Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) has officially deepened its footprint in South Korea by signing a definitive agreement to acquire Shabu All Day, a premier “eat-all-you-can” hot pot chain. The deal, valued at approximately $87 million (around ₱4.9 billion), was announced on February 20, 2026. This acquisition marks Jollibee’s second major Korean investment in less than two years, following its successful takeover of the value-coffee giant Compose Coffee in 2024.
The transaction is being executed through JFC’s subsidiary, Jolli-K Co. Ltd., which will hold a 70% majority stake in All Day Fresh Co. Ltd., the operator of the brand. Private equity firm Elevation Equity Partners Korea, Jollibee’s strategic partner in the region, will retain the remaining 30%. Shabu All Day is currently the leading hot pot chain in South Korea by store count, boasting 169 outlets and generating annual system-wide sales of roughly $285 million.
Jollibee Chairman Tony Tan Caktiong highlighted that the move is perfectly aligned with the group’s “disciplined” approach to international expansion. By entering the “communal dining” segment—a market projected to reach $90 billion globally by 2029—Jollibee aims to leverage the booming popularity of Korean flavors. Shabu All Day is particularly well-known for its premium beef offerings, extensive dessert stations, and high-end, hotel-style dining atmosphere, all while maintaining an accessible price point.
The acquisition is expected to provide an immediate boost to JFC’s financial health, with projections suggesting an 8% growth in global earnings (EBIT) for 2026. This move also brings Jollibee closer to its goal of having its international business contribute to nearly half of its total global revenue. As the company prepares for a potential U.S. stock market listing of its international arm by 2027, the addition of a high-growth, profitable Korean brand provides a strong signal to global investors about the group’s scalability and strategic vision.
With additional report: philstar.com
