BIZ BUZZ: Alfamart opens up to franchising
Competition in the Philippine retail scene is heating up, and all players are determined to win the game.
This time, the SM Group is upping the game of its minimart chain, Alfamart Philippines.
The retail giant on Wednesday announced the launch of Alfamart’s franchising program, thus opening doors for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to partake of this business.
The first two franchise-owned stores sprouted in Laguna province, with a long-time Alfamart lessor and partner at the helm.
“This reflects the SM Group’s commitment to inclusive growth and entrepreneurship,” Alfamart Philippines chief operating officer Harvey Ong said.
“By allowing tenants to evolve into franchisees, Alfamart is enabling MSMEs to scale alongside its own expansion, strengthening local communities and livelihoods,” Ong added.
This comes as a huge opportunity now for Alfamart to grow exponentially, especially with the SM Group’s competitors already bringing in foreign brands to attract more customers and potential entrepreneurs.
For one, Ayala Corp. is already in the process of bringing back Makro stores in the country, while also debuting Spinneys.
Budget chains Dali and O’ Save (of Robinsons) are also fast gaining ground.
The expansion moves are getting faster and faster every day, so it’s no surprise that SM is also gearing up.
