Small and medium-sized enterprises took the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic and many of them struggled to keep afloat. Barista Andrew Magana's Typica Coffee in Antipolo City was one of the casualties.
Magana and his business partners knew it was risky to continue. But as lockdown restrictions eased, he saw an opportunity — he rented an apartment with a sari-sari store in front and rebirthed Typica Coffee as a Japanese-inspired coffee shop.
"Fan kasi ako ng Japanese coffee scene. Not because fancy but natutuwa ako how they innovate pagdating sa coffee," he said. He was inspired by the Japanese practice of "Kodawari" or the "uncompromising and relentless pursuit of perfection".
As such, he has developed the grab-and-go concept which offers budget-friendly and relatable drinks and food. Satisfied customers easily spread the word, and social media took notice of his unique coffee business now based in Taytay, Rizal.
Watch his full story in this video:
