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Chinese Lifestyle Retail Brand KKV eyes 200 Stores in the Philippines

Posted on May 5, 2025May 5, 2025 by admin

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

Posted on April 23, 2025May 5, 2025 by admin

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

Posted on April 15, 2025 by admin

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

Posted on February 25, 2025February 25, 2025 by admin

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

Posted on January 27, 2025January 27, 2025 by admin

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/

Little Farms: Singapore’s Fresh & Ethical Urban Grocer in Holland Village

Posted on January 22, 2025January 28, 2025 by admin

Our final stop for our Singapore retail store visit is Little Farms in Holland Village, home to their first-ever Urban Concept Grocer & Restaurant. This two-story space perfectly blends a thoughtfully curated grocery on the ground floor with Little Farms Table, a cozy café upstairs offering handcrafted dishes made from scratch—free from MSG, artificial flavorings, colorings, or preservatives.

Why Little Farms Stands Out

Little Farms is Singapore’s friendly neighborhood market, dedicated to providing fresh, all-natural, and organic groceries sourced directly from trusted farmers and artisans around the world. Their “Freshness Guaranteed” promise ensures that if you’re unhappy with the freshness or quality of any purchase, they’ll gladly provide a refund or replacement.

Here’s what makes Little Farms special:

Cheese & Deli Counter: Discover varieties of cheese and premium charcuterie selections, offering something for every palate.
Fresh Produce & Ethical Sourcing: Their fresh fruits and vegetables are the stars of the store, complemented by a butchery that exclusively features ethically raised, regeneratively farmed meats. They also support sustainability with their Im-Perfect Produce section, where slightly blemished but perfectly edible produce is sold at discounted prices.
Banned Ingredient List: Little Farms is deeply committed to transparency and health, enforcing a strict Banned Ingredient List that excludes over 200 potentially harmful chemicals, preservatives, artificial flavors, colors, and additives. Shopping here means you can trust every ingredient to be safe and natural.
Ready-to-Eat Options & Bakery: For those on the go, Little Farms offers a selection of freshly baked bread and wholesome ready-to-eat meals, prepared with the same high standards of quality and care.
Little Farms Table: On the second floor, enjoy an all-day dining menu featuring delicious dishes crafted from fresh, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot to relax with friends or family, and private rooms are available for special occasions.
Wine Selection: A carefully curated range of wines awaits, making it easy to pair the perfect bottle with your groceries or meal.

Little Farms is all about making healthy living accessible, offering a mindful shopping and dining experience that’s as delicious as it is ethical. This grocery is a must-visit destination for fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully sourced food!

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Vietnam’s Cong Caphe to debut in the Philippines

Posted on January 13, 2025January 27, 2025 by admin

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/

FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay: A Therapeutic and Future-Forward Supermarket Experience

Posted on January 9, 2025January 28, 2025 by admin

FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay offers so much more! Imagine a supermarket with a cozy bar nestled, a dining area in the middle of the supermarket, and a workshop area. This isn’t just shopping—it’s an experience that redefines retail therapy, taking it to an entirely new level.

FairPrice Finest is one of the premium retail formats under NTUC FairPrice Co-operative Ltd, Singapore’s largest retailer. Its portfolio includes FairPrice Supermarkets, FairPrice Finest, FairPrice Xtra, FairPrice Xpress, and Cheers convenience stores.

This 14,000-square-foot warehouse-inspired outlet at Clarke Quay, marks the 40th FairPrice Finest store in Singapore.

Far beyond the conventional supermarket, FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay transforms errands into opportunities for culinary discovery, social connection, and even recreation. Whether you’re sipping a signature cocktail at the bar, savoring a gourmet meal, or actively listening at a workshop, this unique destination is where shopping, dining, and entertainment meet seamlessly.

Singapore’s Love for Fresh and Local

Singaporean supermarkets are celebrated for their devotion to fresh produce, sushi, and delicatessen delights. FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay elevates this tradition with thoughtfully curated selections and a deep commitment to supporting local suppliers.

The Grocer Food Hall

At the heart of the store is the Grocer Food Hall, where different food kiosks serve a variety of cuisines. A standout feature? The “You Pick, We Cook” service. Pay for your seafood/beef and cooking fee and let them know how you would want it cooked, and next enjoy your food.

Comfortable seating areas invite you to enjoy your meals in a relaxed and vibrant setting—perfect for casual meetups or a quick break from shopping.

The Grocer Bar

Looking to unwind? Head to the Grocer Bar, it’s the ideal spot to relax and take in the energy of Clarke Quay.

Local Collaboration and Sustainability

FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay takes pride in its collaborations with local businesses. Highlights include a curated selection of fresh produce from Singaporean farmers. By celebrating local, the store underscores its commitment to community and sustainability.

If you come to Singapore, this place is a must visit and enjoy your own gourmet journey at FairPrice Finest Clarke Quay, where the joy of shopping meets the art of living.

Stay tuned for more highlights from our Singapore retail journey as we continue to explore some of the city’s most inspiring retail experiences.

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Bread Ahead Expands to the Philippines Through Partnership with SFRI

Posted on January 6, 2025January 28, 2025 by admin

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/

CS Fresh Supermarket: Fresh Produce, Gourmet Finds, and Convenience

Posted on December 5, 2024January 28, 2025 by admin

CS Fresh Supermarket truly lives up to its name—everything is genuinely fresh, from fruits and vegetables to the delicatessen, meat, and seafood sections.

Fruits and vegetable area

Fresh butchery and meat area

Fresh seafood

CS Fresh by Cold Storage is an upscale supermarket spanning over 2,700 sqm at Basement 1 of Great World. It’s a haven for gourmet enthusiasts, featuring bespoke butchery services, a world-class selection of beer, wine, and spirits, a fresh bakery, fresh sushi, and Singapore’s widest range of organic produce.

Wine, beer and spirits

Fresh sushi and fresh bakery

Delicatessen and fresh produce area

You will love this store from the moment you step in. Fresh flowers greet you at the entrance, accompanied by vibrant displays of colorful fruits and vegetables.

For added convenience, the “meals-to-go” section offers ready-to-eat options for those on the go. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the Tanamera Indonesia coffee bar, where you can enjoy premium coffee, refreshing drinks, and delicious food while shopping.

Kitchen on the go area

Tanamera coffee shop

CSFresh also prioritizes customer convenience with features such as free delivery for minimum orders, clear signage guiding you to counters, and self-checkout stations—an innovation worth considering in the Philippines to reduce long supermarket lines.

One more thing we like about this store is their e-waste collection bins, encouraging customers to recycle and be rewarded. You can recycle household batteries and bulbs here. Additionally, they have a Foodbank at the entrance, where customers can drop off food donations to support vulnerable families during challenging times.

Self check-out | free home delivery signage | recycle bin | Foodbank

The ambiance, look, and feel of this store make shopping a delightful experience. It’s a place you’ll not only shop at but also enjoy visiting time and again.

Stay tuned for more highlights from our Singapore retail journey as we continue to explore some of the city’s most inspiring retail experiences.

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