Paciugo Gelato & Caffè Looks Eastward For International Expansion

Posted on October 18, 2010 by Jessica Dees

Authentic Italian Gelateria Plans Expansion into South Korea and other Asia-Pacific Markets

DALLAS – Paciugo Gelato & Caffè, a family owned and operated franchisor of authentic Italian gelato shops, today announced plans to bring its hand-crafted artisanal Italian gelato to selected Asia-Pacific markets, beginning with South Korea.

During the past 10 years, Ugo Ginatta, co-founder and CEO of Paciugo Gelato & Caffè and his wife, Cristiana, and son Vincenzo, have grown the brand to 46 franchised locations in the U.S. and Mexico and have developed a world-class manufacturing and distribution infrastructure which delivers the highest quality ingredients and other products to its franchise owners.

At each of its locations, Paciugo Gelato & Caffè handcrafts 30 to 40 gelato flavors each morning in small batches – using only the finest, freshest and healthiest ingredients that Paciugo sources from around the world and supplies to each of its locations including hand squeezed juices and seasonal fruit from local farmers, ultra premium chocolate from Belgium and hazelnuts, pistachios and candied Amarene cherries from Italy. In addition to its award winning gelato, Paciugo Gelato & Caffè’s menu includes all natural, Fair-Trade, 100% Arabica coffees, premium hot chocolate and a variety of hot and cold specialty drinks that combine gelato with coffee and other beverages.

\"Paciugo is now ready to expand our base of operations to new markets outside the U.S., so that we can introduce even more consumers to our signature Italian gelato, sorbetto, coffees and specialty drinks,\" said Ugo. \"We believe that South Korea is one of several Asia-Pacific markets that are primed and ready for Paciugo Gelato & Caffè - and our formidable selection of tasty, healthy and satisfying treats. We look forward to engaging investors in these regions to help us delight new customers throughout the Asia-Pacific region every day.\"

According to industry statistics, the gelato segment is growing rapidly. Global revenues for frozen dessert products, which include gelato, were estimated at more than $36 billion and the impulse sector of that market accounted for $10.2 billion, or 28% of the total global market for frozen dessert products. In addition, current consumer trends strongly favor higher quality and nutritionally balanced foods made with genuine ingredients.

To spearhead its Asia-Pacific expansion, Paciugo Gelato & Caffè has partnered with Bridging Culture Worldwide (BCW), a global consulting firm.

\"Paciugo Gelato & Caffè is currently looking for developers in South Korea and other key Asia-Pacific markets, and we are thrilled to assist in finding the right franchise partners for the brand,\" said Don Southerton, CEO of BCW. \"If a developer meets our criteria, which includes the financial resources to fund a multi-unit development plan, we'd love to talk further about Paciugo Gelato & Caffè.\"

Specific franchise requirements may vary from country to country. Paciugo Gelato & Caffè does not grant franchise rights or explore joint venture agreements without meeting potential franchisees in person.