Graceland / Baker’s Plaza / Red Platter: A Story of Triumph

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A humble beginning that turned into a powerhouse food business in Naga and Bicol’s major towns and cities. Felipe and Felicidad Dy started the legacy of Graceland. Their willingness to try anything to help them meet the objectives of their growing family was astounding.

Both didn’t finish schooling back in the days but that did not hinder them to become successful entrepreneurs. In 1976, the couple started their small “garage canteen” outside the plaza of Naga, operating with only 4 tables and with a “turo-turo style” menu.

Because of their strong drive to learn different things, the Dy family became one of Bicol’s pride. Creativity, innovation, and hard work made them who and where they are now.

Everything came to place for Graceland when big competitors came into Bicol. This triggered them to level up their game and expand their reach to different provinces in the region. It was the biggest turning point for Graceland as they have been received well from these provinces.

Graceland had become a “must-visit” food outlet in the Bicol region with 28 stores as of February 2016. These include three other food outlets that cater to different tastes in the market (Baker’s Plaza, Geewan, and Red Platter).

With Felipe’s perseverance and faith, he knew the business can grow. It grew with the help of his wife and 9 children who at young ages had different roles in their business. One acts as a cashier while the others act as a waiter and so on. They would attend free baking demonstrations to learn and adapt to changes in the food industry. 

Graceland’s Four Decades in Business

For 40 years in the business, variety had become Graceland’s strength; they have offered different products and menus to satisfy the fast-changing trend in the market. As an entrepreneur, the Dy family continues their success by innovating new products, upgrading their menu, and expanding their reach. Up until now, they still look back as to who they are before Graceland, to keep them motivated to work hard and pass the legacy to their next generation.

According to Ben Dy, the 6th child of Felipe and Felicidad Dy, when starting up a business one should be passionate and persistent. One should also always strive for excellence.

But through the process, never expect everything to be perfect. Always keep in mind that there will always be obstacles and failures. If you are truly interested in what you do, you would try everything to improve it. You will do anything to exceed the needs of the market to reach your vision.

Don’t lose hope and you have to know what you want. You cannot reach your destination if you don’t know where you want to go.

Felipe Dy

HICAPS and Graceland

As Graceland grew through the years, they’ve started to find suppliers that will sustain the quality of their products and will attend to the needs of their production.

Graceland and Hicaps have been partners for 17 years. With this partnership, Graceland found Hicaps very reliable not only with the quality of the products but with the continued support from the company. Having a good relationship with your business partners is one of the important factors in being an entrepreneur. One should build a good foundation not only on the products but also on the service they are giving to their customers.

Graceland / Baker’s Plaza

Contact Number: (054) 473 – 5998

Website: www.graceland.ph • www.bakersplaza.com 

Follow Graceland on Facebook

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About HICAPS

Over the years, HICAPS has helped bakers and businesses make delicious products by offering ingredients like chiffon oil, Magic Whizk Whipping Cream, Red Velvet Emulco, Ube Flavor, and Royal Victoria Cream Cheese. 

HICAPS also provides tools and resources to valued partners such as the free Digital Marketing Plan for Bakery Business E-book and free online dealer locator that helps look for a baking supplies shop near you. 

Want more free tips and tutorials? Follow us on Facebook at Hicaps Mktg. Corp. and on YouTube at HicapsTV. 

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