Future franchise favorites? Funeral homes, drug rehab centers

MANILA, Philippines - Three new industries are expected to emerge under the Duterte administration — funeral homes, drug rehabilitation and drug testing centers and retirement businesses.

This is according to the country’s franchise industry experts.

In a press briefing Thursday, Samie Lim, chairman emeritus of the Philippine Franchise Association said the group has been receiving inquiries from funeral companies on the possibility of franchising.

“We’ve been getting inquiries,” he said.

Other industries seen emerging are in drug rehabilitation and drug testing given the Duterte administration’s fight against drug use.

Alan Escalona, president and CEO of Fruit Magic, said drug rehabilitation can be a lucrative business because drug use can be a very deep problem and it takes time and effort to rehabilitate a user.

“The history of a drug rehab dates back during the Marcos era. There are only a few people who are very patient (in running a drug rehab) so it can be a very lucrative business. Drug is a very deep issue,” he said.

“It can be a very good business but it’s 24/7 work. If rehab centers can be put up as a jumpstart then it’s possible. Possible cure for drugs is really really very difficult and the chances of being rehabilitated is low,” Escalona explained.

He said drug testing will also be done more often now given Duterte’s crackdown on drugs.

“There are only few authorised drug testing centers in the Philippines now.  Many are asking now if these (centers) are franchising. They are looking into  it because there are so many inquiries,” Escalona said.

Another industry that can also emerge is retirement centres for the aged.

He said that when Duterte is able to fulfil his promise that he would resolve the peace and order situation in the country, many of the elderly population would be comfortable retiring even in urban cities in Metro Manila.

In addition to the three industries, Lim said some companies in Davao may also expand in Metro Manila to enable other people to experience the taste of life in Davao such as its cuisine.

Led by Lim, the PFA held a briefing to rally support for its upcoming Franchise Asia Philippines 2016, dubbed as Asia’s biggest Franchise Show to be held from July 20 to 24.