Category: News

Chinese Lifestyle Retail Brand KKV eyes 200 Stores in the Philippines

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Chinese lifestyle retail brand KKV continues to scale its presence in the Philippines with plans to open 200 stores within the next three years.

Most recently, the company launched two new stores in Quezon City – one at SM North Edsa and another at Gateway Mall.

The openings take the brand’s store count in the country to four, with more planned throughout this year.

KKV is the flagship brand of KK Group, a multinational retail company whose portfolio also includes The Colorist, a beauty concept store, and X11, a trendy toy brand. KK Group operates approximately 1000 stores across six countries.

Positioned as the group’s core brand, KKV offers more than 20,000 SKUs across eight categories, including cosmetics, homewares, daily essentials, and fashion accessories.

The company launched in the Philippine market last year in partnership with SM, one of the country’s largest retail and mall operators. It is actively seeking more partners to bring two of its other brands into the local market.

“We are committed to optimising our product structure, strengthening localised operations, and building more partnerships with local businesses,” said Rojen Wu, COO of international business operations at KK Group.

 

Original Article: https://insideretail.asia/2025/05/02/chinese-lifestyle-retail-brand-kkv-eyes-200-stores-in-the-philippines/

SSI Group acquires Rustan’s in P232-M deal

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The SSI Group Inc., a prominent player in the Philippines’ retail industry and the official distributor of several luxury international brands, has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Rustan Marketing Corp. (RMK) for P232 million. This move marks a significant expansion of SSI’s footprint in multi-channel retail distribution, allowing the group to broaden its reach across various retail platforms.

In a regulatory filing, SSI revealed that its subsidiary, Stores Specialists Inc. (SSI), has successfully acquired a 99.44 percent stake in RMK. This strategic acquisition allows SSI to diversify and strengthen its presence across specialty stores, department stores, supermarkets, and e-commerce platforms. By acquiring RMK, SSI can now provide its brand partners access to a wider array of retail channels, enhancing its distribution capacity across the Philippines.

Deal highlights and reach

Founded in 1964, RMK has become one of the country’s largest wholesale distributors, specializing in global brands across various categories, including fragrances, beauty, fashion, footwear, luggage, home and lifestyle products. RMK’s portfolio includes well-known international brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, Tefal, Lacoste Fragrances, Maison Margiela, Spanx, OPI Nail Polish, and Nine West.

The acquisition is expected to strengthen SSI’s already formidable retail presence. SSI, which currently manages a portfolio of 96 brands and operates 565 stores across the country, will benefit significantly from RMK’s established wholesale network. The combined entities will be able to offer a more comprehensive distribution system, covering more than 1,300 outlets and major e-commerce platforms nationwide.

RMK, under the leadership of the Tantoco family, posted impressive financial results in 2024. The company reported P1.085 billion in revenues, with an EBITDA of P111.2 million and a net income of P44.2 million. The deal also includes a requirement for RMK’s selling shareholders to inject P232.08 million into the company, further solidifying its financial foundation.

SSI president and CEO Anton Huang has expressed confidence that the acquisition will allow the group to expand its portfolio in 2025, potentially offering up to seven new brands. As the Philippines’ consumption-driven economy continues to grow, SSI aims to capitalize on the increasing demand for premium and luxury products.

The acquisition also aligns with SSI’s vision of becoming a multi-channel distributor of premium brands nationwide. The group is committed to offering a variety of lifestyle choices to Filipino consumers, responding to evolving tastes and preferences. With a strong retail presence, including 111,816 sqm. of gross selling area, SSI is positioning itself at the forefront of the retail industry.

Huang added that SSI’s goal is to continue bringing global lifestyle trends to Filipino consumers, providing them with access to a broad range of luxury, casual, and fast fashion products. The acquisition of RMK will also contribute to the group’s efforts to enhance its online retail presence, meeting the growing demand for e-commerce in the Philippines.

Honoring RMK’s roots

The Tantoco family’s deep roots in the Philippine retail industry have been instrumental in shaping the success of both SSI and RMK. Over the years, the family has nurtured a strong reputation for delivering premium products to the local market, and this acquisition underscores their ongoing commitment to expanding their retail footprint.

With the integration of RMK, SSI Group is poised for even greater success in the future, with enhanced distribution capabilities and an expanded portfolio of global brands that will cater to the diverse needs of Filipino consumers. The acquisition reflects SSI’s strategy of continuous growth and expansion, which has seen the group return to expansion mode in recent years, following a 7.4 percent increase in its gross selling area in 2023.

As SSI continues to broaden its influence in the retail sector, the acquisition of Rustan Marketing Corp. is a significant step toward becoming a comprehensive, multi-channel distributor of premier global brands in the Philippines. With its increased reach and a wider array of retail channels, SSI is well-positioned to remain a key player in the ever-evolving Philippine retail landscape.


Original Article: https://tribune.net.ph/2025/04/20/ssi-group-acquires-rustans-in-p232-m-deal

Metro Retail Creates Pharmacy Subsidiary

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METRO Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) is creating a new pharmacy unit by acquiring Apple Drugstore Corp. from its principal stockholder and making the firm a wholly owned subsidiary.

In a disclosure on Friday, Metro Retail said that last April 4, its board of directors approved the acquisition of Apple Drugstore via the sale of 2,500 common shares held by Viscal Development Corp. (VDC) at P100 apiece or a total of P250,000.

“MRSGI will centralize and manage its pharmacy operations through the creation of a wholly-owned subsidiary, Apple Drugstore Corp.,” the company said.

“The acquisition of Apple Drugstore Corp. is a strategic move to create a dedicated platform or vehicle for optimum operational efficiency, increased flexibility, enhanced focus and performance, and unlocking value,” it added.

The transaction value constitutes less than 10 percent of MRSGI’s total book value, with the company adding that full payment will be made in cash upon signing of the deed of conveyance of shares of stock.

Conditions precedent to closing of the deal include the approval of both companies’ boards and stockholders owning at least two-thirds of the outstanding capital stock of Apple Drugstore.

On Friday, Metro Retail shares rose 2.36 percent to close at P1.30 each.

 

Original Article: https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/04/12/business/corporate-news/metro-retail-creates-pharmacy-subsidiary/2090978#:~:text=METRO%20Retail%20Stores%20Group%2C%20Inc,firm%20a%20wholly%20owned%20subsidiary

Golden Goose Lands in Manila: Here’s Where to Buy Your Latest Fashion Find

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Italian luxury brand Golden Goose has opened its flagship store in the Philippines.

The brand, known for its intentionally distressed sneakers and streetwear, opened a standalone store at the Fashion Square of the Ayala-owned Greenbelt 5 in Makati City.

The 100-square-meter pop-up store, named Fioreria Golden, features stunning flower bouquets inside and out. Its vibrant green paint and tall glass panels create a striking contrast against the lush mall grounds.

Shoppers can customize their Golden Goose sneakers or bags through an in-house service.

Some of the international celebrities photographed wearing Golden Goose sneakers are Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner.

 

Original Article: https://bilyonaryo.com/2025/02/22/golden-goose-lands-in-manila-heres-where-to-buy-your-latest-fashion-find/lifestyle/

PH Private Label Grocery Sales to Hit $896M in 2025 — USDA Report

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RetailWise-socmed-1


Total F&B groceries seen at $12.8B 


The country’s private label grocery market is projected to reach $896 million this year, according to a report by the USDA-Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Manila.

Private label products accounted for 7 percent of total food and beverage (F&B) grocery sales in the Philippines.

Total F&B grocery sales are projected to reach $12.8 billion in the Philippines this year, a 5 percent year-on-year increase, FAS Manila office said in a report dated Jan. 15.

“This growth is expected to continue at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5 percent over the next five years, outpacing the broader Asia Pacific market’s projected CAGR of 4 percent,” according to the FAS Manila.

Private labels are products manufactured or packaged for sale under the name of the retailer rather than that of the manufacturer.

“With some grocery operators aiming to double their private label portfolios within the next five years, significant opportunities exist for exporters to supply US food and beverage products under both US and grocers’ private label brands,” FAS Manila said.

In the past five years, private label products have made up an average of 7 to 10 percent of grocery food and beverage sales in the Philippines which is higher than the Asia Pacific average of 6 percent, FAS Manila said. 

The USDA-FAS Manila regularly reports on food and beverage grocery sales, including private labels, to help American exporters identify existing opportunities for the products in the Philippine market.

As of end-2024, SM Markets, Puregold Price Club and Robinsons Retail dominated the food and beverage grocery sector, which collectively accounted for 50 percent market share in terms of grocery operators, it added.
SM Markets accounted for a 22 percent share through its outlets such as SM Supermarket and Hypermarket, Savemore Supermarket, Alfamart convenience store and Waltermart Supermarket which carries private label brands such as SM Bonus, Alfa Savers and Everyday.

Puregold Price Club had a 16 percent share. Its stores include Puregold Supermarket, Hypermarket and S&R Membership Club selling private label brands like Pure Basics, Member’s Value and Fresh Pick.

Robinsons Retail covered 12 percent of the market. The company operates Robinsons Supermarket, Marketplace Supermarket, Shopwise Hypermarket and Uncle John’s convenience store, with private label brands Surebuy and Healthy You.

Independent grocery operators having a single grocery brand, such as 7-Eleven, Metro Retail Store Group, Super8, Landers and Prince Retail Group, cornered 14 percent of the market.

The remaining 36 percent share was spread over   more than 1.3 million micro-operators located throughout the country.

Original Article: https://malaya.com.ph/business/business-news/ph-private-label-grocery-sales-to-hit-896m-in-2025-usda-report/

Vietnam’s Cong Caphe to debut in the Philippines

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Vietnamese coffee chain Cong Caphe is set to open its first Philippine outlet in February at Gateway 2 Mall in Quezon City.

Known for its signature 1970s-inspired interiors and unique coffee offerings, the brand aims to bring an “authentic Vietnamese coffee experience” to Filipino customers. It makes its coffee using Vietnamese Robusta beans.

Founded in Hanoi in 2007 by former performance artist Linh Dung, Cong Caphe currently operates 66 stores across Vietnam, with 45 located in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. 

The cafe is known for its creative take on traditional Vietnamese coffee, including specialties like coconut coffee, coconut green rice coffee, and coconut pho coffee.

Cong Caphe made its international debut in Seoul, South Korea, in 2018 and has since expanded to Malaysia, Canada, Taiwan, and the Philippines. 


Original Article: https://insideretail.asia/2025/01/08/vietnams-cong-ca-phe-to-debut-in-the-philippines/

Bread Ahead Expands to the Philippines Through Partnership with SFRI

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Bread Ahead Expands into the Philippines: A Culinary Journey Begins

In an exciting development for the culinary landscape of the Philippines, the renowned bakery chain Bread Ahead has forged an exclusive franchise agreement with Specialty Food Retailers Inc. (SFRI). This significant partnership marks Bread Ahead’s inaugural entry into the Asian market, bringing with it a wealth of baking experience and a commitment to quality that has made it a beloved brand in the United Kingdom and beyond.

Founded in London in 2013 by Matthew Jones, Bread Ahead is celebrated for its artisanal approach to baking, specializing in sourdough bread, delectable doughnuts, and New York-style sourdough pizza, among other gastronomic delights. The brand’s reputation was built on a foundation of craft and quality, setting it apart in an increasingly competitive market. With six locations already established across the UK, as well as a growing presence in the Middle East with locations in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, Bread Ahead is poised for continued international growth.

SFRI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Rustan Group of Companies, is strategically positioned to facilitate Bread Ahead’s expansion in the Philippines. The local expertise and established networks of SFRI will be instrumental in launching a total of 15 new bakery locations throughout the archipelago, complemented by a dedicated bakery school. This initiative aims not only to provide high-quality baked goods but also to educate and inspire locals to embrace the art of baking. The bakery school will offer workshops that cover everything from classic techniques to innovative recipes, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft of baking within the community.

The choice to enter the Philippine market reflects a broader trend among international brands looking to tap into the burgeoning culinary scene in Southeast Asia. As food culture continues to evolve, there is a growing appetite for artisanal and specialty food products. The collaboration between Bread Ahead and SFRI will undoubtedly enrich the local food ecosystem, offering a blend of British baking traditions and local tastes.

Furthermore, Bread Ahead’s ambitions do not stop at the Philippine archipelago. Plans are already underway to explore opportunities for advancement into neighboring countries. Such expansions could potentially establish Bread Ahead as a leading force within the region, catering to an expanding demographic of food enthusiasts eager for international flavors and experiences.

In the context of rising interest in food-related experiences, this venture resonates with a growing trend towards experiential dining. As consumers increasingly seek out not just food but the stories behind it, the introduction of a baking school aligns perfectly with contemporary dining philosophies that prioritize engagement and education. Through this fusion of dining and learning, Bread Ahead is set to cultivate a community of baking aficionados, further enhancing its brand loyalty.

As the Philippines grapples with its own unique economic challenges and opportunities in gastronomic tourism, the timing of Bread Ahead’s launch is particularly salient. The establishment of bakeries and a school dedicated to baking empowers local entrepreneurs and creators, enriching the community by fostering skills that can translate into various facets of the local economy.

In light of such developments, the expansion of Bread Ahead serves as a beacon of possibility. It illustrates the impact of thoughtful partnership and dedicated craftsmanship in an evolving global marketplace. As the brand prepares to make its mark on the Philippines, it promises to not only deliver high-quality baked goods but also to contribute to the cultural tapestry of the nation through culinary education and engagement.

In conclusion, the arrival of Bread Ahead in the Philippines signifies a new chapter in the region’s vibrant food scene. With its commitment to excellence and community engagement through educational initiatives, this partnership is poised to leave an indelible mark on the culinary landscape. As we look forward to the opening of these new locations, there is great anticipation for the delicious innovations that will emerge from this exciting collaboration.

The ramifications of such expansions underline the dynamic intersection of global trends and local cultures, illustrating how food can serve as a bridge between communities in an increasingly interconnected world.


Original Article: https://dxbmediagroup.com/bread-ahead-expands-to-the-philippines-through-partnership-with-sfri/

 

 

YouTube and Shopee Partner in Southeast Asia E-Commerce Tie-Up

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ALPHABET’S YouTube and e-commerce platform Shopee said on Wednesday (Sep 18) they were launching an online shopping service in Indonesia and planned to expand it in South-east Asia as competition picks up with a rival operator owned by TikTok.

Under the YouTube Shopping tie-up, people will be able to purchase goods viewed on YouTube through links to Shopee, which is owned by South-east Asian technology conglomerate Sea Ltd. Company executives told reporters they plan to expand the service to Thailand and in Vietnam in a few weeks. YouTube Shopping is already active in South Korea and the US.

Indonesia’s “energy and velocity around online shopping” is what prompted the launch, YouTube Asia-Pacific director Ajay Vidyasagar said in Jakarta. With YouTube Shopping, Alphabet and Shopee will be competing against TikTok, the Bytedance-owned video app, which has increased its ambitions for the region after taking control of Indonesia’s biggest e-commerce platform Tokopedia.

Asked about the size of the partnership with Shopee, Vidyasagar said it was very significant, but declined to give numbers. He said YouTube Shopping would be opened to partners other than Shopee “in a phased, sequenced manner.” Reuters reported last year, citing sources, that YouTube was planning to apply for a licence to operate e-commerce services in Indonesia, South-east Asia’s largest economy.

TikTok’s shopping service, TikTok Shop, accounted for US$16.3 billion in 2023 in gross merchandise value in South-east Asia, in a nearly fourfold jump from the previous year, consultancy Momentum Works said in a report.

This has made the platform the region’s second largest e-commerce platform after Shopee.

The region of nearly 700 million is one of the world’s fastest growing e-commerce markets. The Momentum Works report said South-east Asia’s eight largest e-commerce platforms racked up US$114.6 billion in gross merchandise value in 2023, up 15 per cent from 2022. REUTERS

 

TAKEAWAY:

This news marks a significant shift in how businesses and retailers should align their future strategies, particularly in terms of marketing and growth. As the collaboration between YouTube and Shopee begins in Indonesia and soon expands to Thailand and Vietnam, it’s only a matter of time before the Philippines becomes the next market to adopt this trend. With the rapid growth of the local e-commerce sector and platforms like TikTok providing stiff competition, businesses must stay ahead of the curve by embracing new, integrated shopping experiences that combine entertainment with commerce.

For retailers and brands in the Philippines, this signals a need to rethink traditional marketing approaches and adapt to the evolving digital landscape. The ability to seamlessly link content with purchasing decisions offers an exciting opportunity to engage consumers in a more interactive and immediate way, potentially driving higher conversion rates. As the digital economy continues to flourish, businesses that proactively align their strategies with these innovations will be well-positioned for long-term success.

The question now is: how will Filipino businesses adapt, and are they ready for this new wave of e-commerce?

 

Original Article: https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/consumer-healthcare/youtube-and-shopee-partner-south-east-asia-e-commerce-tie

 

81% of Filipino TikTok Users Turn to the Platform for Christmas Shopping, Says Report

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TikTok shopping is taking over Christmas shopping as the majority of TikTok users discover new brands and products for the season through the platform.

Move aside Jose Mari Chan, TikTok is growing to be synonymous with Filipino Christmas celebration and shopping this 2024. According to two studies commissioned by TikTok on Christmas and New Year behaviors of Filipinos, TikTok users are increasingly turning to the popular short video platform for community, entertainment and holiday TikTok shopping. With the growing dominance of the platform, it comes as no surprise that TikTok now occupies a central part in the Philippines’ biggest holiday.

A clearer picture of Filipino habits during the holiday season is emerging thanks to a 2024 report by research company Toluna. According to the report, 81% of TikTok users gather with friends and family, with 74% giving gifts, and 66% celebrating with Christmas parties.

Notably, shopping habits of Tiktok users have also been revealed. 60% of Filipino TikTok users reported spending time shopping for the season, with some doing so as early as September. In addition, according to a second report by Kantar Profile, 81% of Filipino TikTok users rely on the platform to discover new brands and products. And 77% of users go to TikTok to answer their shopping needs.


TikTok Shopping in Mega Sales Delight Shoppers


Tiktok’s Mega Sales are a prime driver for shopping on the TikTok platform. In the previous year, 84% of TikTok users were reported to have participated in these Mega Sales. This year, they are projected to increase their spending on TikTok by a factor of 2.3 times, compared to non-TikTok users. TikTok users are also expected to be 1.9 times more likely to spend more on Christmas gifts this year over the previous year.

This growth marks the emergence of TikTok as a preferred platform for shoppers during sales.

Paolo David, Philippine Brand and Partnerships Head at TikTok, said in a statement, “As the holiday season unfolds, TikTok continues to be a pivotal platform for Filipinos to celebrate Christmas. Whether it’s for discovery, entertainment, or shopping, TikTok offers a unique space where users can fully immerse themselves in the festive spirit. By understanding and engaging with the platform’s diverse shopping personas, brands can better position themselves to connect with a highly engaged audience, ensuring success throughout the holiday season and beyond.”


A Profile of Filipino TikTok Shoppers


Through the TikTok-commissioned study by Kantar Profile, a clearer picture of Filipino TikTok users is also emerging. The research company identified four distinct shopping personas from the study, which brands on the platform can use to generate insight and drive their marketing campaigns. The four personas of TikTok shoppers are:

  1. Bargain Hunters 

These users actively search for the best deals online and seek vouchers. 74% use TikTok more than once a day, and 78% shop weekly on various e-commerce platforms.

  1. Inspirational Shoppers 

For these users, shopping is an exploratory experience. They like to discover new brands and new shopping trends. 78% use TikTok daily, and 82% shop weekly. They are 1.2 times more likely to shop on social media.

  1. Effortless Shoppers 

These users make purchases for convenience, and prefer quick and easy shopping experiences. 73% use TikTok daily and 80% prefer hassle-free checkout.

  1. Purposeful Shoppers 

More considered than the other personas, these users like brands that align with their personal values, such as sustainability. 77% of them use TikTok more than once a day. They seek out brand-specific websites and are twice as likely to shop on these platforms.


Original Article: https://thebusinessmanual-onemega.com/news/filipino-tiktok-users-turn-to-platform-christmas-tiktok-shopping-says-report/

Seafood City Launches in the Philippines

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US-based and Filipino-founded grocery chain Seafood City has launched its digital marketplace in the Philippines and North America in a bid to expand the reach of global and domestic brands.

SFC+ on Wednesday said its mobile app was currently available for select users, but it would be available for download via the Google Play Store and App Store by Oct. 15.

The company said that users based in the Philippines may buy products from physical stores of Seafood City, with 38 branches located in the United States and Canada, for delivery to their relatives abroad.

Similarly, their North America-based loved ones can send money through the app or buy products from partner Filipino brands and have these delivered to addresses in the Philippines.

The company has so far partnered with the SM Group, Philippine Airlines, Smart Communications, Globe Telecom Inc., among others. Users can also pay their bills or invest in real estate—SM Development Corp. condominiums, specifically—through the app, SFC+ said.

“We created this app with the goal of reaching and serving more Filipinos globally, as well as to enrich and meet their ever-evolving lifestyle demands,” SFC+ Inc. president and CEO Elewin Rebaya said during the launch event.

Seafood City is a so-called grocerant, a portmanteau of the words grocery and restaurant, founded in 1989 by Filipinos in the United States.

According to Rebaya, they want their 400,000 active members in North America to use the app before eventually expanding to other regions with a high presence of Filipino emigrants. Seafood City is currently only available in the United States in Canada.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that as of September last year, there were 2.16 million Filipinos working abroad.

Of this, 77.4 percent are in Asia, mostly the Middle East, while 9.8 percent are in North and South America, 8.4 percent in Europe, and 3 percent in Australia.

“Our objective is really to go global,” Rebaya told reporters. “It’s not in a specific region where we have physical stores, but since this is technology, anybody can use it all around the globe.”


Original Article: https://business.inquirer.net/480921/seafood-city-launches-in-the-philippines