Andrew Tan: 'Every night I thank God for giving me another productive day'
Andrew L. Tan is a name that evokes a mega world of beautiful residential villages, imposing high-rise condominium and shopping complexes, and a chain of prestigious international hotels. He also owns the Philippine franchise of a leading American hamburger chain (McDonald’s) and now, the bestselling brandy in the world (Emperador) as well as the oldest and most iconic Spanish brandy (Fundador).
We wanted to take a closer look at the person behind this iconic Forbes lister, and so we asked his son, Kevin Tan to describe him, and he replies: “My dad is a good motivator. Not strict, but firm.”
We asked Andrew Tan a few simple questions — from his drinks to his dreams — and he gladly answered. Here are excerpts:
PHILIPPINE STAR: When your father opened that bottle of brandy during your graduation, did you actually drink some? What thoughts ran through your mind?
ANDREW TAN:
I was just given a little of the brandy to toast with them, not exactly drinking it yet. I was thinking alcoholic drinks make people feel very light and happy. I think the habit of Filipinos celebrating with a bottle of liquor started during the Spanish time.
What is the first thing you drink in the morning? And the last thing you drink at night?
I drink a lot of water when I wake up. I have a little brandy every evening.
So is that one way to de-stress and relax from all your work?
A few sips of brandy will really help. Fundador Exclusivo has that bouquet and lingering pleasant aftertaste coming from the wood and the best Palomino grapes. It is truly wonderful.
There are a few suggested ways of drinking brandy. How would you suggest drinking it?
The best way to drink brandy is neat, especially Fundador Exclusivo that has a lot of complexity.
What is your favorite line when offering a toast?
“Here’s to good friends... and good Emperador brandy”
By now, you must have tasted a lot of the bottles under your Fundador and Emperador labels. Which drink are you particularly proudest of?
Fundador Exclusivo is what I drink regularly. From time to time, I also withdraw brandy directly from the old barrels in our Emperador cellar for my own consumption. It is partly work and partly pleasure. I can enjoy it, and at the same time, I can monitor how well the brandy has been aged.
The Daramezas Vineyard in Toledo which we visited is so high-tech. The Jerez Vineyard, on the other hand, is more traditional.And now you have started a vineyard in Tagaytay. Is it in any way patterned after those two vineyards in Spain?
In our Twin Lakes development in Tagaytay, we will do our best to have a good vineyard but it can never be in the scale of Daramezas or Jerez. Our climate and soil conditions are very different from those of Spain.
Commercials for liquor have traditionally been designed to highlight sexy women to obviously catch the attention of the market, the men. But Emperador’s ads are totally different, showing instead men in suits. What is your idea behind this?
We prefer to use more positive angles in our advertisements, such as success and accomplishment of an individual. When people drink, it is really a reward for their day’s hard work. After a day’s work, people can unwind and relax with a good drink.
Torre Espacio in Madrid is beautiful! Was it love at first sight? Or love at first climb? Which features of the building made you decide on purchasing the property?
The building is designed like a spaceship. It was really love at first sight. It is a unique landmark. We call it a “trophy building”. Anyone owning it will feel proud of it.
You seem so fascinated by European countries and their culture, even aspects of their design. When and where was your first trip to Europe? What inspirations did you get from your trips that you translated into your business endeavors?
My first trip to Europe was more than 35 years ago. I am always fascinated by Old World charm. I managed to incorporate some of these ideas in our various Megaworld township developments.
We have our McKinley Hill development, inspired by Tuscany and Venice. Our Festive Walk in our Iloilo Business Park is inspired by Las Ramblas in Barcelona. We also have projects that have North European themes. We will continue to do this as we want Filipinos to experience what they see abroad while they are right here at home.
What was your dream when you were a young boy?
When I was young, I really wanted to work in a business either as an employee or the owner.
As one of the country’s top captains of industry, what went into achieving what you have now?
In my case, I believe it’s hard work plus luck. Luck is important too. It means doing the right thing at the right time. You can be doing the right thing, but if it is at a wrong time, then the result won’t be as good.
You have a successful real estate empire, a pioneering brandy company, mall complexes, a chain of hotels, an international fastfood franchise. What’s the next challenge for you?
All our business units have expansion targets. For example, we aim to have 12,000 hotel rooms by 2020. Emperador is also fast expanding globally. We need to focus on our growth prospects for now as we expand our core businesses. I do not want to think of anything else.
You are considered an idol, an icon in Philippine business. Do you have idols of your own?
My idols have always been my parents. They were the most influential persons in my life, and I wouldn’t be where I am now if not for the inspiration, encouragement and support that they provided.
You look so hip, young and fit. I once described you as the tycoon in blue jeans. Any favorite designer or brand? Do Mrs. Tan or your children help you shop and choose your wardrobe?
I like to do shopping myself. I go for a very wide range of brands that include Hugo Boss, Salvatore Ferragamo, Prada, Lacoste, Gap, Zara, among others.
What are your dreams for your children? Grandchildren?
Everything I have accomplished in life is the result of many years of blood, sweat and tears. I know my children and grandchildren are not ordinary in that they have been born and blessed with all the privileges, luxuries and comforts given only to a few. That is why I have never failed to impress on them the value of hard work, as well as humility and compassion for those who have less in life. I want them to be successful in their own right, whether as the captains of the businesses that I started or those of their own, but always remembering to pay their dues to society.
You have done it all. What dream or wish have you yet to fulfill? Anything left on your bucket list?
I couldn’t ask for more. I should give back more to society.
What is your favorite prayer at night before going to bed?
In my own words, I thank God for giving me another productive day. And then I pray that He will continue to shower me with the blessings of good health, good fortune and a good heart for others. ***
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‘Everything I have accomplished in life is the result of many years of blood, sweat and tears. I have never failed to impress on my children and grandchildren the value of hard work, as well as humility and compassion.’