Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Lucky Theo's Food Products, based in Banna, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, is a locally rooted food processing enterprise specializing in handcrafted fruit and root crop chips. Founded and managed by Suerte Mia Macalma Soriano, the company produces and markets uniquely flavored banana, camote (sweet potato), and taro chips under the Lucky Theo’s brand. Known for its commitment to local sourcing and traditional production techniques, the enterprise plays a key role in the Ilocos Norte region’s agri-value chain.

Core Business and Offerings

Lucky Theo’s Food Products focuses on small-batch, artisanal snack production using locally grown crops. Their product lines include:

• Banana Chips:

  • Honey-Coated Banana Chips – a signature product, known for its natural sweetness and crisp texture.

• Camote Chips:

  • Garlic-Flavored Camote Chips
  • Honey-Flavored Camote Chips

• Taro Chips:

  • Garlic Cheese Taro Chips
  • Sweet-Flavored Taro Chips

These chips are thinly sliced, fried in premium oil, and flavored with natural seasonings, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for flavorful alternatives to mass-produced snacks.

Specialization and USP

Lucky Theo's Food Products sets itself apart through:

• Natural Ingredients: Emphasis on fresh, locally sourced bananas, camote, and taro, avoiding artificial preservatives.
• Unique Flavor Profiles: Use of honey, garlic, and cheese flavoring to create distinctive regional snacks.
• Community Engagement: Sources raw materials directly from local farmers, supporting the rural economy and ensuring ingredient freshness.

The company also packages its products in eco-conscious, resealable pouches to maintain freshness and consumer convenience.

Financials and Performance

As a microenterprise, Lucky Theo’s operates on a modest but scalable business model. Key business indicators suggest:

• Distribution to over 30 local retail outlets and pasalubong centers across Ilocos Norte and neighboring provinces.
• Participation in local and regional trade fairs, such as those organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under its One Town, One Product (OTOP) initiative.
• Steady year-over-year sales growth, with increased visibility through social media promotions and local tourism.

The business is poised for growth through cooperative marketing programs and regional expansion.

Shipment and Export Data

• No confirmed international exports at this time.
• Actively engaged in DTI-led programs for product development, packaging enhancement, and market linkage—indicative of export preparation.
• Products currently distributed within Northern Luzon, with select delivery options for Metro Manila via direct orders.

Target Market

• Local Snack Enthusiasts seeking healthier alternatives to imported chips.
• Tourists and Pasalubong Buyers in Ilocos Norte and adjacent areas.
• Wholesalers and Gift Basket Suppliers interested in artisanal Filipino snacks.
• DTI Trade Fair Attendees exploring regional food entrepreneurship.

Capabilities

• Production Facility: Semi-manual processing unit capable of producing hundreds of bags per day, depending on crop seasonality.
• Packaging: Uses branded, tamper-proof, resealable packaging.
• Supply Chain: Maintains relationships with local farming communities for crop inputs.
• Distribution: Retail through local stores and market stalls; expansion via DTI-backed distribution programs.

Certifications and Compliance

• Registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
• Compliant with local health and sanitation standards through barangay-level business permits.
• Actively participating in capability-building programs organized by government agencies.

Customer Testimonials

Local customers praise the chips for their crunchiness, freshness, and unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. Many prefer the honey-coated banana chips as a guilt-free indulgence, while the garlic camote chips are noted for their authentic regional taste. Visitors often purchase these snacks as souvenirs representing Ilocano culinary culture.

Major Achievements

• Product Development: Created five unique SKUs with distinct flavor offerings from regional crops.
• Recognition: Featured in local entrepreneur showcases and community livelihood promotions.
• Brand Establishment: Built Lucky Theo’s into a recognizable brand across Ilocos Norte.
• Community Upliftment: Provides direct income to local farmers and employment to community processors.

Lucky Theo’s Food Products continues to embody the spirit of Filipino food entrepreneurship—offering authentic, flavorful snacks while supporting sustainable rural livelihoods in Northern Philippines.