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Olam Food Ingredients (OFI) has formed a joint venture with WNC Capital Holdings to expand the production of savoury food solutions in the Philippines.
The JV, which builds on the partnership between OFI and WNC subsidiary Wills International, will see the establishment of OFI Philippines Blends. It includes the development of a new manufacturing facility in Bulacan province, to be commissioned by Q4 2026.
When fully operational, the facility will expand seasoning and flavour development capabilities to support growing demand for faster innovation, greater customisation and solutions aligned with local taste preferences.
OFI Philippines Blends will focus on savoury solutions like seasonings, marinades, dry mixes and related applications that balance ‘cultural authenticity and healthier indulgence,’ the ingredients group said.
The JV combines OFI’s global footprint, innovation and product expertise with WNC Capital Holdings’ established customer relationships and nationwide reach.
OFI Philippines Blends’ aim is to become the leading ingredients partner for brands in the Philippines, enabling local manufacturers and foodservice operators to navigate shorter product cycles, increased competition and rising expectations for flavour relevance while managing cost, consistency and scale.
It is also expected to enable closer collaboration with F&B brands from concept through commercialisation, providing brands with more diverse options, reduced reliance on imported solutions and faster iteration tailored to Filipino taste profiles.
According to OFI’s TrendBites Asia Pacific consumer insights report, published earlier this year, 86% of Filipino consumers surveyed want more menu items inspired by local recipes. Additionally, more than eight in ten are open to global influences, such as Japanese, Chinese and Korean flavours.
OFI Philippines Blends will also connect Philippine-based customers to OFI’s wider Asia Pacific footprint, including Customer Solutions Centers and manufacturing hubs across the region.
Ramki Prasad, head of Asia Pacific F&B solutions at OFI, said: “The Philippines is one of the most dynamic food markets in Southeast Asia. Being closer to customers with enhanced capabilities strengthens our ability to collaborate, shorten development cycles and execute with confidence.”
Prasad said WNC’s “deep understanding” of how manufacturers operate across the Philippines complements OFI’s consumer insights, innovation capability and scale.
William Chuacokiong, founder and president of WNC Capital Holdings, said: “Philippine food brands are rooted in strong culinary heritage, and many are now looking outward. We have worked with local manufacturers for many years and partnered with OFI as their distributor in the Philippines. This JV formalises a trusted collaboration and strengthens our ability to support homegrown brands as they grow locally and compete globally”.
“Global interest in Filipino flavours continues to rise. This partnership places the right capabilities in-market to help brands meet international expectations while preserving what makes their products distinctive.”