Meet Memang Meow, Malaysia’s No. 1 local food chain that is sweeping the F&B scene by storm.
Memang Meow is set to capture the hearts of Malaysians
Established in 2020, Memang Meow has rapidly expanded to 20 outlets within half a year in Klang Valley and the numbers are growing.
The burgeoning brand’s catchy name is derived from the Malay word memang, which means truly, and meow, which piques people’s interest and curiosity in finding out who they are. The shop concept is inspired by the typical Malay pondok exuding the balik kampung vibe and inviting urban dwellers to come and lepak at the outlet. That said, Memang Meow perfectly encapsulates the essence and passion of the company in providing the most excellent local food in town. The team shares with Franchise Asia the dynamic brand’s secrets of success and why there is no better time to join them than meow (now).
The shop concept is inspired by the typical Malay pondok, exuding the balik kampung vibe
1. What is the inspiration behind Memang Meow and why did the group decide to embark on the licensing route?
Malaysians’ insatiable love of food has generated a sizable demand in the F&B industry, and we found a nice niche that we can fill. Our tried-and-true approach is to appeal to the local palate, whether it’s with bite-sized snacks or full meals, and we serve high-quality food at a reasonable price that everyone can afford. Importantly, our business model is all about being asset-light. It is proving to be a reliable business model for brave, young entrepreneurs who want to start their own business, with a low-cost outlay that produces high returns.
Memang Meow’s Nasi Lemak with Ayam Masak Merah
Be it bite-sized snacks or full meals, Memang Meow serves high-quality food at affordable prices
In addition to delectable local cuisine, Memang Meow also offers delicious drinks all Malaysians would love
2. Share the secrets of your fast growth to 20 stores within such a short time.
We keep things simple and straightforward and run the business in an uncomplicated manner. Our asset-light strategy requires a lower upfront capital investment due to low rental rates, low renovation fees, and a minimal workforce. At the same time, this translates to high sales, high-profit margins, and ease of operation, enabling us to expand rapidly within a year.
3. What are the strengths of the Memang Meow team that will propel the business further?
The management has implemented measures that improved inter-departmental coordination in order to keep operations running smoothly. This means that problems are nipped in the bud and handled efficiently. The team is also involved in ingredient and recipe research and development, and we conduct a monthly consumer taste survey to ensure continued customer satisfaction. We constantly evaluate the ingredients and our suppliers to guarantee consistent and high food quality. The inspection team will conduct a weekly inspection of the outlet operations, cleanliness, and food quality. The team is also dedicated to lifelong learning and stay current with technology which helps boost productivity.
4. What are the challenges faced and lessons learned thus far in your journey?
Our team has overcome human resource management challenges by simplifying the work standard operating procedure (SOP) so that it is easier for the staff to follow. This ensures that the food quality can be maintained, which improves customer satisfaction.
5. What can licensees expect in terms of support from the licensor?
It is our duty and responsibility as Memang Meow’s licensor to ensure the success of our licensees. Licensees can rely on our more than 25 years of retail management experience to help them operate the company successfully as we are well-versed with the ins and outs of the business. Once the licensee has secured and rented a location, we will step in and assist from start to finish, starting with the renovation, system support, food arrangement, distribution, marketing, among others, before the shop opens.
6. What sets Memang Meow apart from its competitors?
We cater to the local taste buds, from finger food snacks or complete meals, and we serve quality food at an affordable price. Additionally, our customer’s comfort is one of our top priorities. As such, our outlet concept offers a spacious sitting area for customers to enjoy their meal in comfort. This enhances their dining experience and will encourage return customers. We achieved this by allocating a minimal outlet space of 20%-30% for operations, including the kitchen, leaving the rest of the space for the customer seating area.
Memang Meow’s outlet concept offers a spacious sitting area for customers to enjoy their meal in comfort
7. Why is now the best time to become a Memang Meow licensee?
Due to the pandemic, we have our pick of good location options offered at low rental rates, which significantly brings down startup costs. We also have a track record of launching businesses that thrive in the midst of the Covid-19 outbreak.
8. What are the traits of success that a potential licensee should possess?
As the owner of his or her own business, the licensee must be enthusiastic about the business and be diligent to grow it. They must also be team players, eager to learn, strong communicators, and be responsible for preserving and even enhancing our brand’s image.
9. Where do you see opportunities in terms of locations, demographics where Memang Meow can further expand to?
We have plans to establish the Memang Meow brand in petrol stations, hospitals, highway rest stops, universities, schools, office towers, and government buildings. Memang Meow Mart’s 24-hour convenience store model is also in the pipeline. The company’s future growth strategy is focused on Southeast Asia, with trademarks registered in seven countries, namely, Malaysia, China, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, and the Philippines.
10. Any tie-ups with delivery apps or platforms?
In these times, it is essential to offer a food delivery option to ensure business continuity. As such, we are available via GrabFood and Foodpanda.
KEY FACTS
Brand Name: Memang Meow
Holding Company: Georgia Villa Sdn Bhd (730967-U)
Address: No. 7, Jalan Perindustrian Desa Aman 1A, Industri Desa Aman, 52200 Kepong Kuala Lumpur.
Phone: +603 6262 7779 / +6012 273 0779
Website: https://www.memangmeow.com/
Facebook: @memangmeowasia
Instagram: @memangmeowmy
TikTok: @memangmeow.my
Year Established: 2020
Country of Origin: Malaysia
Email Address: memangmeow.my@gmail.com
Type of Business: F&B
Size of units:
Kiosk concept – 300 sq.ft. – 500 sq.ft.;
Café concept – 800 sq.ft. – 1,200 sq.ft.
License Fees: RM 80,000.00
LicenseTerm (years): 5 years
Royalty: 5% G.S.
A&P Fee: 2% G.S.
Estimated Initial Investment: From RM 230,000.00
