The SM Store, the country’s leading department store chain was founded as a shoe store by Henry Sy, Sr., in October 1958 in downtown Manila. Mr. Sy, who is known as the visionary of Philippine retail because of his innovations in the industry, thought of establishing a chain of shoe stores with a store layout and merchandising concepts never before tried in the Philippines. The success of the shoe store led to its expansion as a full line store, and the first SM Department Store opened in downtown Manila in 1972. With its exciting merchandise mix, world class interiors, one stop shopping convenience, and service, SM has become part of the lives of many Filipinos. Today, it has 64 branches strategically located around Metro Manila and key cities around the country, as well as in China and has rebranded as The SM Store. Today, it continues to take the lead in store innovations as it expands in both urban and rural communities, bringing world class shopping through its new and newly renovated stores around the Philippines. Each store is laid out to deliver convenience, value and variety to its shoppers. Combining great design and great retail, this is SM’s response to the growing demand for more affordable but fashionable environments, as well as the company’s efforts to serve more shoppers. Design concepts, a global/local fusion of merchandise, premier service and innovative marketing programs come together to bring that shopping excitement. The SM Store’s services go beyond shopping. Shoppers can pay their bills, exchange foreign currency, gift wrapping services and enjoy the convenience of a Gift Registry in the store, all in one stop. Value-added services such as ATM Banking, ticketing, remittance and a shopper loyalty program are also made available. In response to the times, The SM Store now has SM Call to Deliver, and an online store ShopSM, and of course, the physical store – to better serve its customers and give them an omnichannel experience. This guarantees an exciting array of merchandise, secure payments, nationwide deliveries, and customer satisfaction with every transaction for a hassle-free shopping experience.
