Beauty, health retailer hits over 1K branches in PH

WATSONS Philippines, the health and beauty retail giant under the SM Group, ended 2024 with 1,166 branches nationwide, following the opening of 80 new stores. More than 50 of these new outlets are located outside Metro Manila, emphasizing Watsons’ commitment to expanding access to underserved regions. The brand also marked a milestone last year with the launch of its 8,000th store in Asia at the Mall of Asia, led by Dr.

Malina Ngai, Group chief executive officer of A.S. Watson Group.



“The Philippines has been selected for this momentous occasion because it’s one of the fastest-rising economies in Asia and a strategic market for AS Watson. This vibrant and highly potential market has a young demographic that increasingly focuses on health and beauty, aligning perfectly with Watsons’ expertise,” said Ngai. Since its establishment in 2002 through a joint venture between the SM Group and Hong Kong-based A.

S. Watson & Co. Ltd.

, Watsons Philippines has consistently expanded its presence. The brand now prioritizes community pharmacies to bring healthcare solutions closer to Filipino consumers. This strategic focus aligns with evolving consumer behavior.

A 2024 study by Bain & Company, titled “Asia-Pacific Front Line of Healthcare,” revealed that 85 percent of regional consumers prioritize healthcare maintenance, with 51 percent willing to spend more on health-related products and services. Jared de Guzman, customer director at Watsons, highlighted the importance of community pharmacies in the company’s growth strategy. “Watsons is not only expanding in malls but is also committed to establishing a strong presence in local neighborhoods,” de Guzman said.

“By the end of 2024, we had 400 community stores throughout the Philippines, ensuring accessibility and convenience for our customers.” Watsons began its community pharmacy initiative in 2015 with its first store in Pateros. Today, the brand operates in three formats: Watsons Pharmacy, with over 1,000 locations in various settings; SM Beauty in 76 SM Stores; and Look, a multi-brand outlet at SM Aura and SM Mall of Asia.

/ KOC.