From a single outlet in 2003, The Olive Tree Group has grown into a hospitality empire with 30 restaurants and bars across seven states and two countries. At the helm is Founder and Managing Director Leslie Gomez, whose vision has been to serve not just food, but experiences that bring people together.

In this conversation, Leslie reflects on the capital and grit needed to expand, the realities of profitability in Malaysia’s F&B industry, and how creativity, from immersive atmospheres to award-winning cuisine, keeps the group ahead. He also shares why food and hospitality carry meaning beyond the table, shaping the way we connect and celebrate as a community.

We discuss:

• The 20+ year journey from one outlet to a RM100M+ F&B group.

• The strategy of being self-funded: "one successful outlet gives birth to another."

• Why understanding location, demographics, and landlord relations are key.

• The creative process behind their diverse portfolio of restaurant brands.

• The long-term vision: reaching 50 outlets and a potential public listing.

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