How to Franchise Chowking in the Philippines
Chowking is one of those places you instantly think of when someone says Chinese-style fastfood in the Philippines. From siomai to halo-halo, it’s been part of our everyday meals, family gatherings, and quick cravings. But beyond being a customer, you might be asking: can you actually franchise Chowking? The answer is yes. Chowking Philippines continues to welcome franchise partners, and if you’re eyeing this brand as your next business move, here’s what you should know.
Behind the Brand
Chowking started in 1985, founded by Robert F. Kuan, with the idea of bringing together the quick-service format of Western fastfood and the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. It grew fast and by 2000, it was acquired by Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC). Today, it’s one of the strongest brands under the JFC umbrella, alongside Jollibee and Mang Inasal.
Popular menu items include:
- Chao Fan rice meals
- Lauriat platters
- Halo-Halo dessert
Chowking is all about affordable, filling meals that Filipinos love.
Why Chowking can be a good business
The brand’s strength lies in being a household name. You don’t need to spend much convincing people what Chowking is. It also benefits from JFC’s strong systems, supply chain, and marketing. That’s a big deal for franchisees, kasi hindi ka nag-iisa—you’ll have the backing of a giant.
What customers and franchisees say
“You can go for the safer route big 4 (mcdo, chowking , mang inasal , jollibee).”
“It’s good, and I can say, compared sa mga kakumpitensya niyang chicken fillet / chicken chops from other fast foods, isa ito sa top tier.”
“overall it was good! 8/10.”
Chowking Franchise Requirements
According to the official Chowking franchising page (Chowking Franchising), applicants must prepare for both financial and operational requirements.
- Capital Investment: Chowking does not publish an exact figure on the site, but industry listings (like the Philippine Franchise Association) indicate that the investment typically runs into the tens of millions, depending on location and store format.
- Franchise Fee: This is paid upfront to secure the franchise rights. Specific numbers are not posted online, so the official team should be contacted for updated figures.
- Location: Applicants need to propose a site. Expect to submit a vicinity map, photos, and size details.
- Documents: Basic documents like a Letter of Intent, completed franchise application form, and personal or corporate background details will be required.
- Manpower: Franchisees must commit to hiring and training staff according to Chowking’s operational standards.
The franchising team will evaluate your qualifications and your proposed site before moving forward.
How to Franchise Chowking in the Philippines
The official website outlines the process (Chowking Franchising) in simple steps:
- Submit Application – Fill out the online form and send your Letter of Intent with site details.
- Evaluation – Chowking’s team reviews your application, financial capability, and site viability.
- Interview and Approval – If you qualify, you’ll be invited for an interview and further assessment.
- Franchise Agreement – Once approved, you’ll sign the franchise agreement and settle the fees.
- Store Development – The Chowking team assists in store design, construction, training, and pre-opening.
- Grand Opening – With JFC’s support, you launch your Chowking store.
Who is Chowking Franchise Best For?
This franchise works best for entrepreneurs who:
- Have solid capital and are ready to invest in a full-service store
- Own or control a prime location with high foot traffic
- Are willing to be hands-on in operations, at least in the early years
- Value being part of an established corporate system rather than building a brand from scratch
If you’re someone who prefers independence and experimenting, Chowking might feel too structured. But if you like playing within a proven framework, this could be a perfect fit.
Alternative Franchise Opportunities
If Chowking doesn’t feel right or if your site isn’t a fit, there are other established food brands to explore in the Philippines. These are independent brands, not under JFC, but each has strong recognition and loyal followings:
- Jollibee – The flagship Filipino fast food name. Family-friendly menu, massive marketing engine, and a playbook built for high foot traffic sites. Great if your trade area skews family dining and all-day snacking.
- Hen Lin – Long-running dim sum favorite known for siomai, siopao, and mami. Works nicely for mall corridors and transport-adjacent locations where quick, comforting snacks sell steady.
- Siomai King – Food-cart format built for speed and simplicity. Strong takeout appeal and easy to multiply across multiple small-footprint sites if your goal is network growth.
- Kowloon House – Heritage Cantonese comfort food with nostalgic pull. Consider for neighborhoods that value hearty snacks and classic flavors, with options for dine-in or takeout counters.
- Master Siomai – Street-smart kiosk concept with a loyal fan base for fried siomai and quick rice combos. Ideal for terminals, campuses, and office clusters.
- Siomai House – Straightforward menu, value-oriented positioning, and a kiosk footprint that slots well into smaller spaces. Best where impulse buys drive volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask when thinking about a Chowking franchise:
How much is the Chowking franchise fee?
The exact franchise fee isn’t listed publicly. You’ll need to contact Chowking directly through their official franchising page. Expect it to be in line with other large QSRs in the Philippines.
What’s the total investment needed?
Industry estimates suggest it’s in the tens of millions of pesos, depending on the store size and location. Always confirm directly with Chowking for updated figures.
How long is the franchise term?
Chowking does not publish this detail online, but most JFC brands run on 10-year renewable terms.
Who are the key leaders of Jollibee Foods Corporation?
JFC was founded by Dr. Tony Tan Caktiong, who serves as Executive Chairman. The current Global President and CEO is Ernesto Tanmantiong. Other key leaders include William Tan Untiong (Chief Real Estate and Design Officer) and Ysmael Baysa (former long-time CFO).
Does Chowking provide training and support?
Yes. The Chowking team provides pre-opening training, marketing support, and operational guidance. You won’t be left alone to figure things out.
