By opening the first Filipino bakery in Spain, Rachel Anne Daquis reps the Philippines in the most unusual way for a volleyball star.
Rachel Anne Daquis is not just a certified volleyball professional. Now, she’s also a full-time business owner, adding another feather to her already-colorful cap.
Earlier this year, Daquis shared her latest venture where she opened the first Filipino Bakery in Barcelona, Spain: Forn de Manila.
But how did this business of hers come into fruition?
Speaking on One News’ Afternoon Delights, Daquis explained that they planned on establishing a bakery due to the increasing demand for bread in their area. RAD has two titas in Spain who have been long-time bakers and suppliers.
“Lagi kasi ako nandito, binibisita ko sila, so nagpa-plano na talaga kaming mag-tayo ng isang bakery. Pero ang una naming naisip is palakihin lang 'yung supply, kasi ang taas na ng demand ng breads dito sa amin,” said Daquis.
“Ang plano namin dito sa store namin is dito na lang 'yung gawaan para ma-[keep] up namin lahat ng demands na hinihingi ng Filipinos dito, at tsaka mga Español sa breads namin,” the Cignal star added.
Build it and they will come. And true enough, business has been boomin' for RAD's new bakery since Forn de Manila opened its doors.
“Eventually naisip namin na bakit nga hindi namin buksan itong bakery para sa mga walk-in customers, doon nagsimula," she said.
"Tinry lang namin na siyang buksan as parang physical store pero grabe, overwhelming talaga na pinipilahan kami,” added Daquis. “Kaya't kami ding tatlo ay na-shock na ganun ang suporta sa amin. Sobrang happy kami.”
Forn de Manila has been a huge success, Daquis and her humble team were even honored by the Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona.
“Actually, sabi ko nga, representing the Philippines from sports to business [ay] sobrang iba 'yung feeling niya eh,” said Daquis. “Sabi ko nga dati, ire-represent ko lang siya sa volleyball but ngayon di ba, Filipino pride na produktong Pinoy.”