The retail sector is gaining pace, but has adapted to the new normal; according to Karlu Tan Say, chief operating officer of Eton Properties.
TanSay said from the usual big cuts of approximately 144 square meters (sq.m.), retailers are now shifting to kiosks or smaller units that range from about 32 to 59 sq.m.
“Most commercial tenants prefer units with smaller cuts to complement their e-commerce strategies and save on operational costs,” she said.
“With the retail sector as one of the hardest hit in this ongoing pandemic, we’re pleased to see this boost in market confidence as we enter the second half of 2021,” she added.
This month. Eton for example recorded three new physical stores that have opened and nine retail stores scheduled to launch in the coming months in its Eton Centris property in Quezon City.
According Charlie Carlos, Eton Properties executive vice presiden, the development has been attracting micro retailers owing to its courtyard architectural design that features wide open space layouts and strict health and safety standards in place.
“Eton Properties supports the business needs of SMEs (small and medium enterprise) in the new normal to help the economy recover faster from the effects of the pandemic. We make sure that we offer flexible and friendly lease and payment terms to help business owners gain back footing in this new business environment,” said Carlos.
Among the new commercial stores that have opened in Eton Centris are Brother’s Burger at Centris Cyberpod 3, Chizmozza and Glory’s Empanada, which are both located in Centris Station. Scheduled to also open in Centris Station is Bella Moda, while the following will launch branches at Centris Walk within the next two months: Coco Fresh Tea and Juice, Glimpse, Nicatto Health Dynamics Corporation Health Clinic, Dragon’s Nest Cafe, Dragon’s Nest Restaurant, Empanada Nation, Jing Jing’s Balut, and Carinderia Hits.
Eton Properties currently has approximately 45,000 sq.m. of leasable retail space. In the coming months, more retail stores are slated to open in Eton Centris and in other Eton commercial properties in Makati and Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
