SM Investments Corp. said unit Watsons Philippines closed 2024 with 1,166 stores.
In 2024, Watsons Philippines opened 80 stores with more than 50 of these outside Metro Manila, SM Investments said in a statement yesterday.
The local Watsons is a joint venture between the SM Group and Hong Kong-based A.S. Watson & Co. Ltd., started in 2002.
Watsons opened its 8,000th store in Asia at the Mall of Asia last year, SM Investments said.
“Last year’s new store openings include key cities and municipalities in Visayas and Mindanao, reflecting Watsons’ commitment to reaching communities in need,” it added.
“By the end of 2024, we have 400 community stores throughout the Philippines, ensuring accessibility and convenience for our customers,” said Jared de Guzman, Watsons customer director
The brand operates in three formats — Watsons Pharmacy, with more than 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.