Who founded Jollibee, the Philippine fast-food franchise?

Tony Tan Caktiong founded Jollibee, the Philippine fast-food franchise.

Tan Caktiong opened an ice-cream parlor in Quezon City in 1975 with his wife, Grace, and siblings. Customer demand for hot meals led the business to add hamburgers, fried chicken, and other dishes. The restaurant eventually shifted from an ice-cream-focused operation to a broader fast-food concept.

The first Jollibee restaurant opened in Cubao, Quezon City, in 1978. The company adopted the Jollibee name and expanded through a combination of company-operated and franchised locations. Its menu and marketing were designed for Philippine tastes while the brand later expanded internationally.

Jollibee is sometimes confused with other large Philippine companies founded by prominent business families. The chain’s founder is Tony Tan Caktiong, who remains closely associated with its growth.