This year-end will see McDonald’s reach 370 outlets in the Philippines.

McDonald’s master franchisee for the Philippines, Golden Arches Development Corporation, expects 50 new outlet openings this year, in addition to its 320 already trading nationwide.

Golden Arches says it is optimistic of growth in the Philippines market due to strong consumer spending. The ongoing growth of business process outsourcing industry and high overseas remittance income contributes a lot in the country’s strong economy, says Golden Arches CEO and president Kenneth Yang.

GDP in the Philippines grew at 6.4 per cent during the first quarter while overseas remittances rose 5.5 per cent to US$9.26 billion for January to May period.

Rapid growth for McDonald’s Philippines is expected to continue for the next three to five years. The new stores will be a combination of company-owned and franchise stores.

“Our thrust for franchising is outside Manila, in provincial areas,” Yang said.

Tourists destinations including Palawan, Bohol and Boracay are among the list of possible locations for the new stores.

McDonald’s launched its first outlet in the Philippines in 1981 in Morayta, Manila.

GB