Shawarma Shack, the Philippines’ leading shawarma chain with over 850 outlets, has opened its first international location in Singapore, choosing the city-state for its ease of business setup and strategic position in Asia. The first outlet launched on 30 July at Toa Payoh’s HDB Hub, with a second set to open in October at Poiz Centre, Potong Pasir. This expansion is part of the chain’s plan to use Singapore as a springboard for global growth.
Founded in 2015 by Walther Buenavista, Shawarma Shack began as a small food stall in Manila’s Divisoria market. It quickly gained popularity for its affordable, hearty meals, leading to rapid expansion across the Philippines. By 2018, the chain had opened its 100th store, and within a year, it had grown to 400 outlets. Buenavista attributes this success to the brand’s focus on providing delicious, value-for-money meals that cater to young professionals.
The Singapore outlets will offer a menu similar to that in the Philippines, featuring wraps, rice meals, and salad boxes with chicken and beef options. Prices start at $4.30 (S$5.90) for regular shawarma wraps, with the Classic Broasted Chicken Rice priced at $7.90 (S$10.90). The chain also plans to open five self-owned outlets in Singapore within the next year and is open to franchise requests.
Buenavista expressed optimism about the brand’s future in Singapore, stating, “We hope that Singaporeans will love our shawarmas and we look forward to a long and meaningful journey with our Singaporean landlords, staff, partners, and suppliers.” If successful, Shawarma Shack aims to expand further, establishing Singapore as its second headquarters.
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