RFG splashes out in the Pacific
GOLD Coast food franchisor Retail Food Group is acquiring a taste for expansion in the Pacific Islands.
The listed company recently sold the master franchise licenses for Brumby’s Bakery Fiji and Gloria Jean’s Coffees Pacific Islands, including Vanuatu, French Polynesia, Samoa and New Caledonia.
Buyer Ariel De Asa has been part of RFG since 2006 and currently runs eight Gloria Jean’s Coffees outlets in Fiji.
Mr De Asa said he wants to build a “coffee culture” in the Pacific Islands. “I want to spread the well-established operations of Gloria Jean’s Coffees and bring in the Brumby’s Bakery brand to help supplement one another,” he said.
“I originally joined the Gloria Jean’s Coffees family because I was intrigued by franchising and I loved the people behind the brand, their values and of course the coffee.”
Mr De Asa said he plans to open four Brumby’s Bakery outlets in Fiji and multiple Gloria Jean’s Coffees stores across the Pacific.
“The product’s affordability will determine survival within the market.
“These brands offer something for everyone and I believe they will be well received across the islands,” he said.
RFG chief franchise officer Mike Gilbert said the Pacific Islands are a key part of its strategy to expand the company’s global footprint. “The success of highly engaged and experienced master franchise partners, like Ariel De Asa, has been paramount in expanding the presence of our brands into new regions,” he said.