sakto lang.”
- Big Brew has been recognized for its affordability and brand reach, offering drinks as low as ₱29 and expanding to dozens of branches nationwide by leveraging franchising.
- Its value-for-money positioning makes it attractive to students and working-class consumers who want decent drinks at budget prices.
Critical Feedback
On the other hand, several former franchisees have shared frustrations:
Another ex-franchisee said: “Former franchisee here… non-profitable. Mas malaki pa maiipon mong pagod at sama ng loob… So for me wag na wag mag franchise ng Big Brew. Sila lang yayaman.”
A Reddit user warned: “Stop franchising Bigbrew… Business model – for 300K franchise fee plus all the charges… unprofessional management.”
Who is This Franchise Best For?
Big Brew could be best suited for:
- Entrepreneurs looking for a low-cost entry into the beverage market.
- Locations near schools or offices where affordable drinks sell well.
- Owners willing to take on the risks of working with a relatively young franchise brand.
However, if you prefer a franchise with a longer track record, clearer systems, and stronger support, it might be worth comparing alternatives.
Alternative Possible Franchise
If you like the idea of a coffee or milk tea venture but want more options, here are some alternatives you can explore:
PickUp Coffee
Known for affordable yet barista-quality coffee, PickUp Coffee has been expanding steadily in Metro Manila.
Nescafe Coffee Vending Machine
A lower-cost option for starting in coffee is to operate a Nescafe vending machine. This model requires less manpower and space.
Don Macchiato’s
Another local coffee-and-milk-tea concept, Don Macchiato’s focuses on variety and presentation.
I Love Milk Tea
One of the earlier milk tea franchises in the Philippines. I Love Milk Tea comes with flexible packages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before wrapping up, let’s answer some of the common questions people have about franchising Big Brew.
How much is the franchise fee?
From a 2019 source, the franchise fee was around ₱300,000. However, this may no longer be accurate today. Always confirm with Big Brew’s official Facebook page.
What are the ongoing fees?
Some accounts mention a 2% royalty fee on gross sales. Clarify this directly with Big Brew before signing anything.
Is Big Brew profitable?
Experiences vary. Some owners may break even with good locations, but several franchisees have reported losses and management issues.
What support will I get as a franchisee?
In earlier packages, franchisees reportedly received training, location support, supply chain access, and marketing help. The actual level of support may differ today.
