In the bustling world of quick-service dining, where every bite tells a story, Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks emerges as a beacon of authenticity and innovation. With a rich tapestry of flavors drawn from the vibrant streets of Taiwan, Shihlin invites patrons on a culinary odyssey steeped in tradition and flavor. In an exclusive interview with The Franchise Talk, we delve deep into the essence of Shihlin, uncovering the secrets behind its success, the inspiration behind its brand, and its vision for the future. From humble beginnings to global acclaim, join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks—one bite at a time.
How did you enter into the franchise business?
Our journey into the franchise business began with a clear vision for expansion both locally and globally right from the initial stages of ideation. Twenty years ago, when our brand was introduced as a fresh concept in Singapore and South-East Asia, there was an immediate surge of interest among entrepreneurs and business owners eager to bring our unique brand and products to their respective territories within the region. The innovative nature of our concept and the growing demand for authentic Taiwanese street food experiences paved the way for our successful entry into the franchise market.
Where and how did the idea of your concept come from?
Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks was founded in 2003 with the vision to bring authentic Taiwanese street food worldwide. Today, Shihlin has dominated the Taiwanese street food market in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia with over 20 years of unmatched expertise. Shihlin has proudly served over 95 million Taiwan XXL Crispy Chicken to date, earning recognition as the #1 Taiwan XXL Crispy Chicken globally. With over 240 outlets spanning across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Egypt, and the United States, Shihlin, recognized by Forbes Asia’s Best, continues to thrive as the leader in the dynamic quick-service segment.
Where and how did the idea of your concept come from?
Shi Lin Night Market in Taipei is a must-visit for tourists, as it is the largest and most famous night market in Taiwan, featuring hundreds of stalls selling Taiwanese street food. Locals also flock to the night market, creating a vibrant and culturally rich food scene for everyone to immerse themselves in.
Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks hopes to emulate this experience for people worldwide, allowing them to enjoy authentic Taiwanese street food and capturing the essence of the vibrant food culture found at Shi Lin Night Market.
What is the story behind the brand’s logo?
The story behind our brand’s logo is deeply rooted in our Taiwanese heritage and the vibrant atmosphere of the night markets. The Chinese characters prominently featured in our logo symbolize our connection to Taiwanese culture and traditions. Meanwhile, the cart depicted in the background serves as a nostalgic nod to the bustling stalls found in Taiwan’s iconic night markets. It encapsulates the essence of our brand, evoking memories of savouring authentic street food delights amidst the lively energy of these bustling culinary hubs.
What makes your brand different from your competitors?
Our unwavering dedication to providing the most authentic Taiwanese street food experience imaginable. From meticulously sourcing the finest ingredients to crafting each dish with precision and care, we uphold the highest standards at every step of the process. For instance, our mee sua noodles are still handmade and hand-cut, ensuring an unparalleled texture and flavor. We go the extra mile by importing essential seasonings, marinades, and ingredients directly from Taiwan, maintaining the true essence of Taiwanese cuisine in every bite. Our commitment to quality extends beyond our kitchen doors; our team diligently audits our food sources and taste-tests to guarantee consistency and excellence. Beyond the culinary experience, we strive to evoke the warmth and joy of Taiwan with every dish, fostering a sense of happiness and community with each mouthful. Our proprietary recipes for seasoning powders and marinades, developed over years of dedication, exemplify our refusal to compromise on quality. We honour the people, partners and places that contribute to our culinary journey, ensuring their prosperity as we continue to share the authentic flavours of Taiwan with the world.
What are the essential qualities that you look for in a franchisee?
We are looking for like-minded partners who are passionate about our brand and share our values and vision of becoming one of the top international Taiwan street food brands. Beyond business experience, the necessary capital and market knowledge, we value a partner who is willing to be hands-on or build a strong organizational capability to operate the franchise and to follow our proven operating systems. Above all, we love growing with a partner who is committed to excellence and integrity and can’t wait to share our Taiwan street food culture with the world.
How long does it take, on average, for your franchisee to realize their investment?
Our franchisee’s ROI typically ranges around 36 months, though this is contingent upon the effective execution of our guidelines by the franchisee. The speed of expansion also plays a significant role in determining the timeline. However, it’s important to note that individual circumstances and market conditions may influence the actual time frame.
What is your best achievement?
Our greatest achievement lies in the collaborative effort of building a strong brand alongside a dedicated team. Together, we’ve navigated through numerous challenges, always trusting that there’s a path forward waiting to be discovered. Our journey has led us to remarkable milestones, including being listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and being recognized by Forbes as one of the six best “Under a Billion” companies in Singapore. This recognition not only reflects our commitment to excellence but also underscores the unwavering dedication of our team. It’s the collective perseverance and passion that have propelled us forward, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to have embarked on this journey together
What was your best moment throughout your franchise career?
Each time a master franchise agreement is finalized, it symbolizes the faith and assurance placed in the brand, its products, and the organization. It signifies individuals or entities becoming ambassadors and representatives in their respective countries, showcasing a strong belief in the brand’s values and potential for success.
Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?
As the #1 Taiwanese street food quick-service chain, our goal is to aggressively expand internationally to 1,000 outlets in the next 5 years through continuous product innovation and the establishment of strong customer connections. Anticipate strategic openings, exciting new product offerings, as well as a tech-driven model. We aim to be recognized for our commitment to quality, innovation, and our deep connection with our communities and customers.
Do you have any tips you want to impart to our readers who want to be in the franchise industry?
Embarking on a franchise venture mirrors the journey of marriage; choosing a partner with shared vision and values is paramount. As in any partnership, effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability are essential for overcoming the hurdles that invariably arise along the path of franchise ownership. Just as in marriage, embracing challenges together with a unified spirit can lead to growth, resilience, and ultimately, success in the intricate dance of entrepreneurship.
To read more about Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks, visit their website at www.shihlinsnacks.com.tw/sg/
Source: FranchiseTalk
