Lots of people suggesting it here, but having owned restaurants for 12 years, you can easily make buns . Just get a bread oven and hire someone skilled to come in and bake every couple of days. You will save over half the cost, but more importantly consistent size and taste of the buns.
Mine as well open a beaver bakery having to hire a baker, build the space, stainless work, oven, all the logistics, might work making dessert , he would have to wait until upgrading since no plan for yet.
@@Handicappedvet the electrical infrastructure is not good there...a bread oven wouldnt work unless its in a area with there are more industrial sized applications.
@@ThatPhilippinesLife Getting put on as a regular customer with a bakery will be good for consistency and local relationship building. I ran a sandwich shop in Tampa for 15 years and we had a local bakery deliver our bread every morning!
@@Handicappedvet and that would need to double the kitchen again, and baking is a tough business for example a hamburger bun sells in retail for 12 pesos
why not get a local bakery to make your hamburger buns, there are so many around in the PI. That way you can also customize it and deliver it to your bar?
Michael, the first time you showed the restaurant before actually renting it, immediately I realized that the other half also should be covered with platic sheets or tarpaulin for summer and also for rainy season. I have also done a beach shack in 2017, so I have a better idea. See if you can start "live music" if possible. If live music is not possible/feasible, just keep some good "karaoke system/setup" for customers to sing. That will also increase the business and its revenue. What is the breakeven at this time and is it acheiving? How much did the structure cost?
The stress of business ownership. Is it worth it? Are you building a future or burying your self? Keep operating cost contained vs providing a high quality product and experience. Keep innovating or rely on what you’ve built so far and hope businesses keeps going up. It’s a big bite, done it many times, sometimes very successfully sometimes not. What is your time worth coralline all the hamburger buns in town and that’s 1 small item needing your attention. Delegation of duties is crucial and absolutely the hardest thing for a business owner to due as very few employees can or will perform at an owners level. You’ve done an amazing job, good luck on the future expansion.
The buns you are using for the burgers are from the brand Angelina. They are based in Iloilo, and they also own Nicolette and Theo’s Restaurant which is located at SM City Iloilo
I like that you are explaining your background and how you have the experience. Watching your channel is great but I like the fact that you have a PLAN.
Agree with the comments about the buns. Look for 1-2 local bakeries. Lot's of places make pandesal and white bread. They should be able to make burger buns or worst case google the receipy. If you give them a fixed amount of business and set quality standards they should be able to supply you regularly and eventually cheaper than what is sold from other areas. That reminds me you can also check the label and see if you can contact the manufacturer of the buns you currently buy and see if it's worth sourcing directly, e.g. they are close enough so you can pick-up or deliver cheaply. Custom buns would add another level to your burgers. Brioche buns, etc. Just not sure of your volume but a local shop would be your best bet. GL!
Collaborate with local businesses to provide what u need..like bakery, collaborate with the farmer, fishermen and poultry..collaborations! It will be cheaper...and you are helping the locals.
@@gentledaisy we have been trying it's not as easy as it seems out of stock is normal and no one is concerned to say to you, don't have any today...hard to rely on that
Instead of running around looking for supplies you could just tell the customers “sorry sir that not available” or “sorry sir we are out of stock” 😂. You’d blend right in. Seriously though, you could just hire someone to bake buns for you every couple of days. That way you’re sure to not run out and it will probably end up being less expensive.
Mike, when will the beer kegs be available for the tap? Cleaning and sterilizing the draft and gas lines and other crevices will be a daily hustle. Microbial growth and bio-film formation is really fast in a tropical outdoor temperature. Otherwise for discerning beer connoisseurs, skunky off-flavors, haze etc will be noticeable. Well, from internet pictures they have those San Miguel bottled beers exposed in the sunlight UV everyday anyway and no one complain about the lightstruck skunky aroma. Maybe it's all good as long as there's perceptible alcohol content. :)
Great video btw! I really enjoy the informational type videos, especially when it comes to business and travel! I’m sure you knew all about supply issues prior to opening… one thing I would do is “Meal of the Day” type promotion…. Make it a special and it would really help when you are short on certain items because you would make the Special something that you have plenty of stock, and it would entice people to not go after a hamburger when you only have 4 buns, and only the people that really want a burger will get one…just an idea
I appreciate you sharing your journey with us Michael, especially all these deeper details of life there. You have a great 'can do' attitude and spirit and are inspirational to me. Thank you.
Brother, first thing. Make a small brick oven that you can have outside, and every day match a batch of dough and make your own burger rolls, it is so much easier then people might tell you. I helped my buddy start a Fry house in Eastern Europe, with the same issues you have where you are. And a simple recipe is all you need. You can make about 30 buns a batch depending on what you build and the size you want to go.
you should also consider what happens if you get into a business dispute as a foreigner in another country. business disputes always occur over time and volume of trade. be careful and stay strategic unless its a lifestyle business.
Well said Mike - very enlightening…you have obviously done your homework :) Wishing you much success! If I’ve learned nothing in business, I do know this…treat your employees well and they will be very loyal to you. Of course, we know there is always the exception to this rule. Amping!
You created the supply problem. This is because you created your menu from the top down instead of the ground up. You based the menu on your favorite dishes instead of properly researching what ingredients are easily available or have reliable suppliers. It is very important that you have recipee cards for each dish on your menu...and these cards will contain important information about ingredients (and portion control) and the suppliers (and alternative suppliers) for each ingredient. Phone numbers for all or your suppliers should also be on each recipee card. These written cards are a system that will take some of the pressure off you and help the bar to be managed in your absence. They also ensure that your dishes remain profitable because of portion control and that your recipees are properly documented in the event that your chef quits or fails to show up. Some bars also use recipee cards for their cocktails. Ask yourself....what is the point of promoting signature dishes when the recipee for those dishes remains inside the head of your chef. What happens if he walks...or demands an unrealistic pay rise? The same issue applies to your head bar tender. And don't forget, chefs always quit when your restaurant is busy. You need to start getting some written systems in place.....today. Otherwise you have not created a business, just a stressful managerial job for yourself that you do not have a visa for. "Double the size of the place"....how are you going to scale your business if you have no documented systems in place? You will never have the right people in place. Only the right systems.
I was a chef for 16 years Proofing bread there is probably even easier because it’s warm and moist, which is exactly what you want when you’re proofing bread
In Iloilo you can contact many local bakeries to make your buns for burger. Just go to local bakeries in Roxas and asked them if they can give you supply. Or twice a week you asked someone to go to Iloilo to get supply. Roxas is a nice city but you can find everything you need in Iloilo.
@@cjanvier1536 at 12 pesos per bun retail the cost to produce our own would be too prohibitive, too much capital investment into an over and too much space unfortunately
Great video! Love the idea that lawyers can't advertise. The US would be a far better place, with considerably lower healthcare costs. Edit: Hilarious! Start at 10:00 and 10:00-11:00 is actually breakfast. ;) I'm a business owner in the US and I feel for you. Loved it!
Thats why I invest only in stocks and let other people do all the work for me while Im sleeping or on the beach. Philippines have some great companies like Robinson, Ayala, Puregold, Jolibee, big banks and utilities like Manila Water and Manila Electric. That way you also make much more money than any restaurants or bar can make over longer periods of time.
Jollibee often contracts local suppliers, including bakeries, to provide their buns. This approach helps them ensure freshness and support local businesses. I think that one bakery was Cakes, Eat, Cetera. Jollibee gave them the formula for their buns with an NDA and the bakery supplies them everyday with freshly baked buns. I think you can do that too, with a very small bakery in Roxas. You can ask La Fuerza bakeshop, Mama's bread, I forgot the others. Those are one of the oldest bakeries in Roxas.
@@JonMotivationalRend Yes they do. That's why I was suggesting to Michael to look for those smaller bakeries in Roxas to do the job. 50 - 100 buns or more a day and have them delivered would be a good deal.
@Scamander1417 maybe they will do it, but it will be based on numbers to be worthwhile. The good thing is that profit margins are normally low with smaller businesses. But I'm sure the Baker will want you to pay more per bun.
I had heard of the 13 month year. It's why so many places have crap staff. They only keep employees 6 months or so. Hopefully you go for it, and keep good staff.
That's pretty friggin' awesome Michael that you share quite a bit of information (info that costs through lawyers) about Filipino business law. Your info makes it easier for someone to make that 'push' as you say to start a business in the Philippines. Awesome video brotha!
Just a suggestion mate, take it as you like, maybe if you can find a bakery in Roxas and maybe you can get them to make your own burger buns and bread, just a thought, keep up with the hard work, just don’t burn yourself out 👍🇦🇺
Thats the issues in PH.. there’s nowhere to get quality stuff like buns and other materials for a particular business..the first time i moved back to Ph from Australia i was dismayed in just my first few months..everything is difficult, You need to have miles and miles of patience..You need to know all the Filipino Saints for you to pray whenever you’re down.😂
This was super helpful and very informative Michael. Thank you for the explanation. Now the only question is how you create sysco type foodservice and make a profit because many will source locally to save costs. However everyone knows that what is on any menu in the Philippines isn't always available because they lack the food logistics you reference.
So if you have a long-term lease and your business goes out of business, what is the consequences of that situation? Do you have to buy out your lease? Is there a clause that if your business is not successful, the lease is cancelled
😮 Lots of eager commenters within 60 minutes of posting. I guess, Mike, you definitely have a reality UA-cam TV show now. Thousands are definitely addicted to the Beaver aka Kardashian show.
I would contract manufactures of products directly to get critical access to business supplies. There are US corporations who refuse to allow small start ups to purchase products directly from them. Hasbro is a nightmare. They use excuses to keep products flowing to middle man vendors meanwhile using excuse like you need a business license to purchase products from them directly.
Good info for anyone starting a business. It is not easy here to do that as there are so many rules and things you need to do.That extra months pay at the end of the year is basically like vacation pay in Canada. In and around Dumaguete there are a few bakeries that make burger and hot dog buns and when they have them they don't last long. So perhaps getting a bakery to make the buns will work for you. I am not sure about the lawyer thing you were talking about as Pea has her lawyer friend on her channel several times and even posts her info in the comments. Like someone else said if you can colaberate with some local businesses you should be able to keep a good supply. You have fishing boats right there so you should be able to get fresh fish all the time. I have a friend who lives on the beach and he gets fresh fish from the fishermen when they come in and delivered right to his door. I know you will work it out just takes time to get to know where you can get what and keep a good supply
there must be a pandesal baker in town you can work with for your bread/buns. Work with them and tell them what you want/need and maybe you can even get a volume cost discount from them
One of the first expat videos I watched included these guys (all American) discussing what they miss from back home. Other than the infrastructure, which includes reliability of things, the thing they talked about most was the food. They all like the food in the PH but miss things they enjoyed back home and can't get there. The first thing that came to my mind was 'business opportunity', a market demand. I realize there are reasons others aren't filling the need or, want, but as an American I tend to have an entrepreneurial mind. When I spot a problem I also see an opportunity to be the guy that provides a solution. My mind first went to running a cafe that specializes in western, or even just American, foods. Immediately I realized the issue is getting the supplies/ingredients you need to do that. Then I thought about just importing/exporting various snacks or whatnot that expats miss most and just sell them online. I'm not naive enough to think I'm the first one to spot these ideas. My only point here is that whenever I discover some shortage, issue, lack or void somewhere I think of that as an opportunity to answer the demand. I think there is a way to improve upon all these infrastructure shortcomings and enterprising people will find better ways or provide what is needed. This is part of the development of that area as I see it. It's not just building condos and installing more AC units. There's a ton of room for improvement and yes perhaps being the vendor or such for some of this could be an early step in vastly improving the logistics for ALL other businesses, and even retail shoppers. I have heard so many complain that you can't rely on anything on a menu actually being available at any given time. I think this supply issue is a huge part of that. Yes, people do say it's not that bad in Cebu, BGC, Manila, etc., but all the places further out depend on a lot of transport to get stock from those places out to the other islands, etc.. Obviously all these problems have challenges to overcoming them but I do believe that enterprising people will answer the call and figure it out. This could be the biggest contribution some westerners make, though probably not retirees living on Soc. Sec., guys like Michael here and others that see the obstacles as opportunities. I'm not saying that the answers can't or won't come from Filapinnos, only that I suspect this sort of mindset is probably more common among westerners. If there is anything we might be able to bring to the table, perhaps this is it.
Have 1 of your staff be the runner for the veg etc ..speak to the supplier to supply you a certain quantity every week..find a bakery or private baker that can do your burger buns from home..there must be someone that will do it
You may want to find a local bakery shop and consign your burger buns with them. That way, you won't ever run out of burger buns, plus, they'd be cheaper and fresher.
I personally would hire a baker, buy an oven, and make your own baked goods, such as the hamburger buns. One of my favorite restaurants in the U.S., Der Dutchman, has a bakery and they not only make all of the baked goods for their restaurant, but have their baked goods in the lobby which people always buy to take home as they’re leaving.
Excellent video!! Great information about things that many do not know about. Seems like a lot of hurdles to get over to understand the ins and outs of operating a business in the Philippines. Also how hard was it to get a business visa so you can work? So you can own a business as long as you are not working? Very interesting visa rules.
Mike, I started a restaurant business on remote island in Greece, successful for 17 years. My suggestion for fairly long term solution is find some secure freezer storage, either with a company or put something in your yard at home, so you can buy or produce some bulk, which hopefully can reduce some cost of food. I was lucky I had storage, usually when stuff was cheap i bought extra, like fresh tuna, canned goods, bread.
In the Philippines, if your business capital is from 200,000 USD or above you can register your business under your name only without the need for a Filipino partner. I do recommend opening a salon for full service like the way in Thailand where they can do everything regardless of beautification for men and women, and all you need is to provide all the tools and find expert training Filipinas. Watch some UA-cam of Vietnamese Salon in Thailand, and you will know exactly what I’m talking about as a backup income for you. The best location for that business will be in Makati, an iconic spot. People in Manila are classy, and they do care about the shape of their look. It’s your choice after all.
@@Abdul.. except retail business, "Under the RTLA, the minimum paid-up capital for foreign retail investments has been reduced to ₱25 million, from the previous US$2.5 million (₱125 million)." So now it's 427k usd
Retail business cant get you any visa because you cant directly own a retail business unlike other industries where you can have your name directly on the company. will fo the members video soon on details
Hard to source western food stuffs here. Wholesale accountant S&R is a huge help. They are right about using a local bakery for burger and hotdog buns. Shopkeepers and zada are pretty good, but the sellers run out of stock when you need it the most. We make our own mozzarella and ricotta here. Buns and Italian bread are easy too. Do them the b Night before or come in early in the morning. Hard when you close late.ilo ilo is the closest. Monthly road-trip
Look for a local bakeshop there and have a conservation of what kind of hamburger buns are u looking for,have u been to cakes etcetera ?down Legaspi St. a local bakeshop.
For stock I would rent or borrow a truck and send someone or yourself to iloilo once a week and pickup everything you need. Only use in town for things that run out during that week.
the fact that there are no supply delivery companies is just that the sourcing on an Island like Panay is terrible and it is in the hands of huge cooperations, I know this from a friend who has a restaurant in Kalibo. To solve your hamburger bun shortage I can only recommend to seek a local bakery in your area and let them produce (and maybe delivery?) for you? Also when it comes to to meat sourcing, look for a local butcher that can delivery you maybe fresh or frozen meat with consistant quality. But, what I am talking, you are a smart man, you will figure something out. Anyway, I will visit your bar in November and I am hungry, so get it sorted, my friend :-) keep on banging! All the best, you are doing a great job! Take care!
Can you also buy Loafs of White Bread sliced 🍞 in case you run out of Hamburger Buns and sell them as Classic Hamburger Melts or Chicken Sandwich Melts? 🥪 Honestly I prefer my Hamburger or Chicken Sandwich with two slices of bread because it is a lot less white bread dough then regular Hamburger buns. If you have a regular Toaster you can Toast both Slices of bread and add a bit of Butter to both slices or you can add Mayonnaise to both slices and it comes out excellent. It is called Texas Toast if you add Butter. You can also advertise it as Texas Toast Burger if you toast it and add Butter. I do not know if this helped but I figured suggesting this option would not hurt.
Funny how I know of the things you speak of. However, a large chain (250+ locations) here pays employees 300 per day ~ period. There's no overtime unless they work on a holiday. Nine & 1/2 and 10 hour shifts. Paid meals? Hahaha My BetterHalf does make certain that they keep up the SS and Fiilcare. Thirteen month? LOL! She does push for 1 week paid vacation. Oh BTW, this outfit also charges employees if inventory in their assigned area is out of stock or has expired dates. Also, they charge all store employees a penalty if the inventory count is short. Years ago she worked for another well known family that owns restaurants at all Robinson Place malls. She then worked in their large department store. (Not Robinson... I know better than to name these businesses.) Same crap went on in those large well known businesses. Wish you luck. As an Expat tourist you definitely have challenges in owning a business in the Philippines. It is not fair that your competitors will likely not be so good to their employees. So you will have more overhead than the competition. 😢
Micheal workout a contract with a local philippino bakery to make hamburger buns for your Daily by weekly what you would need on daily bases depending on projections Thurs Fridays Saturday and Sundays will be more customers on those days. Hope this Suggestion Helps
start baking your hamburger buns & bread for sandwiches. I am sure you can easily source out the ingredients - flour, yeast, sugar. That way, you have better control over your supply.
Starting/owning a business in the Philippines is really not that problematic. My Filipina wife, of 12 years, and I own residential property, from which we earn a considerable monthly income. We also own commercial property. We operated a coffee shop and and a store, near a hospital, so we got a decent regular through trade, but we then chose to lease the properties out to local Filipina business-people. They pay their rent on time, they make a living and that is all we or they care about. We obeyed the laws and abided by the regulations. We own the land so ultimately it is still ours. The people who run the business have decent, long-term leases so everybody wins.
If buns not available at a local bakery, delete hamburger. Gardenia makes great wheat bread to make a patty melt in two or three styles. They'll love it ❣️
You might be able to get Angelina to deliver buns to your shop from their main bakery in Iloilo. I know they produce a lot for groceries all over Panay but they might cater small businesses too. :)
I think it's great how you look after your staff you could get away with paying them less but you like to be a good employer. You keep saying it's because if you want the best people you have to pay well and although that's true I think it has more to do with you being a nice guy and actually caring about your staff.
I gave you a thumbs up for effort but I don't agree with accountant cuz there's too much software that does that if you have any decent knowledge but lawyers are a good thing. Thank you for 😂 information
The best business in the pines is a machine welding shop no credit. food is is also good , you can buy a bread bun making machine which are small 4 at a time .
It is all about the raw mater🎉🎉ials bro. Since the labor is cheap, try bake your personal bread that is unigue to your persoal experience...Good luck on your personal life journey..
Approx. $10 to $15 per day per staff member vs $15 to $17 per hour per staff member in Canada... small biz like yours with pricing at half or 1/3 of what it costs in Canada I can see it still making a profit with labour so cheap. When I see places like Starbucks and other businesses charging western prices but paying local wages I avoid, knowing that the those companies are completely taking advantage.
@@randysalerno6274 they really are massive profit centers! For me it's the material costs. For example a carrot is 70 pesos for a single carrot! 1.75 Canadian!
Questions what is the visa process like, what visa do you have to get if your a small business would they give you a business visa or is there another type?
Hi love your chanel. One solution to your issue sourcing the hamburger buns is to talk to your local bakery pandesal store and tell them to make you hamburger buns and have a par order every day. The Filipino buns are similar to you regular hamburger buns but just smaller and just tell them to make it bigger. I'm a retired chef and fortunately I'm financially secure but just to keep myself occupied I'm also involved in business here in the Philippines. In my experience because of their limitations financially most of the locals buy mostly essentials if they can even afford that consistently. So most of my businesses here in the Philippines is concentrated on essential goods and services. Philippines is a very though place to do business because every person is pinching pennys. I joke all the time in America you can own a hot dog stand and potentially become a millionaire, not here in the Philippines.
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Lots of people suggesting it here, but having owned restaurants for 12 years, you can easily make buns . Just get a bread oven and hire someone skilled to come in and bake every couple of days. You will save over half the cost, but more importantly consistent size and taste of the buns.
Mine as well open a beaver bakery having to hire a baker, build the space, stainless work, oven, all the logistics, might work making dessert , he would have to wait until upgrading since no plan for yet.
Bread oven here would be way too expensive for simply making 30+ buns a day. I did however get a bakery to come in and talk about making them
@@Handicappedvet the electrical infrastructure is not good there...a bread oven wouldnt work unless its in a area with there are more industrial sized applications.
@@ThatPhilippinesLife Getting put on as a regular customer with a bakery will be good for consistency and local relationship building. I ran a sandwich shop in Tampa for 15 years and we had a local bakery deliver our bread every morning!
@@Handicappedvet and that would need to double the kitchen again, and baking is a tough business for example a hamburger bun sells in retail for 12 pesos
why not get a local bakery to make your hamburger buns, there are so many around in the PI. That way you can also customize it and deliver it to your bar?
I was going say go to a local bakery and they be cheaper fresher
Yup and should be cheaper and you're giving business to a local bakery. Alot of restaurants in the US do this too.
He’s already looking into that
good idea. should be the same quality as the ones he buys.
@@Davirdcarrolone of the best ,bright idea.have that bread of your liking from local bakery.delivered right at your doorstep.
Michael, the first time you showed the restaurant before actually renting it, immediately I realized that the other half also should be covered with platic sheets or tarpaulin for summer and also for rainy season.
I have also done a beach shack in 2017, so I have a better idea. See if you can start "live music" if possible. If live music is not possible/feasible, just keep some good "karaoke system/setup" for customers to sing. That will also increase the business and its revenue.
What is the breakeven at this time and is it acheiving? How much did the structure cost?
So nice that you give my countrymen some job, its a big help.God bless.
The stress of business ownership. Is it worth it? Are you building a future or burying your self? Keep operating cost contained vs providing a high quality product and experience. Keep innovating or rely on what you’ve built so far and hope businesses keeps going up. It’s a big bite, done it many times, sometimes very successfully sometimes not. What is your time worth coralline all the hamburger buns in town and that’s 1 small item needing your attention. Delegation of duties is crucial and absolutely the hardest thing for a business owner to due as very few employees can or will perform at an owners level. You’ve done an amazing job, good luck on the future expansion.
It is not worth it unless its your passion. Thats why publicly traded companies were invented so other people do all for for you.
The buns you are using for the burgers are from the brand Angelina. They are based in Iloilo, and they also own Nicolette and Theo’s Restaurant which is located at SM City Iloilo
In Cebu Julies bakery is everywhere. That company must know how to get their goods out on time.
Mike, your business sense continues to impress me.
All the best!
I like that you are explaining your background and how you have the experience. Watching your channel is great but I like the fact that you have a PLAN.
Agree with the comments about the buns. Look for 1-2 local bakeries. Lot's of places make pandesal and white bread. They should be able to make burger buns or worst case google the receipy. If you give them a fixed amount of business and set quality standards they should be able to supply you regularly and eventually cheaper than what is sold from other areas. That reminds me you can also check the label and see if you can contact the manufacturer of the buns you currently buy and see if it's worth sourcing directly, e.g. they are close enough so you can pick-up or deliver cheaply. Custom buns would add another level to your burgers. Brioche buns, etc. Just not sure of your volume but a local shop would be your best bet. GL!
Collaborate with local businesses to provide what u need..like bakery, collaborate with the farmer, fishermen and poultry..collaborations! It will be cheaper...and you are helping the locals.
@@gentledaisy we have been trying it's not as easy as it seems out of stock is normal and no one is concerned to say to you, don't have any today...hard to rely on that
I must say that your Philippines-related content is quite captivating and stands out among others. ✅️✅️✅️
Instead of running around looking for supplies you could just tell the customers “sorry sir that not available” or “sorry sir we are out of stock” 😂. You’d blend right in. Seriously though, you could just hire someone to bake buns for you every couple of days. That way you’re sure to not run out and it will probably end up being less expensive.
Mike, when will the beer kegs be available for the tap? Cleaning and sterilizing the draft and gas lines and other crevices will be a daily hustle. Microbial growth and bio-film formation is really fast in a tropical outdoor temperature. Otherwise for discerning beer connoisseurs, skunky off-flavors, haze etc will be noticeable.
Well, from internet pictures they have those San Miguel bottled beers exposed in the sunlight UV everyday anyway and no one complain about the lightstruck skunky aroma. Maybe it's all good as long as there's perceptible alcohol content. :)
Great video btw! I really enjoy the informational type videos, especially when it comes to business and travel! I’m sure you knew all about supply issues prior to opening… one thing I would do is “Meal of the Day” type promotion…. Make it a special and it would really help when you are short on certain items because you would make the Special something that you have plenty of stock, and it would entice people to not go after a hamburger when you only have 4 buns, and only the people that really want a burger will get one…just an idea
I appreciate you sharing your journey with us Michael, especially all these deeper details of life there. You have a great 'can do' attitude and spirit and are inspirational to me. Thank you.
Brother, first thing. Make a small brick oven that you can have outside, and every day match a batch of dough and make your own burger rolls, it is so much easier then people might tell you. I helped my buddy start a Fry house in Eastern Europe, with the same issues you have where you are. And a simple recipe is all you need. You can make about 30 buns a batch depending on what you build and the size you want to go.
Excellent video! I enjoy following your journey. 👏👏
you should also consider what happens if you get into a business dispute as a foreigner in another country. business disputes always occur over time and volume of trade. be careful and stay strategic unless its a lifestyle business.
Once again, liking your video from the shores of Lake Superior while on vacation.
Keep 🇨🇦 Canada 🇨🇦 proud.
Well said Mike - very enlightening…you have obviously done your homework :)
Wishing you much success! If I’ve learned nothing in business, I do know this…treat your employees well and they will be very loyal to you. Of course, we know there is always the exception to this rule. Amping!
You created the supply problem. This is because you created your menu from the top down instead of the ground up. You based the menu on your favorite dishes instead of properly researching what ingredients are easily available or have reliable suppliers.
It is very important that you have recipee cards for each dish on your menu...and these cards will contain important information about ingredients (and portion control) and the suppliers (and alternative suppliers) for each ingredient. Phone numbers for all or your suppliers should also be on each recipee card. These written cards are a system that will take some of the pressure off you and help the bar to be managed in your absence. They also ensure that your dishes remain profitable because of portion control and that your recipees are properly documented in the event that your chef quits or fails to show up. Some bars also use recipee cards for their cocktails.
Ask yourself....what is the point of promoting signature dishes when the recipee for those dishes remains inside the head of your chef. What happens if he walks...or demands an unrealistic pay rise? The same issue applies to your head bar tender.
And don't forget, chefs always quit when your restaurant is busy.
You need to start getting some written systems in place.....today.
Otherwise you have not created a business, just a stressful managerial job for yourself that you do not have a visa for.
"Double the size of the place"....how are you going to scale your business if you have no documented systems in place?
You will never have the right people in place. Only the right systems.
You know your onion's pal and the system you speak of is absolutely invaluable.
Wow - this is amazing! Thank you!
I was a chef for 16 years Proofing bread there is probably even easier because it’s warm and moist, which is exactly what you want when you’re proofing bread
You are rockin it brother!
5:54 The first thing to come to my mind was...local bakery for buns. Dude...Beaver Buns! The best buns this side of the Mariana Trench!
Hilarious!
In Iloilo you can contact many local bakeries to make your buns for burger. Just go to local bakeries in Roxas and asked them if they can give you supply. Or twice a week you asked someone to go to Iloilo to get supply. Roxas is a nice city but you can find everything you need in Iloilo.
I really enjoy watching your videos, keep up the great work 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽
You need to make your own.
@@cjanvier1536 at 12 pesos per bun retail the cost to produce our own would be too prohibitive, too much capital investment into an over and too much space unfortunately
@@ThatPhilippinesLife see above rent night time space from restaurants like they do here.
Thanks Mike, you just gave me an idea what to do in my retirement years. I thought that problem was resolved years ago. Maybe in the big city.
Great video! Love the idea that lawyers can't advertise. The US would be a far better place, with considerably lower healthcare costs. Edit: Hilarious! Start at 10:00 and 10:00-11:00 is actually breakfast. ;) I'm a business owner in the US and I feel for you. Loved it!
Is running around town purchasing business supplies 'overseeing' or working?
Thats why I invest only in stocks and let other people do all the work for me while Im sleeping or on the beach. Philippines have some great companies like Robinson, Ayala, Puregold, Jolibee, big banks and utilities like Manila Water and Manila Electric.
That way you also make much more money than any restaurants or bar can make over longer periods of time.
Jollibee often contracts local suppliers, including bakeries, to provide their buns. This approach helps them ensure freshness and support local businesses. I think that one bakery was Cakes, Eat, Cetera. Jollibee gave them the formula for their buns with an NDA and the bakery supplies them everyday with freshly baked buns. I think you can do that too, with a very small bakery in Roxas. You can ask La Fuerza bakeshop, Mama's bread, I forgot the others. Those are one of the oldest bakeries in Roxas.
They order thousands.
@@JonMotivationalRend Yes they do. That's why I was suggesting to Michael to look for those smaller bakeries in Roxas to do the job. 50 - 100 buns or more a day and have them delivered would be a good deal.
@Scamander1417 maybe they will do it, but it will be based on numbers to be worthwhile. The good thing is that profit margins are normally low with smaller businesses. But I'm sure the Baker will want you to pay more per bun.
I had heard of the 13 month year. It's why so many places have crap staff. They only keep employees 6 months or so. Hopefully you go for it, and keep good staff.
The people you are purchasing from clearly have a supply line that you are not aware of.
That's pretty friggin' awesome Michael that you share quite a bit of information (info that costs through lawyers) about Filipino business law. Your info makes it easier for someone to make that 'push' as you say to start a business in the Philippines. Awesome video brotha!
Very informative. Always admire your videos…,
Just a suggestion mate, take it as you like, maybe if you can find a bakery in Roxas and maybe you can get them to make your own burger buns and bread, just a thought, keep up with the hard work, just don’t burn yourself out 👍🇦🇺
Thats the issues in PH.. there’s nowhere to get quality stuff like buns and other materials for a particular business..the first time i moved back to Ph from Australia i was dismayed in just my first few months..everything is difficult, You need to have miles and miles of patience..You need to know all the Filipino Saints for you to pray whenever you’re down.😂
This was super helpful and very informative Michael. Thank you for the explanation. Now the only question is how you create sysco type foodservice and make a profit because many will source locally to save costs. However everyone knows that what is on any menu in the Philippines isn't always available because they lack the food logistics you reference.
Bottom line, think long and hard about doing business in PH
So if you have a long-term lease and your business goes out of business, what is the consequences of that situation? Do you have to buy out your lease? Is there a clause that if your business is not successful, the lease is cancelled
😮 Lots of eager commenters within 60 minutes of posting. I guess, Mike, you definitely have a reality UA-cam TV show now. Thousands are definitely addicted to the Beaver aka Kardashian show.
😂😂
I would contract manufactures of products directly to get critical access to business supplies. There are US corporations who refuse to allow small start ups to purchase products directly from them. Hasbro is a nightmare. They use excuses to keep products flowing to middle man vendors meanwhile using excuse like you need a business license to purchase products from them directly.
Good info for anyone starting a business. It is not easy here to do that as there are so many rules and things you need to do.That extra months pay at the end of the year is basically like vacation pay in Canada. In and around Dumaguete there are a few bakeries that make burger and hot dog buns and when they have them they don't last long. So perhaps getting a bakery to make the buns will work for you. I am not sure about the lawyer thing you were talking about as Pea has her lawyer friend on her channel several times and even posts her info in the comments. Like someone else said if you can colaberate with some local businesses you should be able to keep a good supply. You have fishing boats right there so you should be able to get fresh fish all the time. I have a friend who lives on the beach and he gets fresh fish from the fishermen when they come in and delivered right to his door. I know you will work it out just takes time to get to know where you can get what and keep a good supply
here in Sj ca they rent restaurants at night to make catered food for companies.
there must be a pandesal baker in town you can work with for your bread/buns. Work with them and tell them what you want/need and maybe you can even get a volume cost discount from them
One of the first expat videos I watched included these guys (all American) discussing what they miss from back home. Other than the infrastructure, which includes reliability of things, the thing they talked about most was the food. They all like the food in the PH but miss things they enjoyed back home and can't get there. The first thing that came to my mind was 'business opportunity', a market demand. I realize there are reasons others aren't filling the need or, want, but as an American I tend to have an entrepreneurial mind. When I spot a problem I also see an opportunity to be the guy that provides a solution. My mind first went to running a cafe that specializes in western, or even just American, foods. Immediately I realized the issue is getting the supplies/ingredients you need to do that. Then I thought about just importing/exporting various snacks or whatnot that expats miss most and just sell them online. I'm not naive enough to think I'm the first one to spot these ideas. My only point here is that whenever I discover some shortage, issue, lack or void somewhere I think of that as an opportunity to answer the demand. I think there is a way to improve upon all these infrastructure shortcomings and enterprising people will find better ways or provide what is needed.
This is part of the development of that area as I see it. It's not just building condos and installing more AC units. There's a ton of room for improvement and yes perhaps being the vendor or such for some of this could be an early step in vastly improving the logistics for ALL other businesses, and even retail shoppers. I have heard so many complain that you can't rely on anything on a menu actually being available at any given time. I think this supply issue is a huge part of that. Yes, people do say it's not that bad in Cebu, BGC, Manila, etc., but all the places further out depend on a lot of transport to get stock from those places out to the other islands, etc..
Obviously all these problems have challenges to overcoming them but I do believe that enterprising people will answer the call and figure it out. This could be the biggest contribution some westerners make, though probably not retirees living on Soc. Sec., guys like Michael here and others that see the obstacles as opportunities. I'm not saying that the answers can't or won't come from Filapinnos, only that I suspect this sort of mindset is probably more common among westerners. If there is anything we might be able to bring to the table, perhaps this is it.
Really wish you all the luck in your business venture.I also hope and pray your business partner (s)don’t take advantage of you.Good luck!!
Have 1 of your staff be the runner for the veg etc ..speak to the supplier to supply you a certain quantity every week..find a bakery or private baker that can do your burger buns from home..there must be someone that will do it
What was your start up cost to get the restaurant going? Permits,rent, employee pay and everything else.
You may want to find a local bakery shop and consign your burger buns with them. That way, you won't ever run out of burger buns, plus, they'd be cheaper and fresher.
Wish they were that protective over jobs here in America.
Ya, employers need to stop exploiting immigrants, I agree
I personally would hire a baker, buy an oven, and make your own baked goods, such as the hamburger buns. One of my favorite restaurants in the U.S., Der Dutchman, has a bakery and they not only make all of the baked goods for their restaurant, but have their baked goods in the lobby which people always buy to take home as they’re leaving.
Buns are very easy , if I can do it you can😂 plus it's enjoyable to do and the smell of the baking will attract customers 😊
Excellent video!! Great information about things that many do not know about. Seems like a lot of hurdles to get over to understand the ins and outs of operating a business in the Philippines.
Also how hard was it to get a business visa so you can work? So you can own a business as long as you are not working? Very interesting visa rules.
i think it's more common knowledge than you think. There is a reason why most foreigners won't even try.
Mike, I started a restaurant business on remote island in Greece, successful for 17 years. My suggestion for fairly long term solution is find some secure freezer storage, either with a company or put something in your yard at home, so you can buy or produce some bulk, which hopefully can reduce some cost of food. I was lucky I had storage, usually when stuff was cheap i bought extra, like fresh tuna, canned goods, bread.
Sounds risky AF where he is, with power outages they probably have.
In the Philippines, if your business capital is from 200,000 USD or above you can register your business under your name only without the need for a Filipino partner. I do recommend opening a salon for full service like the way in Thailand where they can do everything regardless of beautification for men and women, and all you need is to provide all the tools and find expert training Filipinas. Watch some UA-cam of Vietnamese Salon in Thailand, and you will know exactly what I’m talking about as a backup income for you. The best location for that business will be in Makati, an iconic spot. People in Manila are classy, and they do care about the shape of their look. It’s your choice after all.
@@Abdul.. except retail business, "Under the RTLA, the minimum paid-up capital for foreign retail investments has been reduced to ₱25 million, from the previous US$2.5 million (₱125 million)." So now it's 427k usd
Offer Patty Melts on the menu as well. Easy to toast "regular" white sliced bread.
Or sliders on the menu too. Just a thought.
Definitely need to make your own buns ❤
Thanks
Thank you so much! Very appreciated
I'd love to hear specifically what licenses and such you need and how owning a business like this affects your visa status.
Retail business cant get you any visa because you cant directly own a retail business unlike other industries where you can have your name directly on the company. will fo the members video soon on details
You can actually bake your own buns it is more easier and consistent for your beaver burgers😊.
Hard to source western food stuffs here. Wholesale accountant S&R is a huge help. They are right about using a local bakery for burger and hotdog buns. Shopkeepers and zada are pretty good, but the sellers run out of stock when you need it the most. We make our own mozzarella and ricotta here. Buns and Italian bread are easy too. Do them the b
Night before or come in early in the morning. Hard when you close late.ilo ilo is the closest. Monthly road-trip
Look for a local bakeshop there and have a conservation of what kind of hamburger buns are u looking for,have u been to cakes etcetera ?down Legaspi St. a local bakeshop.
For stock I would rent or borrow a truck and send someone or yourself to iloilo once a week and pickup everything you need. Only use in town for things that run out during that week.
Thanks 👍
the fact that there are no supply delivery companies is just that the sourcing on an Island like Panay is terrible and it is in the hands of huge cooperations, I know this from a friend who has a restaurant in Kalibo. To solve your hamburger bun shortage I can only recommend to seek a local bakery in your area and let them produce (and maybe delivery?) for you? Also when it comes to to meat sourcing, look for a local butcher that can delivery you maybe fresh or frozen meat with consistant quality. But, what I am talking, you are a smart man, you will figure something out. Anyway, I will visit your bar in November and I am hungry, so get it sorted, my friend :-) keep on banging! All the best, you are doing a great job! Take care!
Absolutely!
Can you also buy Loafs of White Bread sliced 🍞 in case you run out of Hamburger Buns and sell them as Classic Hamburger Melts or Chicken Sandwich Melts? 🥪 Honestly I prefer my Hamburger or Chicken Sandwich with two slices of bread because it is a lot less white bread dough then regular Hamburger buns. If you have a regular Toaster you can Toast both Slices of bread and add a bit of Butter to both slices or you can add Mayonnaise to both slices and it comes out excellent. It is called Texas Toast if you add Butter. You can also advertise it as Texas Toast Burger if you toast it and add Butter. I do not know if this helped but I figured suggesting this option would not hurt.
It is easier to do business in big cities..there are heaps of suppliers for you to choose.
Funny how I know of the things you speak of.
However, a large chain (250+ locations) here pays employees 300 per day ~ period. There's no overtime unless they work on a holiday. Nine & 1/2 and 10 hour shifts. Paid meals? Hahaha
My BetterHalf does make certain that they keep up the SS and Fiilcare.
Thirteen month? LOL! She does push for 1 week paid vacation. Oh BTW, this outfit also charges employees if inventory in their assigned area is out of stock or has expired dates.
Also, they charge all store employees a penalty if the inventory count is short.
Years ago she worked for another well known family that owns restaurants at all Robinson Place malls. She then worked in their large department store. (Not Robinson... I know better than to name these businesses.)
Same crap went on in those large well known businesses.
Wish you luck.
As an Expat tourist you definitely have challenges in owning a business in the Philippines. It is not fair that your competitors will likely not be so good to their employees. So you will have more overhead than the competition. 😢
Micheal workout a contract with a local philippino bakery to make hamburger buns for your Daily by weekly what you would need on daily bases depending on projections Thurs Fridays Saturday and Sundays will be more customers on those days. Hope this Suggestion Helps
You mentioned that a small business should not start as a POS. Please explain what is a POS? I am assuming it is a Point Of Sale business?
Why would you want to open a restraunt bar in phili with supply issues like that
If you only need 30 buns a day and they say that the burger is the selling point of the business how can you stay in business
start baking your hamburger buns & bread for sandwiches. I am sure you can easily source out the ingredients - flour, yeast, sugar. That way, you have better control over your supply.
Starting/owning a business in the Philippines is really not that problematic. My Filipina wife, of 12 years, and I own residential property, from which we earn a considerable monthly income. We also own commercial property. We operated a coffee shop and and a store, near a hospital, so we got a decent regular through trade, but we then chose to lease the properties out to local Filipina business-people. They pay their rent on time, they make a living and that is all we or they care about. We obeyed the laws and abided by the regulations. We own the land so ultimately it is still ours. The people who run the business have decent, long-term leases so everybody wins.
If buns not available at a local bakery, delete hamburger. Gardenia makes great wheat bread to make a patty melt in two or three styles. They'll love it ❣️
You might be able to get Angelina to deliver buns to your shop from their main bakery in Iloilo. I know they produce a lot for groceries all over Panay but they might cater small businesses too. :)
I think it's great how you look after your staff you could get away with paying them less but you like to be a good employer. You keep saying it's because if you want the best people you have to pay well and although that's true I think it has more to do with you being a nice guy and actually caring about your staff.
Hey mike why not contract a bakery to supply you burger buns it will be much cheaper, just a suggestion thanks.
He’s looking into that
I gave you a thumbs up for effort but I don't agree with accountant cuz there's too much software that does that if you have any decent knowledge but lawyers are a good thing. Thank you for 😂 information
CAN U CONTACT A BAKERY THERE AN HAVE THEM MAKE THE HAMBUGER BUN FOR U THAT FITS U R STANDARD
The best business in the pines is a machine welding shop no credit. food is is also good , you can buy a bread bun making machine which are small 4 at a time .
It is all about the raw mater🎉🎉ials bro. Since the labor is cheap, try bake your personal bread that is unigue to your persoal experience...Good luck on your personal life journey..
Cakes etc they make hamburger bun and hotdogs bun here in roxas city. Jolibee gets their bun there.
Approx. $10 to $15 per day per staff member vs $15 to $17 per hour per staff member in Canada... small biz like yours with pricing at half or 1/3 of what it costs in Canada I can see it still making a profit with labour so cheap. When I see places like Starbucks and other businesses charging western prices but paying local wages I avoid, knowing that the those companies are completely taking advantage.
@@randysalerno6274 they really are massive profit centers! For me it's the material costs. For example a carrot is 70 pesos for a single carrot! 1.75 Canadian!
Complex
How much for a combo meal? Burger, fries and soda?
Questions what is the visa process like, what visa do you have to get if your a small business would they give you a business visa or is there another type?
lots of local bakeries there in roxas ... Jollibee I believe is having cakes eat etc taking care of their buns.
Not available sir
Can you please share what lawyer firm you used to start your business, and the accountant firm please.
Hello,how aboit you can meet with the supplier ,the van of that bread ,deliver direct to your store.
Just curious, what camera are you using in this video because even with the motorboat in the background I could still hear your voice?
There is no way, Not Supply and demand, Thats just the start if it all, to many get robbed blind from worker’s. Stick with farming. God Bless
Your business is now listed on Google Earth. With a photo looking at the seating area, in the direction toward the road. Did you do that?
Grew up in a restaurant-- get your own baker -- even if it someone from home -- as long as she has a freezer she can make a good supply for you
Make your own buns.
Hi love your chanel. One solution to your issue sourcing the hamburger buns is to talk to your local bakery pandesal store and tell them to make you hamburger buns and have a par order every day. The Filipino buns are similar to you regular hamburger buns but just smaller and just tell them to make it bigger. I'm a retired chef and fortunately I'm financially secure but just to keep myself occupied I'm also involved in business here in the Philippines. In my experience because of their limitations financially most of the locals buy mostly essentials if they can even afford that consistently. So most of my businesses here in the Philippines is concentrated on essential goods and services. Philippines is a very though place to do business because every person is pinching pennys. I joke all the time in America you can own a hot dog stand and potentially become a millionaire, not here in the Philippines.
At what point does the Phils mafia stop by for their cut?
PHL mafia? It's Rhetoric just a myth non-existent sterio typing that started with American ingenuity swinging at air ball.