Dr. Martens returns to PH
Hearts were broken when, in December 2022, Dr. Martens announced that it was closing all its stores in the Philippines.
For over a year, Filipino fans of the brand had to resort to buying their “Docs”—popular boots, Oxfords, sandals and more—from abroad.
But on July 30, there was a glimmer of hope. After a long silence, the @drmartensph Instagram account posted two photos of the brand’s iconic 1460 boots. “Are you back??” we quickly replied.
We weren’t the only ones. The account kept getting the same comments:
“Bring it back to the Philippines!”
“Balik na kayo!”
“Please be back!”
“Reopen please!”
Yesterday, Dr. Martens Philippines did just that—it opened its first new store on the second level of Robinsons Manila. MAP Active Philippines is now the brand’s distributor in the country.
Strong demand
“Dr. Martens is back because of popular—and very strong—demand. We knew a lot of people were disappointed when the brand announced its closure in the country a few years back,” said Christine Baluyut, MAP Active Philippines’ brand manager for fashion footwear.
“The love for the brand will always be there. After we published a couple of posts on our social channels, that statement is a definite fact—Filipino customers still love and want a pair of Dr. Martens.”
The store in Robinsons Manila is just the start. There are plans to expand to other locations across the country.
“As a customer myself, I know how important it is to have access to the brands we love, and we want to make sure Dr. Martens is available to as many people as possible,” said Baluyut.
There’s no online store just yet, as they are focusing on bringing the Dr. Martens experience to more brick and mortar stores. “We believe there’s something uniquely special about trying on a pair in person and finding the perfect fit.”
Latest releases
The classics and staples will be available in store, like the 1460 boots and 1461 shoes, but they’re also bringing in the latest releases. They’re introducing the brand’s Ambassador line which features the iconic designs in soft and supple Ambassador leather—promising comfort from the get go, no need for breaking in.
You can also get the full range of shoe care products at the store.
“We want to make sure our customers have everything to keep their shoes and boots looking great and lasting for years to come,” said Baluyut.
There are also plans to bring in the kids’ collection plus a selection of accessories. You might also be able to cop future collaborations, something Dr. Martens has also become known for, in the store.
For decades now, Dr. Martens has been associated with individuality, authenticity and self-expression, something generation after generation has embraced.
Baluyut said, “Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the brand, you’ll find something that speaks to your style and spirit. The brand is here to make a mark and a statement, and we’re ecstatic to be doing it with Filipino fans who’ve been with Dr. Martens through thick and thin.”
