Alfamart Philippines, the minimart chain of the SM Group, has commenced its franchising program to provide micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) the opportunity to grow alongside its nationwide expansion.
Alfamart’s pilot started in Laguna with two franchise-owned stores.
Harvey Ong, chief operating officer of Alfamart Philippines, said the decision to open the business for franchising reflects the SM Group’s commitment to inclusive growth and entrepreneurship.
‘By allowing tenants to evolve into franchisees, Alfamart is enabling MSMEs to scale alongside its own expansion, strengthening local communities and livelihoods,’ Ong said.
Alfamart has expanded to 2,337 stores nationwide as of end-September.
The SM Group earlier said it is planning to add at least 200 new Alfamart stores in Luzon this year.
Part of SM’s retail food business, Alfamart blends the convenience of a neighborhood store with the breadth of a supermarket.
SM said such format is gaining strong traction across Southeast Asia, particularly among families and communities that value accessibility and affordability.
Alfamart Philippines is a joint venture between SM and Alfamart, one of the leading retailers with more than 21,000 mini-marts in Indonesia.
Alfamart inaugurated its first store in the country in June 2014.
The minimart chain offers a wide assortment of products catering to daily needs including a selection of basic groceries, SM Bonus products, fresh and frozen goods, snacks and personal care items at reasonable prices.
Alfamart has successfully expanded across 11 provinces, including Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon, Rizal, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pangasinan and Zambales. It also has presence in 15 cities in Metro Manila.