Puregold aims to grow faster than local economy
Grocery chain operator Puregold Price Club Inc. plans to open 30 new Puregold stores in 2026 as it sets aside P8.8 billion in capital expenditures (capex) to support growth amid a challenging macroeconomic backdrop.
The tycoon Lucio Co-led retailer is targeting to grow revenues by 5 percent to 7 percent this year, potentially outpacing a domestic economy grappling with fallout from an infrastructure corruption probe and Middle East war.
Puregold intends to support its revenue growth goal, which is faster than the sub 5-percent economic growth seen by many institutions for the Philippines this year, by its store expansion, supply chain improvements and customer-focused initiatives.
Based on a briefing paper presented to investors, the company said around P2.2 billion of the capex budget would fund the rollout of 30 Puregold stores and 30 Puremart outlets, reinforcing its push into more provincial markets.
Puregold is targeting organic store expansion of 8 percent to 10 percent, particularly in second- to fourth-class municipalities, as it seeks to capture growing consumption outside major urban centers.
Another P2.8 billion is earmarked for the expansion of its membership shopping chain, including three S&R warehouse clubs and 10 S&R quick service restaurants.
The company also allocated P800 million for logistics investments to strengthen its supply chain, alongside P3 billion for maintenance capex, solar projects and information technology upgrades.
These investments support Puregold’s broader strategy of expanding its store network, improving operational efficiency and enhancing customer reach across multiple income segments.
It is also investing in initiatives such as localized assortment, pricing strategies and wholesale programs to boost customer loyalty and basket size.
The expansion underscores Puregold’s strategy to strengthen its position as a key proxy for Philippine consumption, anchored on a growing middle class and sustained retail demand.
As of end-2025, Puregold had a total of 784 stores nationwide across various formats, including hypermarkets, supermarkets, Puremart convenience store outlets and S&R membership warehouses.
The company continues to benefit from strong consumer demand, with consolidated net sales rising 10.6 percent to P242.45 billion in 2025.
Net income after tax climbed 8.8 percent to P11.34 billion, while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization increased 13.9 percent, reflecting improved operating performance amid higher foot traffic and consumption.
Puregold said growth was driven by both its core stores and S&R segment, which together capture a broad range of consumers from low-income households to higher-income members.
