How training, digital tools, and perseverance transformed Nicolai’s Cuisine into a thriving business
Cebu has long been known as a hub of hardworking entrepreneurs, from bustling sari-sari stores to family-owned carinderias. But behind every successful venture is often a story of resilience, learning, and the right support system. This is the case for Juniel and Salome Lucero of Pinamungahan, Cebu, whose homegrown food business, Nicolai’s Cuisine, rose from modest beginnings to become a thriving enterprise—thanks in part to Coca-Cola Philippines’ iSTAR Program.
From Packed Lunches to a Growing Enterprise
The Luceros opened Nicolai’s Cuisine in 2018, driven by Juniel’s dream of building a stable livelihood after returning from working abroad and Salome’s passion for cooking. Like many small businesses, their start was rocky. Sales were inconsistent, their location had low foot traffic, and they lacked systems for managing operations.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced them to rethink their approach. Shifting online, they began selling packed lunches and built a loyal customer base. Over time, their offerings expanded to catering services, lechon belly packages, and even a sideline trading in food packaging materials. What started as a home kitchen now serves clients from across Cebu.
Turning Struggles into Opportunities Through Training
The couple credits their turnaround to Coca-Cola’s entrepreneurship training. In 2019, Juniel joined the STAR Program, the foundation of today’s iSTAR (Innovative Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources) Program. Later, in July 2024, both enrolled in iSTAR through the Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative, where they learned product costing, online marketing, digital payments, and customer engagement.
By applying these lessons, they used online platforms to reach more customers. As Salome shared, moving online was a game-changer. “Sales were really strong online. Living in the countryside, digital tools allowed us to connect with more people. We thought, why only now? But it’s never too late.”
Creative promotions—like raffles for lechon belly, free delivery, and seasonal menu items—helped them strengthen customer loyalty and grow revenue. Their monthly income rose from ₱30,000 to ₱50,000, enabling them to better provide for their children’s education and future.
Recognition and Wider Opportunities
Today, Nicolai’s Cuisine is officially registered with PhilGEPS, opening doors to government contracts and larger institutional clients. Their efforts also earned them the Top One Most Impactful and Inspiring Award under iSTAR: HERStories, which celebrates entrepreneurs who applied their training to achieve meaningful growth.
Reflecting on their journey, Juniel and Salome encourage other small business owners to seize opportunities. “If you’re willing to learn, the training is free and worth it. Don’t be afraid to grab the opportunities that come your way.”
Coca-Cola’s Legacy of Empowering Entrepreneurs
The iSTAR Program builds on Coca-Cola’s STAR Program launched in 2012, which empowered around 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In 2020, iSTAR was introduced to equip entrepreneurs with skills for today’s digital economy. Strengthened further in 2024 with the launch of Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in key regions, the initiative has already produced more than 300,000 graduates nationwide.
This ongoing commitment reflects Coca-Cola’s belief that uplifting Filipino micro-entrepreneurs not only transforms families but also strengthens communities and local economies.
A Recipe for Success
The story of Nicolai’s Cuisine shows how the right mix of passion, training, and innovation can help Filipino family businesses thrive. With Coca-Cola’s iSTAR Program reaching more MSMEs nationwide, countless other entrepreneurs may soon follow in the Luceros’ footsteps—turning small beginnings into sustainable enterprises.
For more inspiring reads, explore our features on entrepreneurship success stories, local food culture and innovation, and digital tools shaping small businesses.
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