Global Pinoy brands

Brands are not just names. They are not just titles. They not only identify the product or services but they also represent the company and what it stands for.

Over the years, because of the Brand popularity, many companies have extended their brands to so many other products. For example – Magnolia started as an ice cream brand. Now they are into cheese food, Juices, Chicken and a host of other popular products. Another good example is Nestle. Nestle products in different categories are branded as Nestle!

Philippine brands have gone a long way the past three to five decades. They are not only known worldwide for their world class quality but because of efficient operations. Take for example the following – San Miguel Beer, Tanduay Rhum, Jollibee, Max chicken, and Potato Corner to mention a few. Filipino in origin, but now known worldwide.

There are upcoming brands that business should develop and continue to promote internationally. We have a good number of them. For example – Guimaras Mangoes, Davao’s Malagos Chocolate , Good Shepherd Jams, Baguio’s Romana Peanut Brittle , Dumaguete’s Montano Spanish sardines, Naga’s Colonial Sili Ice cream and many others . Now even Rico’s and Zubuchon can be purchased thru Drive Thru and easy to be checked in on planes.

If further developed, they would not only be good ambassadors of the country but a good source of revenue both for the government and the business itself.

What makes then a good brand? It is probably not only about its uniqueness but its appeal to the consuming public. One does not have to be a big company to start with. Even SMEs can start focusing on their products and their brands to make them world class. That is how our famous tobaccos and Barong Tagalog started even before the war.

Consumers identify with the products. When they are satisfied, they become not only a fan of the product but become a loyal follower. See how the millennials would react, they will follow them on Facebook, in Tweeter and have fun using Instagram when they encounter the product. They show their happiness and joy not by just looking at the product but also by consuming them. They in effect, help in the promotions of the brand. Never mind how you will promote them whether thru franchising, network marketing or direct selling. What is important is how you bring those into the foreign market.

Brands therefore should be well taken cared of. It is not enough that they are advertised but they become known for their quality and efficient operations. Brand owners should ensure that any malicious or unfounded attacks are readily acted upon. And when the brands are promoted, it should not overpromise but undeliver. Avoid being copy cats or anything that violates patent rules. Be original.

Considering you see Filipinos everywhere – from the swank cities of New York and London to the new emerging hubs in Kenya and South Africa, Pinoy brands would be easy to be noticed and patronized. With hard work and continuing support of DTI Export Promotions, we can say yes – we have Global Pinoy Brands and we are proud of them.

**** The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of FINEX. tedestacio@yahoo.com