Arequipa is set to become the site of the first María Almenara pastry shop outside of Lima, marking a significant step in the company’s national expansion plans, according to a report by Gestión. The move comes as the Peruvian pastry chain invests $2.5 million in broadening its reach beyond the capital city.
The expansion into Arequipa follows a recent opening at the Mall Aventura Santa Anita in Lima Este, the company’s 21st store, and a broader strategy that includes digital formats and delivery-focused locations. Founded by chef María Almenara, the company has sought to modernize the traditionally static Peruvian pastry business, according to Horeca&Retail.
Meanwhile, another established Peruvian bakery, Tortas Lucas, is seeking investors to fuel its own national expansion. With 44 years in operation, Tortas Lucas has validated its business model through two locations in Lima – Miraflores and San Borja – and is now looking to replicate that success in other cities, according to Peru Retail. The company highlights its consistent margins and loyal customer base as key assets.
María Almenara’s expansion strategy also includes plans to open locations in Trujillo, replicating the model that has proven successful in Lima. The company currently employs over 320 people and emphasizes sustainable practices in its operations, from production to resource management. The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its product creation and operational practices.
Don Mamino is also preparing new openings in Lima for 2026, including a new format alongside its traditional model, according to Gestión. Grupo Man Pan, the parent company of several top pastry chains, is also seeking to expand into new sectors, while strengthening its operational infrastructure.
Tortas Lucas’s decision to seek investment is framed as a way to ensure the continuity of the brand and its legacy while providing resources for growth. The company has standardized processes and optimized its supply chain, creating a replicable model for new locations. The company’s focus on artisanal, fresh, and premium-quality products, using natural ingredients, is seen as a key differentiator.
María Almenara recently inaugurated a new store on Jr. Monterrey 275 in Santiago de Surco, Lima, further solidifying its presence in high-traffic urban areas, according to Directorio Horeca.
