Category: News

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

Robinsons Enters Into Hard Discount Retailing

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MANILA, Philippines — Gokongwei-owned Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI) is looking at dominating the hard discount store segment with an aggressive expansion mapped out for O!Save.

RRHI COO Stanley Co told The STAR that the O!Save Trading Philippines Corp. is targeting to grow its network by opening an average of 200 stores every year.

O!Save, a hard discount supermarket chain founded in 2021, currently has over 300 stores in the country.

“We just opened our 300th store a few days ago so I think O!Save is expected to end the year with 400 stores, more or less,” Co said.

‘There are a lot of things that come into play when we open a store. There are so many dependencies. As much as possible this is our target, but sometimes, it gets derailed a bit,” he said.

All of O!Save’s stores are currently situated in Luzon, but Co said the company is open to expanding in Visayas and Mindanao in the future.

“O!Save started in Angeles then moved to Bulacan then moved to Metro Manila by way of our Taytay distribution center. And then the fourth one is about to open in Pangasinan. So the expansion now is going towards north,” he said.

As a hard discount retailer, O!Save offers the lowest possible prices for its products that are focused primarily on basic food, household and personal care.

O!Save said its stores are simple and not larger than needed. It also does not rent stores in expensive locations and also avoids anything, which is not necessary that could potentially increase the sales price of its products.

RRHI, one of the country’s top retailers, entered the hard discount category through a minority stake in O!Save.

RRHI president and CEO Robina Gokongwei-Pe told The STAR that the company is currently pleased with its investment in the hard discount supermarket chain.

She said RRHI also has no plans to increase its stake in O!Save at present.

O!Save’s biggest competitor in the country currently is DALI Everyday Grocery, which is operated by Hard Discount Philippines Inc.

DALI, which started commercial operations in February 2020, was previously eyeing to grow its store network to 900 to 950 by the end of the year.


Original Article: https://www.philstar.com/business/2024/09/05/2382870/robinsons-enters-hard-discount-retailing

Kopi Kenangan to Enter the Philippines and India

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Indonesian coffee chain Kopi Kenangan – also known as Kenangan Coffee – is expanding its global footprint, beginning with the launch of its first stores in India and the Philippines.

The company will open its first Philippine store in October at SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

In India, Kopi Kenangan will make its debut early next year through a licensing agreement with a local F&B business. However, specific details have yet to be finalised. 

During its initial expansion phase in Southeast Asia, the company said it would focus on establishing at least 10 stores in shopping centres.

“Our expansion into Malaysia and Singapore is a testament to our commitment to serving quality coffee to more people around the world,” said Edward Tirtanata, founder and CEO of Kopi Kenangan.

“Moving forward, we hope to continue expanding our reach by opening 500 international Kenangan Coffee outlets across various countries,” he said.

Founded in 2017, Kopi Kenangan is one of the largest branded coffee chains in Indonesia, with more than  900 outlets across 60 cities.

The brand made its international debut in Malaysia in 2022, followed by an expansion into Singapore last year, where it currently operates 48 and seven locations, respectively.

Original Article: https://insideretail.asia/2024/08/30/kopi-kenangan-to-enter-the-philippines-and-india/

Metro Retail Opens First Home Improvement Store in Angeles City

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Homeowners and DIY enthusiasts in Pampanga now have a new go-to place for their home improvement needs.

Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) has officially launched its first Metro Home Improvement store at Marquee Mall, Angeles City, which offers a wide array of home improvement and enhancement products.

Spanning 1,000sqm, the store houses a comprehensive selection of hardware, lawn and garden supplies, car and pet care products, appliances, electronics, housewares, and storage solutions.

To ensure a convenient shopping experience, the store is thoughtfully designed with clearly marked sections.

“This marks a monumental step as we introduce our first Metro Home Improvement store format, a key part of our aggressive expansion strategy. This store represents our commitment to being a dependable partner for the hardworking moms and dads who strive to create the best lifestyle for their families,” said Manuel Alberto, Chief Operating Officer of MRSGI.

The new store boasts several exclusive brands and product lines, along with interactive displays and appliance demonstration areas. Customers can also look forward to exciting promotions and unique finds.

“We have ambitious plans to expand across various locations, continuously innovating and improving to serve our customers better. By pairing our home improvement format with our existing Metro Supermarkets, we ensure a seamless shopping experience that saves time and delivers quality products, all under one roof,” Alberto added.

Original Article: https://www.speed.ph/metro-home-improvement-store-angeles-city/

Watsons Continues to Champion Sustainable Retailing in the Philippines with the Opening of Its First Greener Store in San Pedro, Laguna

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Watsons, the leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, is proud to announce the grand opening of its first greener store in San Pedro, Laguna. This milestone is a testament to Watsons’ steadfast commitment to sustainability, setting a new standard for a more eco-friendly retail in the Philippines.

Today, we proudly inaugurate the first Watsons Greener Store in San Pedro, Laguna, this store sets a new standard in sustainable retailing, embodying our dedication to fostering a vibrant culture of sustainability in every facet of our operations. By empowering our customers to embrace sustainable products and practices, we aim to make a meaningful impact on our planet.

– Jin P. Jimenez
Director for Store Operations

Sustainable Elements of a Greener SThe Watsons Greener Store is a pioneering project, utilizing renewable energy, sustainable store materials, and energy-efficient appliances. The store’s materials and fixtures adhere to greener building standards, earning certification from Pi Energy Inc. This ensures that the store’s operations align with environmental standards, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

Sustainable Elements of a Greener Store :

Renewable Energy Sources: The store is primarily powered by solar energy, exemplifying Watsons’ dedication to minimizing its environmental impact through sustainable energy solutions. By utilizing solar panels, the store saves approximately 7.5 tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to the CO2 absorption of around 377 trees annually.

The Watsons Greener Store uses sustainable materials and fixtures with no plastic components and utilizes energy-efficient lighting and appliances, reducing environmental impact.

Sustainable In-store Materials & Fixtures: Marketing materials, including signages and displays, are crafted from Solidus material instead of Sintra board containing PVC or plastic reducing environmental impact. Additionally, all marketing materials are made from recycled paper and boards with FSC® certification, ensuring they originate from responsibly managed forests. The store also utilizes wood for its display racks and fixtures, further enhancing its commitment to sustainability.

Energy-Efficient Appliances: The store uses LED lights that do not contain toxic materials, are 100% recyclable, and reduce energy consumption by up to a third. Additionally, the store utilizes inverter air conditioners and refrigerators that consume 40% less energy than conventional units.

Sustainable Choices Products: Watsons offers a wide range of sustainable choices products that advocate Clean Beauty, Better Ingredients, Refill Packs & Better Packaging from responsibly- sourced materials. 

Refill Station: Watsons introduces the first refill station outside Metro Manila, customers can conveniently replenish their Naturals by Watsons bottles with their favorite body wash and shampoo variants. The store also sells refillable bottles with screw caps, allowing customers to save up to 40% compared to standard purchases.

Waste Minimization Initiatives: The store encourages customers to bring reusable shopping bags and actively promotes waste reduction, segregation, and recycling.

The store opening was attended by Jin P. Jimenez, Director for Store Operations, Alisandrea Coloma, Senior Manager for Sustainability alongside local government officials Hon. Ramil Hernandez, Governor of the Province of Laguna, and Hon. Mayor Art Francis Mercado of San Pedro, Laguna. Their presence underscores the collaborative effort between Watsons and the local community to promote sustainable development in the province. 

“Today, we proudly inaugurate the first Watsons Greener Store in San Pedro, Laguna, this store sets a new standard in sustainable retailing, embodying our dedication to fostering a vibrant culture of sustainability in every facet of our operations. By empowering our customers to embrace sustainable products and practices, we aim to make a meaningful impact on our planet,” said Jin P. Jimenez, Director for Store Operations.

The opening of Watsons Greener Store marks a significant shift towards sustainable practices in the retail industry, making sustainability a more achievable goal for everyday shoppers. Watsons aims to minimize waste and empower customers to make eco-conscious choices, contributing to a healthier planet. By integrating sustainability into its operations, Watsons reduces its environmental footprint and inspires customers to adopt greener lifestyles. This commitment reflects Watsons’ broader mission to foster a healthier planet while empowering individuals to make informed, sustainable choices.

For more information about the Watsons Greener Store and its sustainability initiatives, follow   @watsonsph on Instagram, like @WatsonsPH on Facebook, and follow @watsonsphilippines on TikTok.

Original Article: https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/580406/watsons-continues-to-champion-sustainable-retailing-in-the-philippines-with-the-opening-of-1st-greener-store-in-san-pedro-laguna

Heyday Offers Fresh Sales this Earth Month!

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On April 10 (Wednesday), customers flocked to Heyday for discounted prices on Farm to Fresh produce! With sustainability and health-consciousness increasingly at the forefront of consumer priorities, Heyday’s promotion under the Fresh category struck a chord with a diverse array of shoppers. 

With each basket brimming with fresh, locally-sourced produce, customers not only secured a bounty of nutritious ingredients but also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting a more sustainable shopping experience. The sale showcased how much people care about where their food comes from and how it’s grown. By buying from Heyday, shoppers could feel good about supporting local farms while getting nutritious food at a great price!

Heyday is Manila’s newest health and wellness superstore, located in Glorietta 4, G/F. Dedicated to supporting customers in their journey towards living their best lives. Dedicated to supporting customers in their journey towards living their best lives, Heyday Philippines offers a meticulously curated selection of global and local products.

Curious about the next promotions offering discounted prices and great deals on fresh produce? Don’t worry—RetailWise has got you covered!  

For more information about Heyday, visit https://heyday.ph/

AI Powered Convenience Store Chain Re-Up to Deploy Autonomous Kitchens

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Re-Up, the world’s first AI-powered convenience store, redefining gas stations with cutting-edge technology, today announced that the company will be installing autonomous robotic chefs at a variety of locations powered by Nala Robotics, an AI technology company revolutionizing the culinary industry.

The Wingman by Nala Robotics is an autonomous fry station that can easily be added or configured to any restaurant or commercial food service operation. Re-Up will leverage Nala Robotics’ advanced artificial intelligence technology to enhance its food service offerings, enabling customers to enjoy freshly prepared, fully customizable, fried chicken, french fries and other menu items on demand, quickly, easily and without human intervention.

The announcement comes on the heels of Re-Up’s grand opening of its inaugural location in Melbourne, Florida, located just a mile and a half from Melbourne Orlando International Airport, at 601 South Babcock Street, Melbourne, Florida. According to U-Haul data, the Palm Bay-Melbourne market netted the largest number of movers in one-way U-Haul® equipment last year, dominating the US city growth trend. Re-Up currently has 9 open stores and more than 30 in the pipeline.

Nala Robotics’ AI-enabled virtual kitchens are equipped with advanced sensors, precision cooking mechanisms, and machine learning algorithms, allowing its robotic chefs to autonomously prepare a wide range of menu items with unparalleled consistency and efficiency. In addition to on-premises ordering via multi-modal kiosk, restaurants can create virtual storefronts for remote transactions through a website or online food ordering and delivery platform. The integration of The Wingman into Re-Up’s convenience stores will enable faster service, reduced wait times, and enhanced food quality, improving the overall customer experience.

Re-Up’s pillars consist of clean, safe, healthy, and modern; the ultimate elevated customer experience. Built on multigenerational retail expertise, Re-Up prioritizes exceptional customer service, on trend merchandising, and modern store layouts, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for every patron. Re-Up offers nutritional food options, free WiFi, and cafe seating.

“As the c-store for the new generation – offering clean and healthy alternatives to the traditional convenience retail experience, we are thrilled to partner with Nala Robotics,” said Michael Salafia, Founder and Managing Director of Re-Up. “By harnessing the power of AI, we are able to provide our customers with convenient, personalized, and safe shopping and dining experiences. We believe this groundbreaking concept will revolutionize the way people shop and fuel up.”

“Our expansion efforts at Re-Up are proceeding at an accelerated pace. We aim to procure 25-30 additional stores by the end of 2024 and more than 200 stores in the coming years,” said Narendra Manney, Co-Founder & President of Re-Up. “The integration of robotics kitchens stands as a pivotal strategy in our modernization initiative, enabling us to enhance operational efficiency and deliver seamless services while upholding unwavering quality standards around the clock.”

“Our agreement with Re-Up underscores both companies’ commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction and will deliver better outcomes for both operator and consumer,” said Ajay Sunkara, CEO of Nala Robotics. “The Wingman doesn’t get sick, can work around the clock and can cook any dish efficiently all the time, improving on quality and saving on labor costs. At the same time, customers get to choose from an assortment of great-tasting food items just the way they like it.”

ABOUT RE-UP

Meet Re-Up, the convenience store of the future. Re-Up is a gas station and convenience store retail operator, focused on elevating customer experience through the integration of AI-powered technology and design. Re-Up is elevating the way people re-fuel, re-charge, re-fill, re-up, answering a pent up demand for a modern, clean, and healthy convenience retail experience. With more than 30 stores in the pipeline, strategically positioned for accessibility and convenience across Florida, Mississippi and Louisiana, Re-Up is led by a dynamic team, contributing unique expertise in the sectors of retail operations, technology, and real estate. Learn more at https://reupfuel.com/.

ABOUT NALA ROBOTICS

Nala Robotics is an AI technology company disrupting the culinary industry with the introduction of The Wingman, Pizzaiola, Nala Chef, Bowl Bot and Sandwich Bot. Its fully automated, customizable robots use machine learning to cook infinite recipes replicated with exact precision anytime, anywhere. The company’s autonomous robotic solutions are ideal for multiple cuisines including American, Chinese, Indian and Thai. Based in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Nala Robotics has offices in California, India and Ukraine. For more information, visit https://nalarobotics.com/

Original Article: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240402720622/en/AI-Powered-Convenience-Store-Chain-Re-Up-to-Deploy-Autonomous-Kitchens

Filipino Women ‘Virtually Control’ the Local Economy Through Sari-Sari Stores, Study Finds

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This women’s month, a new study from Packworks, in partnership with Fourth Wall, has found that women essentially run the local economy in the Philippines.

According to Packworks’ business intelligence tool Sari IQ, 75 percent of sari-sari stores in the country are owned by women. Of the remaining 25 percent, 20 percent are run by men while ownership of the five percent remains unknown.

Unique to the Philippines, sari-sari stores can be found on almost every block. With the widely-accepted belief that Filipinos are, at the community level, a matriarchal society, it should come as no surprise that women own the majority of these family-run sari-sari stores. Their influence as the owners of these small retail shops has been primarily underrated, at least until now.

“The high percentage of sari-sari store ownership by women shows that Filipinas virtually control much of the local economy,” said Andres Montiel, Packworks’ Head of Data.

At the grassroots economy, women are in charge. With almost 70 percent of manufactured goods transacted in sari-sari stores, Filipino women hold significant sway in the local economy. However, there’s still work to be done to boost women’s labor in other industries and upskill female laborers for personal and economic growth.

“The primary reason for women’s domination of sari-sari stores lies in the very origin and nature of sari-sari stores themselves. Families set up sari-sari stores to augment the resources of the household,” explained Fourth Wall’s Research Director, John Brylle Bae. “Thus, sari-sari stores are always intertwined with the needs of the home. In the Filipino context, the role of the nanay [mother] is to manage the home, including addressing and managing the household’s needs.”

Due to the cultural influences of Spanish colonization and Western patriarchal culture, the role of women in Philippine society has drastically changed over the centuries, noted Bae. From religious and political leaders like babaylans and priestesses, women are now expected to be nurturers and caregivers—which is in itself a hot topic to debate. On the economic front, the role of women as the head of the household shouldn’t be underestimated, especially considering how much-untapped influence they have over the grassroots economy.

Original Article: https://www.esquiremag.ph/money/industry/filipino-women-local-economy-sari-sari-stores-a00304-20230327?utm_medium=Echobox-Esquire&utm_campaign=Echobox-Ownshare&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR0x8nusbMZpZXckrJU79-VhlXgiQPyiPTPij-N4BW4_MtJe5J9e4QSIwUk_aem_ASxMj1J9A4MIiS51dpfDVARjXPScp44fZiKOcMiikK_pdgU2T0euMmjC2YfJ6jtSfhg#Echobox=1709726534