Bakmi GM is one of the most iconic culinary brands in Indonesia, a household name that has transcended generations. However, there is a common misconception among aspiring entrepreneurs regarding its business model.
Here is a comprehensive look at the Bakmi GM business model, its expansion strategy, and its recent historic shift in ownership.
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| Bakmi GM |
1. The Myth of the "Bakmi GM Franchise"
The first thing any prospective investor should know is that Bakmi GM does not operate under a traditional franchise system. Unlike competitors such as Bakmi Naga or various fast-food chains, Bakmi GM has historically maintained a company-owned and company-operated (COCO) model. This approach was chosen to ensure absolute consistency in taste, service quality, and brand integrity—values that the founding family held dearly for over six decades.
Partnership vs. Franchising
While you cannot "buy" a Bakmi GM franchise, the company often engages in strategic partnerships. These usually take the form of:
Property Partnerships: Landowners or mall developers can collaborate with Bakmi GM to open a branch on their premises through a lease or revenue-sharing agreement.
Corporate Catering & Events: High-volume partnerships for corporate offices or large-scale events.
2. The Djarum Acquisition: A New Era
In late 2024 and early 2025, Bakmi GM made headlines with a massive shift in its business structure. The Djarum Group, one of Indonesia’s largest conglomerates, reportedly acquired an 85% stake in the company for approximately Rp 2.1 trillion.
Why the change?
Succession Planning: The original founding family sought an exit strategy as they reached retirement age without a direct successor to manage the massive operations.
Scaling Potential: Under Djarum’s umbrella (which also owns massive retail and digital ecosystems like Blibli and Ranch Market), Bakmi GM is expected to accelerate its national expansion and digital transformation.
3. Core Business Strategy: Quality & Innovation
Bakmi GM’s longevity—from a small 5-table stall in 1959 to a national giant—is built on three pillars:
A. Strict Quality Control (QC)
By avoiding the franchise model, the company centralizes its production. The noodles, seasonings, and their legendary Pangsit Goreng (fried wontons) are produced in a central facility to ensure that a bowl of noodles in Jakarta tastes exactly the same as one in Surabaya or Bali.
B. Adaptive Formats
Bakmi GM has mastered the art of "meeting the customer where they are." Their outlets are divided into several formats:
Classic Restaurants: Large-scale dining in malls or standalone buildings.
Bakmi GM Express: Smaller kiosks in food courts or transit hubs (airports and train stations).
Food Trucks & Takeout Stalls: Mobile units that cater to outdoor events and high-traffic pedestrian areas.
C. Digital Loyalty & Omnichannel
The brand has successfully digitized its fan base through the Bakmi GM App. By integrating a loyalty program, delivery services, and cashless payments, they have remained relevant to Millennial and Gen Z consumers who prioritize convenience.
4. Key Success Metrics
| Category | Details |
| Founded | 1959 by Tjhai Sioe and Loei Kwai Fong |
| Daily Customers | Over 30,000+ per day |
| Menu Variety | 50+ items (Noodles, Rice, Poultry, Seafood) |
| Locations | Jabodetabek, Bandung, Surabaya, Bali, and expanding to Sumatra |
| Market Position | Mid-tier affordable premium |
5. Summary for Investors
If you were looking to open a Bakmi GM franchise in 2026, the current path remains landlord partnership rather than brand licensing. However, with the Djarum Group now at the helm, the industry is watching closely to see if they will eventually pivot toward a sub-franchise model to reach smaller cities faster.
For now, the brand remains a "controlled masterpiece," focusing on heritage and modern efficiency.