When Shake Shack announced on its social media pages that it would be coming to the Philippines, the news spread like wildfire. “Mabuhay, Manila! Pack the Jeepney – we’re officially headed to the Philippines! We’ll be bringin’ the goods to the Pearl of the Orient in spring 2019. Let the countdown begin!” read their Instagram, Facebook and Twitter pages.
The Philippine Shake Shack is in partnership with Stores Specialists Inc (SSI), a luxury retailer that has brought in numerous fashion and lifestyle brands to the country including Gucci, Givenchy, Tod’s, Salvatore Ferragamo, Hugo Boss, Marks & Spencer, Pottery Barn, and Starbucks to name a few.
In an interview with Philippine Star, SSI Group President Anton Huang disclosed, “SSI’s mission has been to bring the best of the world to the Filipino consumer. [W]ith the success of Shake Shack in the United States, its recent success in Asian markets, and its worldwide cult following, a partnership with Shake Shack was definitely down our alley.”
“Manila is an incredible city; its heart beats with a distinct warmth and hospitality,” added Michael Kark, Vice President of Global Licensing at Shake Shack. “We are excited to begin the search for our first site in Metro Manila and look forward to becoming part of this community.”
While the location is yet to be disclosed, what we do know is that Shake Shack will be working with “local purveyors and producers” to create their signatures in Manila like the ShackBurger, Shack-cago Dog, classic crinkle-cut fries, wine, and frozen custard ice cream. It is set to open in the first quarter of 2019.
