Malaysia’s OldTown White Coffee is accelerating its growth in the Philippines with a US$21 million (PHP400 million) investment as it plans to open 20 more stores over the next five years.

The move, led by Philippine licensee Del Mundo Group, follows the recent opening of OldTown’s first branch in Zamboanga City, marking the brand’s 11th location in the country and its first in Western Mindanao.

Located along Pasonanca Road in Tumaga, the new cafe is owned and managed by local entrepreneurs Pherhan and Jhulie Saiddi, who said they hope to contribute to the city’s expanding food and beverage scene.

“Our dream is to bring a global brand to Zamboanga that reflects both quality and cultural authenticity. OldTown White Coffee is exactly that,” they said.

Launched in 1999, OldTown White Coffee is known for its roasted white coffee and traditional Malaysian fare. It operates more than 200 outlets in Malaysia and has since expanded to Singapore, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.

The coffee chain made its Philippine debut in 2023 under Del Mundo Group, which also operates brands including Mesa Filipino Moderne, Ramen Bari Uma, Buchiton, Hayashi Yakiniku, and Cravy.

Del Mundo Group COO Matt Ablis said the company plans to expand into key provincial markets where consumer demand and local economies are growing.

“This expansion goes beyond store openings; it’s about extending OldTown’s established cafe format and menu to new regions,” he said.