How to support someone who is grieving: five research-backed strategies 
CK Hutchison Launches Arbitration After Panama Court Revokes Canal Port Licences 
Alphabet’s Massive AI Spending Surge Signals Confidence in Google’s Growth Engine 
SoftBank Shares Slide After Arm Earnings Miss Fuels Tech Stock Sell-Off 
Baidu Approves $5 Billion Share Buyback and Plans First-Ever Dividend in 2026 
The pandemic is still disrupting young people’s careers 
Debate over H-1B visas shines spotlight on US tech worker shortages 
Tencent Shares Slide After WeChat Restricts YuanBao AI Promotional Links 
Can your cat recognise you by scent? New study shows it’s likely 
What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant 
Oil Prices Slide on US-Iran Talks, Dollar Strength and Profit-Taking Pressure 
Parents abused by their children often suffer in silence – specialist therapy is helping them find a voice 
Amazon Stock Rebounds After Earnings as $200B Capex Plan Sparks AI Spending Debate 
Japanese Pharmaceutical Stocks Slide as TrumpRx.gov Launch Sparks Market Concerns 
Rio Tinto Shares Hit Record High After Ending Glencore Merger Talks 
Office design isn’t keeping up with post-COVID work styles - here’s what workers really want 
Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) has acquired a dominant share in its Hong Kong master franchisee, solidifying its global culinary position. This move aligns with JFC's strategic vision for brand growth in key markets.
In a stock exchange disclosure, JFC revealed that its Singapore-based unit, Golden Plate Pte. Ltd., finalized the deal on September 1st. It secured 60% ownership of master franchisee Meko Holdings Ltd. for $16.08 million.
Golden Plate, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd., under the umbrella of JFC, will now take an active role in managing the operations of the Jollibee brand in Hong Kong. The remaining 40% of Meko's shares will remain owned by the existing franchisee's shareholders, ensuring continuity and preserving the local stakeholders' involvement.
JFC initially revealed its plans for the acquisition in April, stating that Hong Kong holds great strategic importance for the brand. With this finalized transaction, JFC holds a 60% stake in the once-fully franchised market.
Hong Kong, known for its diverse culinary landscape and popularity among local consumers and tourists, aligns perfectly with JFC's vision to elevate the Jollibee brand to new heights within a mainstream market.
As of June, the JFC store network has expanded by an impressive 5.1%, solidifying its position as a global player. The company operates 6,617 stores worldwide, with 3,287 stores in the Philippines and 3,330 stores across various international markets.
Following the announcement, JFC witnessed a slight dip in its stock price, with shares dropping by P1.20 or 0.5% to close at P238.80 each. JFC's acquisition of the majority stake in the Jollibee brand's Hong Kong franchisee signals its commitment to expanding its presence in key markets.
By taking advantage of the fast-growing food industry and leveraging its iconic brand, JFC continues to position itself as a leading player in the global culinary landscape.
