Rufo’s Famous Tapa (or simply Rufo’s) is aggressively pursuing the implementation of its expansion plans as it sets to open five more branches by October this year as announced by its president, Paul Izon Reyes. After signing up  new franchises, construction  of new stores  in SouthPark Highs in Las Piñas,  A.Venue in Makati, Saint Benilde in Vito Cruz,  Blue Wave in Macapagal, Pasay and at the SM Makati  Food Court is expected to go into full swing. Rufo’s  has branches in Kalayaan Ave., Makati; Shaw Boulevard and most recently in  Eastwood City  and in Pearl Plaza in Ortigas Center.
Reyes projects that by end of 2012,  there will be   15 Rufo’s branches in Metro Manila and nearby municipalities through its Rufo’s Famous Franchise Program.  Partnering with Francorp, the World Leader in Franchise Consultancy and with the help of PSBank’s supportive SME programs, Reyes plans to more than double that number by end of 2013.
Considered as one of today’s most progressive Filipino fast-casual dining restaurant chains, Rufo’s has been a favorite go-to place for delicious and affordable Pinoy dishes since its inception in 1984.  It was one of the few places open 24/7 and customers came at all hours of the day.
 But it was not until the concept was acquired in 2003 by  Reyes, (a self-confessed Rufo’s regular customer way back in his middle school and high school days at International School Manila near where the maiden store was located), that the company considered expansion through Rufo’s Famous Franchise Corp. (Rufocorp).
Under Reyes’ leadership and management, Rufo’s’ patronage increased considerably with the brand gaining more awareness and recognition in the restaurant industry. From 16 employees in 2003, Rufo’s now employs 120 people. It was featured as one of the more Promising Franchise Concepts in the 10th Anniversary Issue of Entrepreneur Magazine in 2010.
“We want to empower aspiring entrepreneurs by giving them the opportunity to enjoy financial freedom through our franchise program.  Ours is a viable franchise and investment.  We have our systems in place.  We are run professionally and efficiently in all aspects of operations -  from HR and training, to food preparation and safety, marketing and customer service,”  Reyes said. He believes that franchising is the best way to grow their business.  “We have numerous inquiries about franchising, even  as far as Boracay, Cebu and Davao.  We are very discerning about future franchisees because we want entrepreneurs who will be very dedicated to their stores, to be passionate about the brand and to be hands-on owners,” he explained.
Reyes said Rufo’s staying power in the highly-competitive restaurant landscape is due in large part to its food.  “Our tapa is unique because we serve it in Rufo’s Famous Sauce.  It is juicy and tender and with a sweet sauce that Filipinos love.  That’s why we have this slogan ‘Sauce Pa Lang, Ulam Na.’ That’s how delectable our food is,” Reyes said.  While the restaurant has expanded its menu to include other Filipino dishes ,its  signature  Beef Tapa or “Tapsilog”  remains the star and the bestseller to this day.  “We give people real, freshly-cooked food at the time they need it.  We are open 24/7, everyday for dine-in, delivery and take out.   We are accessible and affordable and we strive to walk the ‘extra mile’ in terms of service,” he added.
For inquiries about The Rufo’s Famous Franchise Program, contact 477-6652, 532-6335 or 533-1446 and look for Lala Alcantara or Ella Rompe. You may also visit their website at www.rufos.com.ph