siomai business plan introduction

The Thrifty Pinay

Author & Keynote Speaker of Finance, Women Empowerment; Empowering Women To Learn, Earn & Be Financially-Independent

How to Start a Siomai Business in the Philippines

By Ameena Rey-Franc

How to Start a Siomai Business in the Philippines:

Siomai is one of Asia’s most popular snack options. Before being hailed as a kanto -favorite appetizer in the Philippines, the origins of Siomai predate even before Magellan stepped foot in the country. Shaomai, as the Chinese describe it, originated in Inner Mongolia somewhere between the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing dynasties (1644-1912) of China. It reached the land of the rising sun where the Japanese called the steamed ball of meaty goodness Shumai . Until it reached the Philippines and became the siomai we all know and love.

With centuries building up to siomai’s popularity, it’s no wonder Pinoys are itching to get a bite whenever they see a vendor. If you’re interested but wondering how to start a siomai business in the Philippines, you came to the right place.

Is a Siomai Business profitable in the Philippines?

Before delving into the steps, it’s important to know if siomai is a good business, to begin with. When talking about siomai’s profitability, we have to look at the context surrounding it. Street food is an unceasingly popular business in the Philippines despite countless cautionary warnings from health bodies . Street food vendors rarely get zeroed out as long as there are students, office workers around, and bystanders around. It’s typically the usual suspects when talking about street food: fishball, kikiam, squid ball, kwek kwek, and siomai. 

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur on a budget, a siomai business is a perfect start. Why? Well, it’s simple but highly profitable. Heard of that broke couple turned rich thanks to their siomai business that grosses 50,000 daily? Siomai businesses require low capital but they’re capable of earning large profits. Always remember, as long as people eat, a food business will never run out of customers.

Here are the necessary steps when Starting a Siomai Business in the Philippines

1. Do some market research

Siomai businesses are great. But there’s a caveat to the success story I mentioned earlier. They first started with fishball, kikiam, and banana cue. Newsflash, all those start-ups failed. The reason is simple, they didn’t do initial market research . The siomai business they put up was a hit and miss . They lucked out with siomai that’s why they made a fortune. 

When starting a business, the last thing you want is to establish something that’s bound to fail. Sadly, many startups suffer the same fate. The success of your business relies on good market research to warrant the business’s potential. Siomai is a good business , no doubt. But does your potential market share the same proclivity for siomai as you do, or are you simply and blindly holding on to a hope that they are?

To get you started, here are some queries you might want to answer first for a siomai business in the Philippines:

• Who are your target consumers?

Siomai is popular among office workers, students, internet cafe addicts, and bystanders. Is your location swarming with those people? Are they keen to eat quick siomai snacks over other options?

• What are your target audience’s spending habits?

Do customers go out of their way to have some good siomai meals? Do they prefer siomai with sticks or with rice? Do prospects prefer meals delivered?

• What does the market look like?

Will you sell in the city or the suburbs? Do you need a physical store, a stall, or are made-to-order meals acceptable enough?

• Who are your competitors?

Are there existing siomai sellers in your locality? Is competing with them a good idea? What value proposition can you offer to make their suki choose your solutions instead? 

2. Prepare your capital

Capital is another reason why comprehensive market research is imperative when starting a siomai business in the Philippines. Think about it. If you require a physical store to etch your siomai brand in the locality, you’ll need more money to start with. The capital you’ll be using is the gasoline that’ll keep the business running. You’ll use it for funding the materials, expenses, and overhead. If you want a smoother launch, you need to calculate your startup costs . Doing so will also help you estimate your profitability and growth potential. This is where your market research is for.

Let me give you an example. Say, your market investigation reveals that made-to-order meals are better compared to setting up a physical stall. You will require less capital to start than having to shell out more funds for a stall that wouldn’t significantly sell better. Again, your business is anchored on good market research.

• Related Post: 14 Time-tested Tips for Online Selling in the Philippines

3. Plan and prepare everything

Information and data are used for one thing: to make the right decisions. With market research backing your decision-making process, you are likely to make the right choices and minimize errors.

For example, if setting up a stall is a better direction than made-to-order meals, there are things you need to be aware of:

• First, your location. The location you choose should be strategic, where you can maximize impressions and conversions.
• Second, physical stores can’t get away without a DTI business permit . Make sure you have your business registered.
• Third, assess your operational costs or overhead. There’s more to business than your cost of goods sold, you’ll have utility bills, rent, and possibly labor costs that can sweep you off your feet.

Don’t be hasty to jump on the business seat. Plan everything first otherwise your “siomai” might turn to “oh my!”

4. Buy the equipment needed

Once you’ve got your gameplan fully furnished, then, only then, do you buy your equipment and ingredients. Here is a simple list to help you out:

• Food steamer
• Paper containers
• Sauce dispenser 
• Acrylic plastic juicer

Ingredients:

• Ready-made siomai (unless you plan on making your own)
• Garlic flakes

Gulaman? Yes, that is, if you’re willing to offer some refreshing palamig to your suki which is an added income stream. Check out this gulaman recipe here .

5. Find suppliers

Selling siomai in the Philippines is quite straightforward. The ingredients and equipment you need are not difficult to find. If you live anywhere in the Metro, you can easily scour Divisoria to find all things you need at a bargain. If not, you can always visit your local supermarket or wet markets to buy them.

If you want to get all things you need from the comfort of your home, there are online marketplaces to buy your things. Shops like NegosyoNow sells both food and non-food items like packaging materials. While stores like MK Kitchen may sell the kitchen supplies you need for the siomai business. Otherwise, you can seek popular siomai chains instead that provide all the things you need after your initial payment.

6. Price your products right

The cornerstone of every successful food business is not ONLY the quality of the product but also the price. All things being equal, Filipinos will normally gravitate toward the most affordable option. If you have a competitor, you may want to double down on the quality and pricing strategy. That will ensure you corner the market for your siomai business.

A popular pricing strategy you may want to try is the cost-plus pricing strategy . Basically, your products should account for all operational expenses and overhead costs associated with selling the siomai. This way, all your markup will be allocated towards profits. Needless to say, be reasonable with your profit margin.

• Related Post: How to Compute & Price Food Products (w/ example) Philippines

7. Marketing is key

In this age of the internet, more than half of the population is engaged in social media . The only way to dominate your industry is by getting a leg-up on your competition. Take advantage of facebook’s free platform to promote your business to friends and colleagues. You can also use the messaging app to reach out and seek people who are keen to try out your food products. If you plan on opening a physical store, register your siomai shop to Google My Business. This will ensure that you stay ahead of your competition through local SEO .

If you’re looking for a full list on how to promote and market your siomai business effectively, check out our guide on 20 Ways to Promote & Market Your Business in the Philippines .

Best Siomai Suppliers in the Philippines

If you’re looking for the best suppliers to get siomai ingredients and equipment, on-site visitation is always the best course of action. However, if it can’t be helped, here are some online resources you can visit. Always make sure to legit check these suppliers to avoid getting scammed.

Kitchen equipment suppliers

• NegoPinoy Trading
• IBCOM Kitchen Equipment
• Catering Depot Philippines
• MJD Industries, Inc.

Siomai suppliers:

• ACM Frozen Food Products Suppliers
• Great Food Solutions
• Maco’s Meat Products Direct Supplier
• Princess & Stacey’s Frozen Food Supplier

Packaging suppliers

• Binondo Street
• Packaging Depot Manila
• Grand Champ Packaging

Best Siomai Franchises in the Philippines

Below are some of the best siomai franchises you can reach out to if you plan on setting up your own siomai business in the Philippines. Make sure to read reviews and check references before fully committing to fully assess what you’re getting into.

• Master Siomai

Phone Number: 287095288

Website: http://www.mastersiomai.com/  

• Siomai King

Email: [email protected]  

Phone number: 0923 604 8805

Website: https://jcfranchiseinternational.com/  

• Ideal Siomai

Email: [email protected]  

Phone number: 0935 336 2107

• Siomai House Bernabest

Email: [email protected]

Phone number: 287096237

Website: https://www.siomai.house/  

• Dimsum Factory

Phone number: 284424884

Website: http://shop.dimsumfactory.ph/  

Siomai business is one of the best low-cost, high-profit startups you can put up in the Philippines. However, there are many overlying layers that you need to accomplish first before startup. Furthermore, you if you plan to try selling other frozen food, check out our article on How to Start a Frozen Food Business in the Philippines . We hope this article helped you if you plan on starting your own siomai business in the Philippines.

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Ameena Rey-Franc is a best-selling author, sought-after keynote speaker, a graduate of the Registered Financial Planners program with a BS Accountancy degree under her belt. Her blog, The Thrifty Pinay, has been recognized as one of the top 10 best finance blogs to follow in the Philippines. With hundreds of speaking engagements nationwide, Ameena has trained Financial Literacy to employees of reputable companies such as GrabFoodPH, Insular Life, Pru Life UK, VISA, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Paypal, Fundline, Moneymax, and many more. She is known to move her audience with her well-thought-out, engaging, and easy-to-understand talks that include actionable plans. Her passion to educate has empowered thousands of Filipinos to build financial confidence, resilience, and achieve the life that they desire.

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• Small Business Ideas in the Philippines (2024) Business Ideas

How to Start a Siomai Business in the Philippines

By  Yesh Quijano     July 26, 2024       min read

Siomai is a popular snack in the Philippines and has become a staple in many households. With its increasing demand and relatively easy operations, it’s no wonder why many entrepreneurs are venturing into selling this delectable snack.

In this article, we will discuss the ins and outs of starting a siomai business, providing you with tips and strategies to help you succeed. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Siomai is a popular snack in the Philippines across all age groups.

Starting a siomai business can be profitable with the right strategies and information.

Some tips include finding the right location, creating a unique recipe, and marketing your product effectively.

Table of Contents

Is A Siomai Business Profitable In The Philippines?

The good news is that siomai is a very popular food item in the country, and is consumed by people of all ages.

This means that there is definitely potential for profit in selling it, having estimated profit margins ranging from 30% to 150% !

Street food vendors often remain busy, especially if they’re stationed near schools and offices. Common food favorites include fishball, kikiam , squid ball, kwek kwek , and of course, siomai.

For budding entrepreneurs on a tight budget, starting a siomai business is an ideal choice.

Not only is it straightforward to put up, but it also offers high-profit margins. Have you heard about the couple who went from being cash-strapped to raking in PHP50,000 daily with their venture?

How To Start A Siomai Business

Here are eight essential steps to get started in your new venture.

Research The Market

Prior to launching your business, it’s crucial to conduct market research to gauge the local demand for siomai.

You can gather information by visiting other dim sum businesses, talking to potential customers, and conducting surveys. While optional, you can also write a siomai business plan.

Pro Tip : Siomai is in high demand nearby schools, offices, or any location that has a lot of foot traffic.

Ensure You Have Sufficient Capital

You will need capital to purchase equipment, and ingredients, and rent a space or purchase a cart. Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover these expenses before getting started.

Siomai businesses will require capital as low as PHP 5,000 but may go up to PHP 30,000 and beyond.

Name Your Business

Select a memorable and appealing name that represents your brand and product effectively. Make sure the name is not already taken and is easy to remember.

Tip: Use this format to create a brand name: [ADJECTIVE] + [FOOD]. For example:

Master Siomai

Papu’s Siomai

Register Your Business

Register your business with the appropriate government agency to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. This will ensure that your business operates legally and avoids any legal issues.

Learn How To Make Homemade Siomai (Optional)

Learn how to make homemade siomai by researching recipes and techniques online, watching videos, or attending cooking classes. You can also experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique recipe. Alternatively, you can find a supplier online.

Kitchen equipment suppliers

NegoPinoy Trading

IBCOM Kitchen Equipment

Catering Depot Philippines

MJD Industries, Inc.

Food suppliers:

ACM Frozen Food Products Suppliers

Great Food Solutions

Maco’s Meat Products Direct Supplier

Princess & Stacey’s Frozen Food Supplier

Packaging suppliers

Binondo Street

Packaging Depot Manila

Grand Champ Packaging

This list of suppliers is taken from Thrifty Pinay . Credit for the list goes to her.

Purchase Essential Equipment

Purchase essential equipment such as a steamer, cutting board, knives, and other kitchen utensils. You may also need to purchase a freezer and refrigerator to store your ingredients.

Find A Good Location

Find a good location for your siomai business that is easily accessible and visible to potential customers. Consider renting a space in a busy market or near a school or office.

Tip : If you’re tight on a budget, a food cart is a cheaper alternative to renting a space. Based on my research, carts only cost PHP 6,000 to PHP 8,000 on Carousell .

Market Your Product

Market your business on Facebook and Instagram. To promote your business, you can try offering seasonal discounts, promotions, and loyalty programs to encourage repeat customers.

Tips For A Successful Siomai Business

Find The Price Sweet Spot

Pricing your products just right is crucial to the success of your business. You want to make sure that your prices are competitive enough to attract customers, but also high enough to cover your costs and make a profit.

Research the prices of similar businesses in your area and aim to match or slightly undercut them. For example, if a nearby Master Siomai stall sells Pork and Shrimp Siomai (4pcs) at PHP 55, you can sell yours at just PHP 45.

Consider Offering Refreshments

While siomai is a favorite food for many, customers may also appreciate having refreshments available to complement their meals. Consider offering drinks such as gulaman or iced tea to enhance the dining experience. This is also a nice boost to your sales and profits.

Be Consistent In Quality And Operating Hours

Consistency is key to building a loyal customer base. Make sure that the quality of your food remains consistent and meets the expectations of your customers. Use fresh ingredients and ensure that it is prepared and cooked properly.

In addition, be consistent in your operating hours. Ensure that your business is open during the hours that you have advertised and that you are ready to serve customers when they arrive. This can help build trust and reliability with your customers.

Wrapping Up

To wrap this up, I’d like to share this quote from Teresita Barrientos of Ayo’s Siomai. Teresita has been a siomai seller for 17 years and started with just a PHP 600 capital.

Here’s what she said:

“Huwag susuko, dapat kailangan laban lang para maabot natin ang mga pangarap natin.”

About the author 

Yesh Quijano

Yesh Quijano is an entrepreneur and digital marketer who's been in the game for over 11 years. He started several businesses and helped countless others reach new heights. His goal is to make digital marketing for SMEs simple, accessible, and effective. When he's not working, you can find him cuddling with his two cats.

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Use These Siomai Recipes + Costing For Your Food Business

• BY: Yummy.ph team
• September 17, 2021

Siomai   is either part of your merienda meal or your lunch. It’s a flavorful meaty bite packed in a bite-sized morsel. Whether you love  siomai or not, there is no doubt that the Chinese-inspired dumplings are delicious paired with rice or on its own. 

Why not make the humble siomai  be the start of your own food business? It’s a negosyo that will easily be a delicious hit! 

The biggest investment you’ll need is a steamer to cook the siomai plus ingredients. The ingredients list of a siomai recipe may be long but it only ensures that each piece is worth every peso your customers will spend. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for each kind of siomai you can make: 

Pork Siomai Recipe (P526 for 70 pieces) 

• 1 kilo ground pork, lean
• 1/3 cup singkamas (jicama), minced
• 1/3 cup carrots, minced
• 1 large onion, minced
• spring onions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 5 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 egg, beaten
• small wonton or  siomai  wrappers

Chicken Siomai Recipe (P527.26 for 30 pieces)

• 400 grams ground chicken
• 100 grams pork back fat, chopped finely
• 1/2 cup shrimp meat, chopped
• 1/4 cup canned water chestnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons carrot, chopped
• 2 tablespoons spring onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 teaspoons white pepper
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 36 pieces siomai wrapper, (3 inches in diameter)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

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• busy home cook , chicken siomai , chicken siomai recipe , dumpling , food business , negosyo recipes , pork siomai , pork siomai recipe , provider , shumai , siomai , siomai recipe , tribute cook , Video

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Table of Contents

Free Samples and Examples of Essays, Homeworks and any Papers

• Absolutely free
• Perfect homeworks
• Fast relevant search
• No registration and Anonymous

Siomai Business Proposal

Filed Under: Essays Tagged With: Business

Siomai is one of the bestseller in food business industry nowadays and many people find it a good business venture. It is a very versatile dish. It can be eaten solo as a snack, or served with rice to make a full meal, so you can sell it anytime of the day. Ingredients for making siomai are readily available in supermarkets and public markets; some you’ll even find in your own kitchen right now. Plan Location of the Business The business is planning to locate in place near at school and in the neighborhood because of mass number of people on those places.

Siomai making and selling is a very good business to look forward for. It can be sold anytime and almost anywhere. Having this kind of business requires time and effort as well as right marketing strategies. This business is in terms of food in which we have to make sure that the business observes cleanliness and right sanitation should be observed. The objective of Siomai business is to bring affordable food without losing its delicious taste. This business doesn’t require a big profit; in addition, it aims to help those people who are staying at home to earn profit and to make them more productive.

Since we are planning a location near at school, and on neighborhood, our target market are mostly students and people who passes as well as people who stays on their houses and craving for some food/s to eat. Competitors Small businesses have many competitors all around them. Like in school, there are lots of food carts as well as canteens who sells different foods that sometimes Siomai is also one of their offered food. Likewise, selling on the neighborhood can also have lots of competitors, like carinderias and some food carts that are roaming around. How does your product differ from others?

The Essay on What Factors Determine/influence The Food Choice People Make?

Food, which is the only energy source for human, is essential in peoples’ life. It has many different kinds which gives people different kinds of nutrition. Go through the thousands of years of evolution, diet have become not only an important part of peoples’ life but also a culture. People who are living all over the world have different food choices. The three important factors that influence ...

We will make sure that our product (Siomai) would be different from other siomai businesses as well as our other competitors in terms of taste and service that we will offer. (yung mga prices na tska yung kikitain) How will you meet the demand, beat competitors and operate profits? Pork Siomai Ingredients: 1 kg ground pork (suggested proportion of fat to lean meat is 1:3) 1/3 cup chopped water chestnuts or turnips (singkamas) 3/4 cup chopped carrots 2 tbsp or 4 cloves minced garlic 2 medium or 1 large minced onion(s) bunch of spring onions or leeks 1 egg 5 tablespoons sesame oil 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 teaspoon salt 5 g seasonings 50 pcs. large or 100 pcs. small wanton or siomai wrapper Soy sauce, calamansi (lemon or kumquats), sesame oil and chilli paste (for the sauce) Siomai Cooking Instructions: Mix all the ingredients for the filling in a bowl. Arrange 10 wrappers in a tray, and weigh 100 g of siomai mixture. Place 2 tsp of meat in each wrapper until nothing is left unfilled. Each wrapper will have 10 grams of siomai. To enclose, gather up the edges of the wrapper and gently fold it so that it forms a basket shape, with the top of the filling exposed. Press lightly as you pleat each side.

Or, if you don’t want to expose the filling, use a bigger wrapper. Do the same to the remaining meat mixture. Meanwhile, boil water and brush steamer with oil. When the water gets to a rolling boil, arrange the siomai in the steamer and let stand for 15-20 minutes, longer for larger pieces. Serve with soy sauce, calamansi and sesame oil. Chilli paste is optional. Chili Sauce for Siomai: 1/8 kilo Chillies (Siling Labuyo) 3 tablespoons cooking oil 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced dried shrimp or meat finely chopped or grind (Adds more flavor but optional) Siomai Chilli Sauce Cooking Instruction:

Combine chopped chillies, dried shrimp or meat and minced garlic then simmer for around 20 minutes or till most of the water has evaporated. Add oil, simmer and stir well. Put your cooked Siomai in a nice packaging when planning to sell it. Siomai can be marketed in schools, offices, or to your neighbors. How to Start a Siomai Business 1. Name your business In choosing a name for your business, it has to be something related to your product, unique and easy to remember. 2. Register your business To make your business legal and functional there are several government agencies you have to register with.

Business Plan: Teng Long Barbecue Restaurant

Slogan: BBQ in Happy Life Mission: Let the people enjoy the BBQ and have a break in the shopping hour. Vision: This shop in the Wanda Plaza is the first shop in my company, and in the future I will put my idea to more shopping center or plaza, etc. Barbecue Market: Business industry and outlook: Our company's barbecue and those in the high streets and back lanes is different. Existing market: In ...

Learn how to make siomai Do you know how to make your own specialty siomai that’s so awesome you know everyone will want it. If you do then great. If not, then you’d better learn. 4. Make your own food cart You don’t need anything huge right away. Getting a very basic cart is all you need to get started. Food carts are easy to set up, requires low capital and is cheaper than putting up a restaurant. 5. Find a good location Look for a place that is in a commercial area where there is heavy foot traffic like in malls, train stations, terminals, schools and office areas.

Having positioned your business in a good place means lots of income. 6. Market your product Don’t be so confident that’s because your business is located in a heavy foot traffic area people will notice it. Sorry, but no. You have to make a noise so that people will know that you are selling something for them. Make something that people will always comeback for your product. Don’t settle for less. 7. Save your profit Save all the money you can. Once you’re business grows you can expand to other locations and add more products being offered.

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• Tue. Sep 17th, 2024

Business Diary Philippines

Small business startup ideas and money making guide

How to Start Your Own Siomai Business

Let’s learn how to start a siomai business.

Starting a siomai business is easy. It only requires low capital. The hard part is keeping the siomai business running. But with good marketing strategy, good location and good know how of the product, your siomai business can be profitable and successful.

Here are the tips on how to start your own siomai business.

1. Name your business – In choosing a name for your business, it has to be something related to your product, unique and easy to remember.

2. Register your business – To make your business legal and functional there are several government agencies you have to register with. Click here on How to Get Business Permits and Licenses for your business .

3. Learn how to make siomai – Do you know how to make your own specialty siomai that’s so awesome you know everyone will want it. If you do then great. If not, then you’d better learn. Click here to learn how to make siomai and special siomai sauce .

4. Make your own food cart – You don’t need anything huge right away. Getting a very basic cart is all you need to get started. Food carts are easy to set up, requires low capital and is cheaper than putting up a restaurant. Learn here how to start your own food cart business .

5. Find a good location – Look for a place that is in a commercial area where there is heavy foot traffic like in malls, train stations, terminals, schools and office areas. Having positioned your business in a good place means lots of income.

6. Market your product – Don’t be so confident that’s because your business is located in a heavy foot traffic area people will notice it. Sorry, but no. You have to make a noise so that people will know that you are selling something for them. Make something that people will always comeback for your product. Don’t settle for less.

7. Save your profit – Save all the money you can. Once you’re business grows you can expand to other locations and add more products being offered.

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And with our team which is Team SUN or Sakura Ultimate Negosyo, we offer business enhancement modules, motivational modules, 50% discount on our optical partner and also FREE E-PINOYLOAD business, and for our Franchisees' Entrepreneurial Training from Coca-Cola

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I would recommend starting your online business at home, even while you have your employment. There are tons of ideas out there, which one can capitalize. Everything is actually going online. I am expecting that Philippines will also follow the trend of 1st world countries, wherein most shopping is now done via online. I do have an online e-commerce website myself and leverages through online free classified ads such as www.mybenta.com, OLX and AYOS.

very informative post thank you for sharing

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Financial Adviser: 5 Business Lessons Everyone Can Learn from Jonathan So and Carl Macadangdang, Founders of Siomai King and JC Premiere

Jonathan So and Carlito Macadangdang are two dynamic entrepreneurs whose journey to success is marked by resilience, innovation, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Their story exemplifies their ability to adapt and innovate, propelling them to the forefront of the business world.

During the Asian financial crisis, So's family faced significant financial difficulties. His parents had to close their garments business, which put a strain on their finances. To continue his studies in college, So turned to his uncle for support. The financial hardship he experienced early on pushed him to find ways to earn his own allowance. He began selling prepaid cards to his classmates, which allowed him to sustain himself during his college years.

After graduating from university, he realized that working a regular job would not provide the financial stability he sought, which prompted him to venture into business to increase his earnings.

So invited his childhood best friend, Macadangdang, to start a business together. Inspired by successful brands like Siomai House and Henlin, they created a collapsible siomai food cart and set it up on Quezon Avenue, naming it Siomai King.

The business quickly gained traction, and within three months, customers began inquiring about franchising opportunities. This interest led the partners to start selling franchises, with 10 sold in the first month alone. The franchise sales grew consistently every month, validating their business model and strategy.

Today, Siomai King stands as one of the largest players in the market, selling one million siomai pieces daily across 1,200 outlets. Over the years, So and Macadangdang have created several franchise brands such as Noodle House, Burger Factory, and Potato King.

The duo also entered the health and beauty wellness industry by launching JC Barley from New Zealand. Using a network marketing system, they amassed 15,000 members in the first year, making JC Premiere one of the country's fastest-growing network marketing groups, with hundreds of thousands of members in just 10 years.

In the past decade, JC Premiere also expanded globally with thousands of wholesalers. They established offices in Dubai, Singapore, Milan, Qatar, Taiwan, Malaysia, Switzerland and Canada.

How did So and Macadangdang adapt and innovate their products to overcome challenges and achieve success? What lessons can aspiring young entrepreneurs learn from their journey?

Here are the five business lessons everyone can learn from the founders of Siomai King and JC Premiere, Jonathan So and Carlito Macadangdang:

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1| Know how to turn financial challenges into opportunities

Developing resilience and adaptability is essential in the face of financial difficulties. Entrepreneurs who learn to navigate financial hardships become more capable of handling future challenges. This ability to adapt and bounce back from setbacks is a valuable skill in both personal and professional life.

Financial constraints often drive innovation and creativity. When resources are limited, individuals and businesses are forced to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. This can lead to the development of new products, services, or processes that may not have been considered otherwise.

So demonstrated resourcefulness early in his entrepreneurial journey. Faced with the financial collapse of his family's business during the Asian financial crisis, he needed to find a way to support himself. His resourcefulness allowed him to identify and capitalize on various small business opportunities, even under challenging circumstances.

His uncle, involved in the distributorship of prepaid cards, provided him with an opportunity. So began selling these prepaid cards, as well as internet cards, on his campus. He didn't stop there; he also supplied meat cuts to his uncle's entertainment business, showcasing his ability to diversify his income streams. So’s ability to adapt and find creative solutions was important in his early entrepreneurial endeavors.

Macadangdang, on the other hand, displayed a strong entrepreneurial mindset focused on family responsibility and adaptability. Instead of pursuing high-paying jobs abroad, he decided to work for his father's business, which demonstrated his sense of responsibility and willingness to make personal sacrifices for the sake of family.

Macadangdang also quickly adapted to the needs of his family business, taking on various roles such as checking and counting motorcycle parts in the warehouse, which showed his willingness to learn and adapt to different aspects of the business and his commitment.

“I was 19 years old back,” So says. “I was selling prepaid cards sa Benilde, yung Globe, Smart scratch cards plus yung mga internet cards. Remember in the old days yung ISP na Blast? It happened na my uncle, yung brother ng dad ko, eh nasa distributorship of Globe and Smart prepaid cards, plus the internet cards.

“I told my uncle na I have to produce my own baon because from financial crisis, yung family ko meron kaming tindahan sa Tutuban nung araw dyan, nung financial crisis ng ‘97-‘98, bumagsak yun, so yung family business na-down, then yung uncle ko na yun ang nagpa-aral sa ‘kin.

“Kaya I was selling prepaid cards sa campus. Yun ang ginagawa ko noon during breaks sa Benilde, and then nagkaron ng business ng entertainment yung uncle ko tapos marami syang tao na pinapakain, kumuha rin ako ng supply na meat na galing sa uncle ko, nag-supply ako ng choice cuts sa canteen ng Benilde.

“Bale dun sa school may backpack ako, tapos puno ng prepaid and internet cards. So yung mga classmates ko they come to me up to the point na pati yung cellphone binibili ko. Di ba uso yung palit ng phone? Kasi laging naglalabas si Nokia ng bago. So ginagawa ko binibili ko sa kanila lahat ng phones na gusto nilang ibenta dinadala ko sa Greenhills.

“Yung college pa lang very entrepreneurial na talaga ako kasi I was forced to go to earn a living. Then nag-expand ako din ako, nagco-consignment ako ng mga prepaid cards sa University Belt. Doon eventually yung baon ko, hindi na sya baon, medyo naging significant na sya kasi I was able to buy my own car at that time during college.

“Magkakilala na kami ni Carl, Kinder 2 pa lang, we were best friends. We were classmates all the way hanggang high school. Nung college, La Salle sya, Benilde ako. Hindi naman kami laging magkasama pero nagkikita kami every Saturday dahil sa ROTC. Sumasabay ako sa kanya lagi, sinusundo nya ko kasi may car siya dati. Nakakatipid ako pag pumapasok.

“Nung nag-graduate nako, nagtrabaho ako sa American Express for six months para ma-try ko lang. Sahod ko was P8,000 plus, tapos si Carl naman nasa business nila. Nung time na yun, parang subok lang sa corporate pero mga less than six months pa lang yata nun, nag-start na kami ni Carl mag-plano ng business.

“At first gusto ko mag-aral and makatapos tapos mag-work ako na may malaking salary and then na-realize ko, nagbibilang ako nung college, gusto ko bumili ng sasakyan, sasahod akong P100,000 pero malabo naman na unang sahod ko pag graduate P100,000 diba? Sabi ko kalokohan to, dun ko na-realize na gusto ko na mag-business.”

 “Parehas kami ni Jonathan,” Macadangdang adds. “Ang pinaka-goal ko lang nung college ako makatapos ako tapos makakuha ako ng trabaho. Pagkatapos kong mag-college, before I receive my diploma, meron na kong mga offers sa mga companies like HP, Intel, Procter and Gamble ganon. Tapos bibigyan ka nila ng set na package di ba?

“Like you to go to Boston, you go to this place so syempre when you were young, you wanted to take those opportunity kasi you haven't explored whatever it is outside. Pero meron tayong Chinese culture and Filipino values na at the end of the day, we sacrifice our own interest for the sake of family.

“So after mag-graduate ng college diretso ako sa Dad ko. Wala na kasing magtutuloy sa negosyo, ako yung panganay. Yung business ng Dad ko yung nagsu-supply kasi sya ng mga motorcycle parts, may mga customer sya tapos may bodega lang sya and ginagawa ko taga-bilang ng mga ini-empake na motorcycle parts. Bibilangin ko parang checker.”

2| Know how to create a cost-effective and scalable business model

A scalable business model enables a company to enter new markets with minimal additional costs. By replicating successful business processes and strategies in new locations or segments, companies can grow their market share and diversify their revenue streams.

Managing costs effectively and having a scalable model also helps in better risk management. By keeping operational costs low and being able to adjust the scale of operations, businesses can better withstand economic downturns, market volatility, and unexpected disruptions.

So and Macadangdang adopted a lean startup approach by investing minimal capital to enter the market without significant financial risk. They hired a chef from Binondo to develop a unique siomai recipe and persisted in having it reformulated to ensure affordability without compromising quality.

Recognizing the potential of franchising, they designed a cost-effective franchise package priced at P38,888, including a collapsible cart, equipment, and initial inventory. The low entry cost made franchising accessible to many aspiring entrepreneurs, fueling rapid expansion.

The partners implemented a referral system for franchisees and participated in expos to promote their brand. This grassroots marketing approach helped build a strong network of franchisees and increased brand visibility.

“Way back then napapag-usapan na namin kasi franchise,” So says. “Gusto namin mag-franchise ng waffle na food cart, kasi click sya nun eh. Sakto P10 meron ka nang hotdog sa loob. May cheese, masarap pa, kaso, P500,000 yung franchise fee, so naisip namin ‘Pare, why not magsubok tayo gumawa ng waffle?

“Sinubukan namin, pero nakita namin kasi parang fad lang. Hindi ka araw-araw mag wa-waffle diba? Pero yung siomai araw-araw pwede kang siomai with rice sa campus nakakabusog.”

“There was a time na maganda yung kita ng waffle and then after some time, parang it was slowly declining,” Macadangdang adds. “So that's what made us think na parang fad, parang ganon, tapos chances are mga bata lang makakakain  ng waffle so sabi namin the concept of franchising is good. We might have a wrong product lang.

“Eh lagi naman kaming nasa mall eh. Nakikita namin lagi ung Henlin saka si Siomai House sa mga LRT, sa baba, so na-inspire din kami sa kanila.

“Yung time na yun, parang puro ‘King’ yung name, kaya we just called it Siomai King. Ginawa namin, nagbayad kami ng chef sa Binondo para gumawa ng formula, only to find out na hindi pala namin pwedeng ibenta kasi ang mahal sobra, kasi may hipon diba? So nagpa-reformulate ulit kami sa R&D, bayad na naman kami kada gawa. Yung nag-start kami, tig P20,000 lang yung puhunan namin.

“Kumuha kami ng four square meter na puwesto tapos mura lang yung cart namin, kasi maliit lang, hindi yung malaki na cart na hindi pwedeng ilagay sa sasakyan. Mga P15,000 yung puhunan namin sa cart, tapos P900 pesos lang yung steamer nun, yung stainless na warmer, yung bilog? Tapos wala kaming freezer.

“Meron kaming maliit na bahay na nire-rent namin noon. Doon lang kami nag-start gumawa ng siomai, tapos kami din nag ku-crew dun. Nandun kami everyday hanggang nagkaron kami ng isang crew, tapos naging dalawang tindera. Benta namin nun mga P5,000 isang araw. Dati malaki na yun kasi halos wala na kaming rent nun.

“A few months after kasi may nag inquire kung pinapafranchise ba namin yung Siomai King. Biglang dun na kami nagka-idea. Kaya nun nagbenta kami ng franchise na P38,888 sa simula, may collapsible cart yun and meron nang equipment at inventory na P1000 pesos parang ganon, tapos we will supply them the siomai. So doon sya biglang umakyat. Merong time na umabot kami ng 69 na nabentang franchise sa isang buwan lang. 

“Naku-crew kami nun, tapos kami rin yung nagpapaliwanag tungkol sa franchise kasi it's just very easy eh, parang collapsible cart na may equipment, may marketing collaterals and a tarp. Isasakay mo na lang sa kotse mo eh.

“I think hindi bumababa ng 10 franchises na nabebenta namin per month yung nag-start kami and sobrang mura yung price namin, P38,888 lang, pero ako naman taga-supply ng siomai, tapos pataas na nag pataas.

“Nung nagbebenta kami ng franchise, meron kaming referral system. So yung nagfranchise nagrerefer din sila, tapos we give them a certain commission, tapos sumali na kami sa Expo. Sumasali kami dun sa emerging concepts, may maliit na carts kami sa booth.

“Lahat ito nangyari within the year and so sobrang bilis, hindi na kami natutulog eh.”

3| Know how to reinvest profits for growth and focus on core competence

Reinvesting profits helps build a strong financial base, reducing reliance on external funding sources such as loans or equity investments. A strong financial foundation can provide the business with the resilience to withstand economic downturns and capitalize on growth opportunities.

Continuous reinvestment helps maintain a competitive edge and adapt to changing market conditions. This can lead to new products, improved services, and the ability to enter new markets.

Focusing on core competencies allows a business to leverage its unique strengths and capabilities. By honing in on what the company does best, it can deliver superior value to customers, differentiate itself from competitors, and establish a strong market position.

From the beginning, So and Macadangdang practiced delayed gratification. Instead of spending their earnings on personal luxuries, they reinvested all profits back into the business.

As profits grew, they invested in machinery to automate processes, increasing production efficiency and consistency. This reinvestment strategy allowed them to scale their operations effectively.

Their growth strategy was based on simple, practical financial management. Profits were used to buy trucks, storage facilities, and eventually their own commissary, reducing reliance on rented spaces and third-party storage. This backward integration helped them save costs and improve efficiency.

By continuously saving and reinvesting, they were able to accumulate the capital needed for significant investments. This approach provided them with a solid financial base to support further expansion and innovation.

Recognizing the success of their Siomai King model, the partners replicated this approach with other brands like Noodle House, Burger Factory, and Potato King. Franchising allowed them to scale rapidly while maintaining control over product quality and brand consistency.

“Nung una lahat manual, puro labor intensive, basta ang goal namin nun delayed gratification,” So says. “Pag kumikita kami, ini-invest namin lahat sa business. Bibili kami ng machine, bili kami ng L300, bili kami lahat kung anong kailangan ng company.

“There was a time marunong na kaming mag-siomai eh. Pag kulang sa production andun kami. Marunong kaming gumawa ng siomai at yung magsara ng siopao at saka magmasa ng roller. Kaunti lang kami nung simula. Tatlo muna tapos biglang dumami yung nag-franchise.

“Kaya from a small house lumipat na kami sa likod ng Cash and Carry na parang meron kaming ni-rent na commissary sa Makati which eventually na nabili rin namin. Ganon yung ginawa namin,  accumulation of savings, hindi kami bumibili ng sasakyan, lahat punta sa investment.

“Wala kami planning kasi simple math lang eh. Basta kumita yan ang goal namin palagi. Pag kumita bilhin natin ito, hanggang nabili namin mga truck, nakabili na rin kami ng sarili naming storage. Dati nagre-rent lang kami. So, simple lang naman yung fomula eh. Ito yung kinita, lalabas lang namin personal expense namin. Siguro pag kumikita yung business, mabilis gumana yung common sense.

“Pag dating sa investment, risk-taker kami. Ganon talaga kami. Fighter kami. Iniisip rin namin nun, hindi naman sasali yung mga ibang franchisors sa Expo kung hindi sila kumikita diba?”

“Yung lagi namin pinag-uusapan saka kapag nandun kana nag-uumpisa ka, totoo lang, nasa isip namin dati, wala rin naman kami,” Macadangdang says. “Nagsimula kami sa wala. There's nothing to lose eh. Might as well take yung ano yung chances mo, eh ok naman nangyari eh.”

“So lagi naming iniisip lalo kaming lalakas, yung foundation namin, pag ka nai-integrate namin lahat yung mga middle-man at natatanggal namin lahat nung mga tulad ng storage, backward integration,” So adds. “Common sense ito eh. Pag binilang mo, pag bibili kang machine mag pe-present yung machine, mas makakatipid ka ng ganito, mas magiging efficient ka eto mase-save mo.”

“Yung pinaka unang years talaga namin, to be honest, wala kaming plano ahead, we are just busy on,” Macadangdang says. “The things na meron at hand at ano pa yung pwede nating iimprove. Hindi pa kami nag-iisip ng mga concept nun, pero nung medyo okay na sya, pumupunta na kami sa mga trade show and we were looking for new concepts, nakapunta na rin kami ng ibang bansa so dun na kami nakapagdagdag.”

“Mga after three years, dun na kami nag expand,” So adds. “Nakakita kami ng opportunity na ire-replicate lang namin yung concept and approach na ginawa namin sa Siomai King, so sabi namin, ‘Why not do another brand?’ Pero nag-focus kami sa commissary. Gumawa kami ng mga company-owned outlets tapos binenta rin namin afterwards. Nag-focus kami kung saan kami magaling. Kasi masakit sa ulo kung hindi namin core competence. Yung core competence namin is mag-produce ng product saka mag distribute, hindi mag operation.”

4| Know how to leverage network marketing strategies for strategic business growth

Network marketing is a cost-effective strategy that minimizes traditional advertising and marketing expenses. By leveraging a network of independent distributors or salespeople, companies can expand their reach without significant upfront costs. These distributors are often compensated based on performance, reducing the risk of high fixed marketing costs.

One of the most powerful aspects of network marketing is its reliance on word-of-mouth promotion. Distributors share their positive experiences with products or services within their networks, which can be more persuasive than traditional advertising.

The network marketing model is flexible and adaptable, enabling businesses to respond quickly to market changes and consumer demands. Distributors often provide real-time feedback, allowing companies to adjust their strategies, improve products, and introduce new offerings promptly.

So and Macadangdang recognized the potential in the health and wellness sector. They started by sourcing a high-quality product from New Zealand and founded JC Premiere in 2013. Having some experience with multi-level marketing (MLM) during their college days, they understood its power when paired with quality products and used it as their primary marketing tool.

When the pandemic forced the closure of their physical Siomai King carts, they adapted by creating affordable “sulit packs” of frozen siomai that could be sold from home. They leveraged their existing JC Premiere network, allowing these members to also sell siomai. This adaptation not only sustained their business but also provided additional income opportunities for their network.

They also learned that achieving certain volumes was important for cost efficiency. By focusing on network marketing for expansion, they ensured that they could offer competitive prices without compromising on quality.

“Yung 2013, nag-prepare kami mag-open ng health and wellness business,” Macadangdang says. “Kasi parang we think na may malaking opportunity dun sa health and wellness. Nung college days namin, we were involved in some multi-level marketing companies for a short time lang, so nakita namin yung beauty ng multi-level marketing basta may good product.  

“Kaya nagsimula yung JC premiere. It's a different company. May idea na kami nung start. Programmer kami parehas. Si Carl kaya nya i-program yung system tapos we just look for a good product, ito yung JC Barley. Kinuha namin yung product sa New Zealand. Ni-research namin and naghahanap din sila ng counterpart sa Asia, tapos pumunta kami dun, nag-shoot kami and mineet namin sila. Nakita namin yung factory. Dinocument namin yun, may video pa, ginamit namin yun sa marketing.”

“Yung inumpisahan namin ito, kami ulit nagsasalita. Kami uli yung nag-aalok,” So says. “Actually masaya na nakakapagod. Masaya kasi mas malaki yung nagiging impact mo sa tao eh. Kung baga mas marami kaming tao nata-touch, aside from teaching them to earn money.

“Natuturuan mo sila na magkaron ng confidence sa sarili nila, like papano sila magsalita tapos naaayos mo yung mindset nila to be entrepreneurial, like yung sa financial management, pag kumita ka ibawas mo yung sa needs, tapos sunod lagay mo sa business mo, sunod save, tapos saka lang yung wants mo sa dulo.

“Mas malaki yung nagiging impact mo sa tao, saka mas masaya kasi natuturuan pa namin sila sa tamang healthy lifestyle. Saka eto yung mga tipong wala nang pambayad ng kuryente pero dahil sa JC, biglang nakakaron ng mga rags-to-riches story.”

“Nag-start kami isa member. Literal na isa lang but in one month, umabot kami ng mga 1,000 members. We call them wholesalers. Ang goal kasi nila is magbenta ng wholesale na products, hindi mag-recruit. Yun ang goal.

“Araw-araw kaming nagtratrabaho,” Macadangdang says. “Everyday kami nagpre-present. Everyday, every night, Monday to Sunday yun, and hindi lang sa Manila, we also go to provinces, naghihiwalay kami.

“During pandemic, nag-evolve yung Siomai King kasi nagsara yung mga carts, so nag-create kami ng sulit pack na mura na pangmasa na two pesos lang isang Siomai na frozen, pwede kang magbenta sa bahay may freezer ka lang.

“We called them community franchisees or wholesalers ng Siomai King, so ang nangyari lahat ng JC premiere na mga wholesaler, pwede na silang mag-wholesale ng siomai na dati wala namang ganon. Lalong dumami nagbebenta nung siomai, mas lalong nagkaron ng livelihood. Kung dati pupunta ka sa kaibigan mo nagbebenta ka lang ng Barley ngayon bibigyan mo sila ng siomai rin.”

“Nag-work yun,” So says. “It turned out na marami palang gustong mag-reseller or mag wholesaler ng food, dun namin na realized na marami pa puede ibenta.

“Yung siomai namin, yung pinaka-ginagamit namin pure meat lang.” Macadangdang says. “Pure meat, wala kaming mga extender, kaya pag kinain mo sya mas malasa sya. It’s hard to believe, but it’s true. At saka five pieces siya. Yung panlima yung nakakabusog eh. Yung sa market mga four pieces lang. We don't use TVP or yung mga soy protein and magagawa mo lang yan pagka may scale ka at automated ka. It’s about 30 percent fat and 70 percent meat.”

“Dun namin pinagaralan na we need to reach a certain volume para makuha naming etong panglimang piraso kaya focus kami sa commissary supply,” So adds. “Mas maraming meat, mas mura meat.”

5| Know how to cultivate hard work, gratitude and humility in business

In a competitive market, businesses that emphasize hard work are more likely to innovate and stay ahead of their competitors. When leaders demonstrate a strong work ethic, it inspires employees to follow suit, creating a culture of dedication and high performance.

Expressing gratitude towards employees promotes a positive work environment, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates. Grateful businesses that appreciate their customers tend to build stronger relationships, leading to repeat business and customer loyalty.

Humble leaders are more approachable and open to feedback, which can lead to better decision-making and a more cohesive team. Humility in business practices builds trust and respect among employees, customers, and partners, which is essential for long-term success.

So and Macadangdang expressed gratitude towards their families for their support and guidance. Their parents played a significant role in their upbringing, instilling the value of hard work and responsibility. This support system helped them remain grounded and motivated.

Despite the challenges they faced, both partners remained grateful for the success they achieved. So emphasized the importance of being grateful for their achievements and comfortable life, recognizing that it was a collective effort that brought them to where they are.

So and Macadangdang's approach to handling disagreements showed humility. They often met in the middle on differing ideas, allowing room for trial and error. This attitude promoted a collaborative environment where both were willing to take risks and learn from the outcomes.

So highlighted the importance of respecting and valuing the people they work with. He believed in treating their team and partners with love and respect, which helped build a loyal and motivated workforce.

“Over the years, to be honest, if meron kaming disagreements sobrang konti lang,” Macadangdang says. “Maybe compared to the stories na naririnig namin sa mga ibang magka-partner, kadalasan yung disagreements namin nare-resolve naman namin sya palagi or, ganito subukan natin yung ganito and take another way afterwards. Pero over the course of 18 years, in terms of business, wala yata kaming pinagtalunan na malalim. Wala talaga.”

“Saka pag may idea halimbawa andun na, tingin ko ito kikita, tingin nya hindi ito kikita, magkita na lang sa gitna,” So says. “Minsan kaming dalawa ‘mauna ka na sige.’ Pag talo kantyawan, ‘Ang kulit mo eh.’ Sanay na kami. Saka pag pumapasok kami, ibig sabihin willing kami to lose that money or win big. Basta tinaya na namin, alam na namin na kaya namin ipatalo yun. Saka pag tumaya kami, 50/50 palagi.

“When we were starting our business, sakin supportive naman palagi yung parents ko. Sinasabi nila sakin palagi ‘Magsipag ka, pagbutihan mo’. Yung lang naman simple lang. Yung dad ko, alam mo naman Chinese, sinasabi niya sakin lagi, ‘Galingan mo lang.’

“Eh as long as nakikita naman nya lately, I think, without even saying, hindi naman masyado expressive yung yung mga tatay na Chinese, diba? Pero itong lately syempre alam mo sa sarili mo na, one way or the another, happy din sya. Parehas kami ng pangalan eh, junior ako eh. So every time nakikita nya yan parang in one way or another, proud sya. Kasi apelyido nya yan eh.

“Kasi lumaki naman kami, yung dad namin hindi very affectionate. Very logical yung tatay ko eh. If you want something, you have to do something for it. When you were studying, you want something, kailangan magaling ka sa school, kailangan ganito, then you will get your reward.”

“My parents would give me, syempre typical advice na mag-ipon ka, itabi mo yang pera mo,” Macadangdang says. “Cash is king, para pag dumating na medyo mahirapan, meron kang bubunutin. Over 18 years, I think one thing I can say marunong kaming mag-save. Marunong din kaming mag-treat ng sarili namin. I think we can balance it out kasi sabi nga ni Jonathan, 18 years na kaming nagne-negosyo, five years ago lang kami gumagastos. So for 13 years, kuripot talaga kami, sobrang kuripot kung alam mo lang.”

“Ako naman, my parents would tell me numberr 1, kailangan masipag,” So says. “Walang tatalo dun eh. Number 2, wag mong sirain at ingatan mo ang pagalan mo. Huwag mo sisirain pangalan mo kasi even sa business, sa suppliers alone. Third, mahalin mo yung mga taong kasama mo. Kailangan mo silang mahalin and eto nadagdag na lang, nung na blessed na kami, kailangan grateful ka kasi pag hindi ka grateful sa kung ano mang meron ka ngayon, sooner or later maghihiwalay kaming dalawa.

“Kasi pag hindi na ‘ko grateful sa narating namin and magiging mayabang na ko, sigurado maghihiwalay kami, and pag hindi na ko grateful, pati mga tao ko mawawala yan. Yun ang pinaka-tingin ko nadagdag sakin overtime, na parang kaya siguro minsan kapag may mga hurdles, ang pumapasok lang lagi sa isip ko, kumbaga, we have to be grateful.

“Hindi pwedeng palagi kaming jackpot, parang may mga dadaanan man kami, pero grateful na kami kasi kumbaga, comfortable life na yung binigay sa ‘min. Pero syempre nung bata ka, di mo iisipin maging grateful eh. Hirap na hirap nga kami di ba? Pero ngayon yun na yung parang sandalan ko na sa principle ko.”

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Homemade Siomai Business That Started With P600 Capital, Now Earning Over P20K A Day

While siomai has its roots in Chinese cuisine, it has long reached the heart of every Pinoy. Siomai stalls can practically be seen anywhere, from streets to malls. This street food has so many variations that might make you wonder if there’s still a way for it to become a hit business idea.

For the family of Barrientos, their siomai business has been thriving for 17 years. But, they hit the jackpot when they started to finds ways to make sure it’s top-notch quality. Teresita Barrientos’s homemade Ayo’s Siomai is a favorite snack among their neighbors. Every day, their siomai was always sold out. The secret is they use pure ground pork with no additives.

Looking back, Teresita losing her job amid the pandemic paved the way for her to focus on their siomai business.

“Laging ubos. Pinapadala an rin sa amin kasi nagdadala na rin kami sa trabaho. Pero nagsara young kompanyang tinatrabuhan ko kaya sabi ng tatay ko, magtinda na lang kami nito. ” Teresita shared on GMA’s Pera Paraan .

Their capital was only P500 and she and her husband decided to work on two separate stalls in different locations to maximize their market. Back then, Teresita said it was difficult to manage a street stall business because they would be apprehended by the authorities. Their first stall was also not doing well.

But, instead of giving up, Teresita turned to social media to promote their business. She was surprised that siomai became a “blockbuster” hit. “Naku, eto na. Sabi ko salamat Lord,” she recalled.

Before they could barely earn enough to cover their overhead in a day, now they earn 5-digits every day. Teresita said they could even reach P50,000 a day in selling their business. She also offered jobs to their neighbors who wanted to look for a way to earn.

Teresita’s word of advice

Perseverance and hard work are the keys to entrepreneurial success, according to Teresita. “Huwag susuko, dapat kailangan laban lang para maabot natin ang mga pangarap natin,” she said. Teresita’s story is another reminder to believe in your products and work hard to achieve your goal.

How to make homemade siomai

For the ingredients, prepare salt, pepper, crushed onions, egg, ground pork. Mix everything together. In one kilo of ground pork costing P600, they can make 90 pieces of siomai. Fold and prepare the ground pork in a dumpling wrapper. Steam it for 10 minutes. Don’t overcrowd your steamer.

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