How Justin Uy Built His Business Empire

Justin Sy Uy is a successful Cebuano entrepreneur and the founder of Profood International Inc., known for its dried mango products. Born into a large Chinese Filipino family in Cebu, Uy was the youngest of 11 siblings. His father was a salesman for a cigarette company located in Manila, while his mother was the quintessential housewife.

Despite his father’s career in sales, Uy had aspirations of becoming a chemical engineer, but his plans changed after he pursued his degree at the University of San Carlos.

Uy’s entrepreneurial spirit started to take shape during his high school years when he and a brother established a shell craft fashion accessory business.

Although it was short-lived, Uy continued to explore different business opportunities, such as poultry and mushroom farming. It was not until he discovered the potential in dried mangoes that he truly found his calling. In 1980, at just 19 years old, Uy founded Profood International Inc.

Initially, Uy struggled to establish his business domestically, but he quickly pivoted and focused on producing products for export. This led him to set his sights on establishing a manufacturing plant in Cambodia for the production of dried mangoes from the Philippines.

Today, Profood’s products are available in over 50 countries, and the company is known for its dried and processed fruits, including the “Philippine Brand Dried Mangoes.”

Uy’s success in the business world extends beyond his involvement with Profood. He has also made a name for himself in the retail industry, having built the JCentre Mall and invested in BXT Corporation, which runs the Jpark Island Resort & Waterpark.

Despite the challenges he faced in the early stages of his career, Uy’s determination and entrepreneurial spirit have driven him to where he is today – a successful businessman who continues to make a significant impact in the Philippines and beyond.

Justin Sy Uy’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. From humble beginnings, he has built a multi-million-peso company and continues to be a major player in the Philippine business scene.

His unwavering commitment to his vision, coupled with his ability to adapt to changing circumstances, has made him a true inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. (GFB)