In partnership with The Bistro Group, Hard Rock International is bringing the brand’s one one-of-a-kind blend of music, entertainment, iconic merchandise and authentic, American fare back to the Philippines. The opening was recently announced by both companies following a signed agreement appointing The Bistro Group as the brand’s exclusive franchisee in the country. Hard Rock Cafe at Conrad S Maison in Pasay City is slated to open in December 2018.
“The Bistro Group is a strong industry player and with its robust portfolio of brands, as well as its track record for more than 20 years, we are confident that they will be a strong partner to help us take Hard Rock to the next level in the Philippines,” said Steve Yang, Area Vice-President, Asia-Pacific Franchise Development and Operations.
“Hard Rock has been in the market for 48 years and we are thrilled to continue to grow our business in the Philippines,” said Anibal Ferndandez, Hard Rock’s Vice-President, Franchise Operations and Development. “Exciting things are happening at Hard Rock Cafe and we want to expand our presence in high-growth markets frequented by locals and tourists. In 2017 alone, we launched cafes in Spain, Austria, South Africa, Andorra, Bolivia, India, Cambodia, Myanmar, Argentina andNicaragua. In 2018, we are developing in Africa, Middle East, Europe, North and South America, South Asia and China, among others.”
Steve Yang and Anibal Fernandez made a visit to Manila recently to check the site and meet with The Bistro Group executives.
Jean-PaulManuud, President and COO of The Bistro Group, stated, “We believe that this collaboration will spark growth for both The Bistro Group and Hard Rock Cafe. Having the brand in our family is indeed an achievement for us and Hard Rock is an iconic institution that is recognized widely. Its logo alone is easily the most recognizable the world, so we are very optimistic and excited over its forthcoming opening.”
The Bistro Group is a trailblazer in the local casual dining segment, developing and managing local and global restaurants for over two decades.
With preparations for the new cafe in full swing, the 653 sqm, 223-seaterManila branch will carry the trademarks of Hard Rock Cafe that make it one of the most exciting, sophisticated and energetic brands in the world.
“Music, memorabilia, merchandise, food andservice – all these things make Hard Rock Cafe unique,” explained Fernandez.
The new cafe also plans to launch a new menu following the opening.
“We are eager to offer guests a new menu that tap into consumer demands and trends. Hard Rock Cafe at S Maison will have lighter items, shareable dishes andbig portions, while maintaining the quality and fresh ingredients that our guests have come to expect from Hard Rock. In the end, our global philosophy is about taking care of our guests and taking care of our people who are most important for us,” said Fernandez.
About The Bistro Group
The Bistro Group is a collection of international hospitality casual dining brands and home-grown concepts unified by a people-focused philosophy that is the backbone of their success.
At The Bistro Group, everything is done with passion and commitment – Passion in every restaurant concept launched and every international chain brought to local shores, behind every innovative dish prepared, and with every service rendered with a smile. They love what they do and they want guests to feel the same passion and love in every Bistro restaurant they visit.
www.bistro.com.ph
About Hard Rock International
With venues in 74 countries, including 185 cafes, 27 hotels and12 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's most valuable collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney andDubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the company’s two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, FL., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida, as well as other exciting locations including Atlantic City, Bali, Cancun, Daytona Beach, Ibiza, Orlando, Shenzhen andSan Diego. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations includeMaldives, Manila, Malaga, Georgetown, Fortaleza, Rosario and Chengdu. New Hard Rock Hotel, Casino or Hotel & Casinoprojects include Berlin, Budapest, Desaru Coast, Dublin, London, Los Cabos, Maldives, New York City, Ottawa, Sacramento, Dalian and Haikou in China. In 2018, Hard Rock International was recognized as a Forbes Magazine Top Employer for Women. For more information on Hard Rock International visit www.hardrock.com.
