Food cart business operator mulls IPO

The Lush Company (TLC), a leader in the Philippine food cart business, is considering the possibility of going public to raise more funds for its expansion.

This, as TLC opened a new branch for its deli and wine bar business.

TLC Business Development Manager Christine Gatacilo said the company is now exploring "the possibility of tapping the equity market" to fund their expansion.

Gatacilo said that moving forward, TLC is looking to build more branches for its wine and deli bar business.

La Petite Parisienne is deli and wine bar whose products are all directly imported from France.

On Monday, TLC inaugurated the second branch of La Petite Parisienne this time located in Quezon City.

“We are looking to open another branch soon in Metro Manila,” Gatacilo said.

The innovative concept is the latest venture of TLC, which started with a single beverage kiosk in 2002.

TLC currently carries wellknown brands such as Fruitas Fresh From Babot’s Farm, Buko Ni Fruitas, Fruitas Ice Candy, De Original Jamaican Pattie and Juice Bar, Juice Avenue, The Mango Farm, Buko Loco, Johnn Lemon, Black Pearl, Shou, Friends Fries, and Halo-Halo Islands.

Gatacilo said TLC is expecting the retail food sector to continue to flourish side by side with the economy.

"The improvement in the economy and corresponding increase in personal incomes will further contribute to this,” she said.

“The company is planning to open more food cart locations, food parks and other new dining outlets,” she added.