Taguig city: The continued expansion of the domestic economy has prompted the Bounty Fresh Group to aim for 300 more Chooks-to-Go chicken outlets by the end of 2025. As some stores are expected to close, Bounty Fresh Group chief executive officer Kenneth Cheng anticipates ending up with approximately 2,000 locations, marking an increase of 200 from 2024.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cheng cited data from the Switzerland-based GIRA consultancy and research firm, indicating that domestic poultry consumption is forecast to rise to 2.5 billion kilos by 2028, up from the current 1.5 billion kilos. Cheng explained that over the next 25 years, total consumption could reach 4.5 billion kilos, driven by population growth, increased economic activity, and the affordability of meat products.

With this anticipated demand for chicken meat, Cheng highlighted the company's ongoing investments in both farm equipment and personnel. He emphasized the importance of innovation and technology to improve production, noting that domestic demand is better positioned compared to global levels.

In recent years, Bounty Fresh Group has shifted its focus from primarily establishing farms in Central and Southern Luzon to also addressing demand upticks in the Visayas and Mindanao. The company collaborates with contract farms to meet production goals for both their retail and restaurant businesses.

To ensure an adequate supply for the Christmas season, Bounty Fresh has already increased production as early as the third quarter to accommodate the annual surge in demand.