In a briefing held recently at Max’s Restaurant in Glorietta 3, Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) Chairman Robert Trota presented data revealing that last year’s sales of about a third of the association’s members reached Php 121 billion or about US$ 2.8 billion. He also said that the franchising sector grew by about 20% last year and is expected to improve this year. PFA Chairman Emeritus Samie Lim also disclosed that election spending is helping franchises – especially in the food sector – post record sales. He added that the expected optimism brought about by the new administration will sustain the sector’s growth until the following year. The PFA is the country’s pioneer and premier franchise association whose members come from micro to large enterprises, both homegrown and international. Come July 14 to 18, PFA will hold Franchise 2010: the 18th Philippine International Franchise Conference and Expo (PIFCE) at the SMX Convention Center and is expected to attract 30,000 visitors looking for business opportunities presented by 335 exhibitors. Shown in photo are (from left): Malu Santos, CFE, overall co-chairman-PIFCE 2010; Manuel Siggaoat, CPA, CFE, vice chairman-finance-PFA; Samie Lim, CFE, chairman emeritus-PFA; Robert Trota, CFE, chairman-PFA; Froilan Manotok, CFE, overall chairman-PIFCE 2010; and, Bing Sibal-Limjoco, CFE, vice-chairman-PFA and chair-Franchise Asia 2011. For more information on Franchise 2010, call the PFA Secretariat at (02) 687-0365 to 67, 09178320732, email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or log on to www.franchise2010.com.