MANILA, Philippines — The robust BPO (business pro¬cess outsourcing) industry has fueled growth of the country’s fast food chains that proliferate in areas near BPO centers.
Binalot Fiesta Foods Inc. (BFFI), home of Pinoy favorites wrapped in banana leaves, is one such franchised business that enjoyed great success together with the BPO industry.
Binalot CEO Rommel Juan said that Binalot franchisees Cookie Es¬condo, Nap Casibang and Maz Uno, whose stores are located right at the middle of the Ayala BPO hub are enjoy¬ing strong growth. They serve a variety of multinational expats and Filipino call center agents employed by BPOs.
“We are finding more commercial sites beside BPOs and we see the industry growing even more. Because we see parallelisms with the BPO in¬dustry and the food industry, we know that it will complement each other. This industry is definitely one where the Philippines have an advantage. Filipinos are naturally caring. We do not argue with our customers. It shows the Filipino’s natural hospitality, warmth and quality of service,” Rommel said.
It came as no surprise when Binalot, who’s known as a Pinoy green fast food, partnered with BPO giants Accenture and SPI Global. In a Corporate Tie-Up agreement, a ‘‘Buy Now, Pay Later’’ system was introduced. Clients can now order their favorite eco-friendly banana wrapped dishes, have it delivered, and pay after seven days. This Bulk Service Orders and Delivery (BOSD) scheme is perfect for meetings, seminars and corporate parties.
Juan further noted that according to Chinese astrology, 2012 is the Year of the Water Dragon, it’s dark deep hue promising wealth and prosperity. With a strong network of 38 stores nationwide.
“Binalot foresees more outlets to open
and provide trademark Pinoy service to call centers this year,” Juan said.
This is not just because of what the astrology says, Juan said but is largely due to the growing BPO industry.
He said the BPO industry in the country will continue
to grow because the Philippines is the third largest English-speaking country in the world, next to the US and UK.
“The Philippines is an obvious choice for foreign companies looking for a country to host its overseas outsourcing operations,” he sauid.
Aside from less expensive operational and labor costs, the Filipinos’ close cultural relations to Westerners, English proficiency, and high information technology literacy also proved beneficial in being a competitive destination for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) or simply, call centers.
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/356704/bpos-sustain-fastfood-industry-growth