Written by: Ruth L. Navarra
Watsons opened its 8,000th store in Asia at the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) on Nov. 7. The store represents a lot of things, including the hard work of its employees and the dedication of Watsons to serve the community.
(L-R): Danilo Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons Philippines, Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee SM Prime Holdings Inc., Dominic Lai, Chairman of AS Watson Group, Tessie Sy-Coson, Vice Chairperson SM Investments Corp., Dr. Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson Group, Elizabeth Sy, President SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., and Robert Sun, Regional Managing Director, H&B Asia & International Commercial Director of AS Watson Group, celebrate the opening of Watsons’ 8,000th store in Asia
“[When the] first two stores in SM Megamall and Podium opened, we could never have imagined how quickly we would grow,” said Danilo S. Chiong, Watsons Philippines’ managing director.
The first stores in the country opened in 2002. Twenty-two years and over 1,200 branches nationwide later, the Philippines is a key market, securing its presence in the retail chain’s 180-year legacy. Dr. Malina Ngai, global chief operating officer of A.S. Watsons Group, said the Philippines is the largest market in Asia. Watsons is the flagship health and beauty brand of A.S. Watson Group.
“It’s been a journey of expansion, innovation, and, most importantly, partnership. Our broad story in the Philippines would not have been possible without our strong, enduring relationship with the SM Group,” said Chiong. Over 1,100 of their branches are located in SM Malls.
Innovations
The 8,000th store is on the first floor of MOA Main Mall North. It reflects innovations that Watsons has implemented in its stores. At 900 sqm, it is one of largest Watsons stores in the country.
The Premium Beauty Area has a skin-analyzing machine that customers can use for free with assistance. The machine shows problem areas on the face and what needs to be attended to. At the end of the consult, it automatically recommends dermatologist-approved products that can address these issues.
The Natural by Watsons line recommends reusing bottles by refilling products at the Expanded Sustainability Zone. For the same volume, these products will come off as P100 cheaper than when buying a new bottle.
“Beauty should be good for us and the environment,” said Chiong. The section also features products with ethically sourced ingredients. There are guides on the shelves explaining what makes the options sustainable.
The Expanded Pharmacy has 3,500 essential items, including branded and generic medicines, vitamins, and supplements. There are free consultations and even an area for vaccinations. Self-checkout terminals are available, making purchasing easier. To ease people into the process, staff are trained to assist customers. Chiong said they wanted the store to have an international feel, but one that still caters to needs unique to Filipinos. Customers can also pick up their purchase in-store within 30 minutes through the Offline + Online (O+O) Strategy.
Giving back
Ngai said Watsons gives back to the community. She proudly stated that the “Give a Smile” movement helps children with cleft lips get free service.
“It’s a simple but life-changing surgery to give them a smile,” she said. Simple solutions to make shopping more comfortable can be found within the store. The shopping bags have printed phrases on them: “I’m okay to shop on my own” or “I’m okay to be assisted.” It is perfect for shoppers who prefer to do their exploration on their own.
“Watsons is the reason we could say, we’ve got it all. It is our honor and privilege to be part of this global company. I am grateful to bear witness to this journey and this meaningful partnership and look forward to a bigger milestone here,” said Tessie Sy-Coson, vice chair of SM Investments Corp. “I think we will celebrate the 10,000th store here.”
The last statement was met with cheers. Regine Velasquez and the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra added more joy to the occasion by performing during the store opening.
ADVT.
This article is brought to you by Watsons through Browne Communication.
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