The comeback will be led by Indonesian retail giant PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk. (MAP), M&S’ franchise partner in Indonesia and Vietnam for more than 26 years, with the first Philippine store set to open at Glorietta in Makati.
The move signals that M&S sees enough growth potential in the Philippine consumer market to quickly re-enter despite SSI Group’s decision to cease operations of the brand last May.
MAP is one of Southeast Asia’s largest retailers, operating more than 4,000 stores across Indonesia and managing over 150 brands including Zara, Sephora, Foot Locker, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme and Marks & Spencer.
Management’s view
“We know there is strong demand for the M&S brand in the Philippines, and we’re excited to reopen our stores and online channels later this year,” Mark Lemming, managing director of M&S International, said in a statement posted on the company’s website.
“Taking over the M&S business in the Philippines marks an important milestone for MAP Fashion and reflects our commitment to growing iconic global brands across Southeast Asia,” said Sameer Prasad, chief executive of MAP Fashion.
“The Philippines is an exciting and fast-growing market, and Manila is the ideal place to begin this next chapter for M&S. With its strong heritage, trusted quality, and timeless appeal, M&S continues to resonate with consumers across generations,” he added.
Quick comeback
SSI, controlled by the Tantoco family, earlier said changing consumer preferences and shopping habits prompted it to wind down the business after operating M&S in the Philippines since 1984.
Rather than retreat from the market, M&S moved quickly to appoint a new operator, underscoring the importance of the Philippines in its Southeast Asian expansion plans.
MAP has also operated M&S stores in Indonesia and Vietnam for more than two decades, making the Philippines the latest addition to its growing regional footprint.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
