Encouraging SME’s To grow and expand



It is a fact that majority of the businesses in the Philippines are SME based. By definition small is categorized with asset of Php. 3,000,001 to Php. 15,000,001 and having between 10 to 99 employees. On the other hand Medium is classified as Php. 15,000,001 to Php. 100,000,000 with 100 to 199 people. Many agencies be it government, private and NGOs are focused in helping the SMEs. There is always a constant need to nurture this sector, as it will spell a robust economy aside from the creation of employment.



Now on its 3rd year The Philippine SME and Franchise Expo., is organized by Tradecon a Philippine based events company. Ms. Mildred Caballero, Managing Director of Tradecon has teamed up with the country’s acclaimed Franchise Guru, Armando “Butz” Bartolome. A former OFW, Bartolome established a business called GMB Franchise Developers Inc. Together with his spouse Lyndah, their 19-year-old company has assisted many micro entrepreneurs become big names in the industry. Many people may not be aware but the couple works behind the scenes in encouraging SMEs. Brands like Mang Inasal, Laybare, Fiorgelato, Generika, Freska, Julies, Baliwag Lechon Manok, Bibingkinitan, Cut Encarnacion, El Buono Pizza, Chicco D Café, Vcargo, Bayad Center and Chicharrific are names with instant recall and popularity. In fact, they have even brought Potato Corner beyond the shores like United States and other countries.



Bartolome whose favorite slogan is “Your Growth Potential My Passion” had to face numerous challenges during the early stages of the business. With lessons, he began to share and mentor entrepreneurs. He knew that the way to a man’s heart is to teach him how to fish. Thus he became so passionate that he often travels (air land and sea) to give seminars to almost every town in the country. During his stint overseas in the early 80’s, he saw how Franchising could be an effective tool in expanding a business. This became his battle cry to convince entrepreneurs to try and see the results. Aside from public seminars, he and his wife began to write articles in magazines like Entrepreneur, SME of Planters Bank and other periodicals such as Business Mirror. They too have published books of which the most recent is entitled “Is Franchising For You?”.







With the clamor for seminars, Bartolome branched out and started Franchise Institute of the Philippines (FIP). His aim is pursue for more awareness on Responsible Franchising. More and more programs are in the pipeline to establish alliances with different institutions like colleges and NGOs.





Bartolome is one of the chosen Angelpreneurs of the popular Go Negosyo. This is a group of entrepreneurs who volunteer their time to rub elbows with people from all walks of life.



On October 27 to 29, 2011 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Bartolome has taken time out to meet and share ideas and success stories with visitors. There are also other dynamic speakers invited to give a free seminar on topics like trademark, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and even how to be a successful franchisee.



For more information regarding the expo, call TRADECON, INC. at 395-5137; 395-5137; 343-3368 or e-mail at events.tradecon*gmail.com or register at Philippine SME and Franchise Expo for FREE ADMISSION.