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Philippine Mall Titan Quickens Shift to China-Style Mixed Retail
- Head of malls says SM is accelerating its e-commerce efforts
- Company needs to be present ‘in all channels,’ Tan says
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SM Investments Corp., the owner of the Philippines’ largest mall operator, is speeding up efforts to develop “omni-channel” options for shoppers as people shift to a mix of online and in-store purchases amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The group is tapping personal shoppers, ramping up delivery and pick-up services, and boosting its online presence, said Steven Tan, president of SM Prime’s mall unit. Last month, the group started operating a virtual mall for Manila residents, which it plans to roll out nationwide soon, he said.
“You have to be present in all channels,” Tan, 51, said in a virtual interview on Friday. “Retail is all about listening to your customers and moving so fast,” said Tan.