Welcoming Australian FreakShakes in Asia
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Milkshake treats known as FreakShakes, devised by suburban cafe in the Australian capital of Canberra, have started making inroads to Asia.
Patissez became a social-media sensation last year when it introduced its signature milkshakes piled with cookies, pretzels and even slabs of cake. Also known for its cakes and desserts, the family-owned patisserie was besieged by queues, so a second store was opened in the centre of the city.
Now its first store outside Australia has been attracting crowds since opening in Kuala Lumpur last month.
“We’re thrilled. The team in Kuala Lumpur is excellent,” says owner Anna Petridis. “The store is on Jalan Talawi, Bangsar Village, and it’s beautiful – everything a Patissez store should be. I plan to use that store as the model for all future outlets.”
Patissez has also just opened in Singapore, in the new Raffles Holland Village. “It’s totally different to Kuala Lumpur but has its own flavour, which definitely suits the area and local market,” says Petridis.
Now the company is planning more store locations in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, plus expansion into Bangkok, Beijing and Shanghai. As part of this growth, it is setting up the “Patissez Exchange” which will enable staff members at any level to have the chance to work in the international stores.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which city was the original home of Patissez and its FreakShakes?
Which city was the original home of Patissez and its FreakShakes?
Patissez originated in Canberra, Australia. The first store was opened in a suburban cafe there before its popularity led to a second location in the city centre.
Q.Where are the first international Patissez stores located?
Where are the first international Patissez stores located?
The first international Patissez store opened in Kuala Lumpur last month. A second international outlet has just launched in Singapore, located in Raffles Holland Village.
Q.What is the purpose of the new 'Patissez Exchange' initiative?
What is the purpose of the new 'Patissez Exchange' initiative?
The 'Patissez Exchange' is being set up to allow staff members at any level to gain experience working in the international stores. This initiative supports the company's growth plans.
Q.Which other Asian cities are being considered for future expansion?
Which other Asian cities are being considered for future expansion?
Beyond the current expansion in Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, the company is planning to open stores in Bangkok, Beijing, and Shanghai as part of its future growth strategy.
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