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Rising costs, changing tastes push Cebu-founded food firm to innovate

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Rising costs, changing tastes push Cebu-founded food firm to innovate

A Cebu-founded food service company is betting on stronger industry partnerships and localized solutions as restaurants, hotels, and bakeries continue to navigate rising costs and shifting consumer demands.

The company highlighted its expanding role as a supplier for the Philippine food service sector during the World Food Expo (WOFEX) 2026 held from July 29 to August 1 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Founded in Cebu in 2009, Global Pacific started with a single butter brand before expanding into a distributor of international food service products used by restaurants, hotels, cafés, and bakeries across the country.

The company now distributes a portfolio of global brands, including dairy, baking ingredients, sauces, chocolates, frozen pastries, and premium meat products, while also developing its own brands for the Philippine market.

Global Pacific Country Manager Errol Rivera of Martini Professional Philippines said the company’s long-term partnerships with suppliers have been built through collaboration and understanding of local market needs.

“Martini Professional and Global Pacific have built a strong partnership over the years based on transparency and collaboration,” Rivera said.

Beyond distribution, the company has increasingly positioned itself as a support partner for food businesses by providing technical demonstrations and product applications aimed at helping operators improve menus and manage costs.

During WOFEX, Global Pacific hosted cooking demonstrations featuring several of its partner brands, including a steak preparation session led by Chef Bruce Lim using Australian beef brand TEYS.

Lim highlighted how proper sourcing and cooking techniques can allow businesses to offer both premium and more affordable menu options without compromising quality.

“The quality of the beef and where it’s sourced will always influence the final result. With quality meat and the right technique, operators can confidently build menus that offer both premium and value options,” Lim said.

The company also showcased its local brands, including Bravo and Sunny Farms, which were developed based on the needs of Philippine food operators.

Marketing Manager Louren Chua-Sy said the company’s product development approach focuses on responding to challenges faced by customers.

“Because we’re constantly listening to operators and staying close to the market, we’re able to turn ideas into practical solutions much faster,” she said.

Global Pacific’s growth comes as the Philippine food service sector faces pressures from higher operating costs, changing consumer preferences, and the need for businesses to maintain competitive pricing.

Pastry Alliance of the Philippines President Chef Buddy Trinidad encouraged food entrepreneurs to remain mindful of pricing, portions, and ingredient choices while continuing to focus on the overall dining experience.

“Be mindful of your pricing. Be mindful of your portions. Be smart with your ingredients. Those are all important. But at the end of the day, people come back because of the memories you create and the emotional connection they have with your business,” Trinidad said.


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