Daniel Nguyen and Katherine Lam, childhood sweethearts and co-founders of Bambuza Hospitality Group, focus on growth in the culinary industry while maintaining a balance in their personal lives. Bambuza emphasizes its roots in Vietnamese culture and plans to expand its brand portfolio significantly. The couple is committed to community involvement, exemplified by their recognition in the Asian Hall of Fame.
Daniel Nguyen and Katherine Lam, partners in both life and business, adhere to a household rule aimed at maintaining work-life balance: not to bring work home. Childhood sweethearts, they co-founded Bambuza Hospitality Group in 2003, holding positions as CEO and COO, respectively. They manage a diverse portfolio that includes The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Sambazon, Avolta, and several restaurant concepts, reflecting their culinary heritage.
Focusing on expansion predominantly within airports, Bambuza has established restaurants in multiple states, leveraging high foot traffic to enhance brand visibility. Nguyen emphasized the strategic advantage of airports, noting the unparalleled exposure they provide to millions of travelers. The couple developed the name ‘Bambuza’ as a tribute to the bamboo plant, symbolizing community and integrity, which aligns with their Vietnamese roots.
Both Nguyen and Lam have personal connections to food from an early age, drawn from their family backgrounds in the culinary industry. The company aims to grow its brand portfolio to 13 locations by the end of the year and is set to introduce a new concept called Connections Gourmet Market, which will celebrate Asian American culinary contributions.
Scheduled to launch in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Connections will focus on Asian-inspired products and entrepreneurs. Lam expressed the company’s commitment to raising awareness of Vietnamese cuisine as they aim to establish a national presence. Adaptability and strategic innovation remain essential to their growth.
In addition to business ventures, Nguyen serves as an Oregon State Representative and is engaged in local governance, while Lam plays an active role as a commissioner for the Port of Portland. They hold their involvement in public service in high regard, with Nguyen reflecting on their immigrant backgrounds and the importance of giving back to the community.
Nguyen and Lam’s contributions have not gone unnoticed; they were inducted into the Asian Hall of Fame, marking a significant recognition for their influence in the community. Nguyen expressed gratitude for the opportunities they have received and emphasized their commitment to paying it forward through civic engagement.
Daniel Nguyen and Katherine Lam exemplify a successful partnership in both business and community service, rooted in their Vietnamese heritage. Through Bambuza, they are not only expanding their restaurant business but also promoting Vietnamese cuisine on a national scale. Their active involvement in public service highlights their commitment to giving back, establishing them as role models in their community.
Original Source: www.franchisetimes.com
