Armando "Butz" Bartolome · The Franguru
Turn your business into a franchise that grows even without you.
Franchise mentor, business coach and speaker. Founder and president of GMB Franchise Developers, helping Filipino entrepreneurs since 1993.
- 35Years in Business
- 350+Brands Helped
- SpeakerPhilippines · Asia · Monaco

The man behind these brands
Franchise mentor and business coach
Butz Bartolome inspires businesses and organizations to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. He assists micro entrepreneurs who are now known brands in the country.
Together with his wife Lyndah, he has helped over 350 companies, including homegrown names like Potato Corner, Mang Inasal, Julie's Bakeshop, Generika, Fiorgelato and Bayad Center, scale through franchising across the Philippines, Asia, the Middle East and North America.
He is the founder and president of GMB Franchise Developers, based in Mandaluyong; founder and former director of the Association of Filipino Franchisers Inc. (AFFI); a weekly Sunday vlogger at The Manila Times; a columnist at TopNews Asia and a contributor at Business Manual PH.
Brands he helped build







Coaching & Consulting
One-on-one guidance from Butz, built around your goal.
Mentorship
For business owners with a specific goal, such as getting ready to franchise or growing to the next stage. Short-term, one-on-one guidance on one project, with clear goals agreed at the start.
Consultation
For owners and would-be franchisees with a specific business question. A one-on-one meeting with Butz, focused on your question.
Seminars
For companies, schools and organizations. A talk designed around your group's needs, from franchising your business to family business and customer service excellence.
Bring the Franguru to your stage
Butz has spoken to entrepreneurs in the Philippines, Asia and Monaco. Every talk is designed around your audience.
- Franchising Your Business
- Choosing a Franchise
- Starting a Business
- Family Business
- Customer Service Excellence
- Retirement
Latest articles
Negosyo and franchising insights

Aral Mula sa 35 Years: 7 Bagay na Sana Alam Ko Noong Nagsisimula Ako sa Negosyo

Bakit Nahihiya Tayong Maningil? Paano Mag-collect Nang Hindi Nasisira ang Relasyon

Ang Pamana ng Negosyo: What Our Elders Taught Us

Food Cart vs. Kiosk vs. Full Store: Which Franchise Fits Your Budget?

From Seed to Scale: 3 Non-Negotiable Questions Before You Franchise

May 13th Month Ka Na. Pang-Negosyo Na Ba ‘Yan? What to Check Before You Use Your Bonus or OFW Savings
Video
Watch Butz on YouTube
Franchising and business insights, straight from the Franguru.
Visit the YouTube channelBooks & Publications
Author of 6 books on franchising and entrepreneurship.

Book of the Year 2012
Is Franchising For You?
How franchising works, how to spot a real opportunity and avoid scams, and what goes into a franchise agreement.

Nowhere But Up
Practical tips to start a business, choose the right franchise, grow sales and profits, and keep your team motivated.
As seen on







