From a single bakery in Wireless, Mandaue City, Cebu, Julie’s has grown over the last four decades into the country’s largest neighborhood bakeshop with more than 600 stores nationwide. Known for its everyday fresh and affordable breads, Julie’s gives credit to its franchisees for the strong presence that the brand has built across communities.
In preparation for its 45th anniversary in 2026, Julie’s is eyeing further expansion into more barangays nationwide by making it easier for Filipinos to start a business and prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Multi-generational growth
Julie’s president and CEO Joseph Gandionco, son of founder Julie Gandionco, noted that a rising number of their franchisees are now involving their children and grandchildren in running their bakeshops.
Gandionco said that there are currently 16 multi-generational Julie’s franchisees all over the country. Some have inherited the original franchise from their parents or grandparents, while others have begun actively preparing their children to take over operations. Gandionco himself has also involved his children in the business, including his son Gio, who currently serves as regional director for Visayas.
For the older Gandionco, multi-generational ownership not only ensures continuity, but also solidifies the bakeshop’s connection with its community.
‘Multi-generational franchisees help keep Julie’s strong and connected to communities. By involving their families early, sharing the brand’s mission, and showing the rewards of the business, franchisees can inspire the next generation to take the lead,’ he explained.
‘Bread is a staple on every Filipino table, and remains a breakfast and merienda favorite. Being in the business of baking bread has proven resilient despite all the challenges throughout the years,’ Gandionco continued.
Setting up more bakeshops nationwide
Julie’s mission has since gone beyond bread, inspiring Filipinos to be entrepreneurs. ‘Our mission to feed Filipino communities is not only limited to our breads, but is also creating opportunities to become entrepreneurs. This was what my mother hoped for when she opened our first bakeshop in Wireless, Mandaue City,’ Gandionco said.
With a strong presence in Cebu, the brand is now targeting growth across Visayas, while also expanding in key markets in Luzon and Mindanao, according to Gandionco. Julie’s has also continued to add variety to its products based on the changing consumer preferences across markets.
In addition to traditional bakeshops, Julie’s is scaling up with mall kiosks and inline stores. Earlier this year, Julie’s launched its first inline store in Paco, Manila. Gandionco also revealed that plans are underway for new formats, which will be introduced in time for the company’s 45th year in 2026.
To encourage broader participation, Julie’s is currently offering a 50% discount on franchise fees, for up to P175,000 in savings for new partners. Franchise packages include a complete support system, including staff training and marketing assistance, for day-to-day operations.
As Julie’s grows its presence nationwide, the company is positioning its franchise model as an accessible and resilient investment opportunity.
‘Julie’s has been in the business for more than four decades, serving as a testament to its longevity. Our second- and third-generation owners and franchisees serve as a testament to the franchise being a good investment. They can attest to how our franchise packages offer an easy way to start a business and gain access to proven systems and full support every step of the way,’ Gandionco said.
Learn more about franchising opportunities with Julie’s by visiting their website and following their Facebook and Instagram pages to be the first to know about their new products and promotions.