Together with partner brands like Sanicare, Royal Breadhaus, and Under the Sea, it is leading the push for responsible community growth.
“At SM, our goal is to be a catalyst for responsible development in the communities we serve. We are continually finding ways to be more sustainable in our operations and bring our partners along on this journey,” says Jojo Tagbo, SM Supermarket President.
Sanicare: Sustainable hygiene products
Sanicare, founded by Renato Sio in 1996, offers chemical-free hygiene products.
It has been an SM supplier since 2000 and focuses on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials.
Sanicare’s products include oxo-biodegradable trash bags and starch-based cutlery.
The company also supports tree planting and employs more than 500 people, reflecting its commitment to both environmental and social responsibility.
The Royal Breadhaus story
Founded by Emil and Vivian Sison in 1985 in Davao, Royal Breadhaus has grown from a small shop to a key player in the industry.
The company now offers more than 300 products across SM malls and Savemore stores in Mindanao.
Their sustainability efforts include solar-powered plants, reducing energy use by 40 percent, and an Environmental Monitoring Program.
Royal Breadhaus also supports local farmers by sourcing ingredients like sugar and eggs locally. Beyond business, they give back by supporting an orphanage and fostering entrepreneurship through baking training.
“We recycle and upcycle waste, repurposing food scraps into fertilizers and fish feed for local ecosystems like the Samal Island fish sanctuary. This initiative reflects our proactive approach to minimizing environmental impact,” Sison said.
Under the Sea’s haul
Under the Sea, based in Cagayan de Oro, has grown from a local supplier to a key seafood partner for SM Supermarkets. Founded over 20 years ago by Christine Biongcog, the company focuses on sustainable fishing practices.
“Working closely with the government allows us to stay informed about the latest advancements in sustainable fishing practices, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing yield,” Biongcog said.
The company collaborates with government agencies to implement innovations like Norwegian fish cages for raising tilapia and bangus.
Biongcog personally oversees fishing practices to ensure responsible methods and protect marine ecosystems. This hands-on approach ensures high-quality seafood while minimizing environmental impact.