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MANILA, Philippines — You probably know that Henry Sy started SM as a shoe store, but their full history has even humbler beginnings.
The business magnate, now the Philippines’ richest man, was born to a poor family. His determination to make it big stemmed from a dream of a better life for his loved ones.
The SM Group traces its beginnings to a sari-sari store. In 1958, Henry Sy opened the first Shoemart in Carriedo, followed by a department store in 1972. SM North EDSA, the first SM Supermall, opened in 1985.
Several decades later, the SM Group operates 70 malls in the Philippines, with a daily shopper count of 3.5 million. They also have businesses outside the retail industry, such as real estate and banking.
From a single store to several locations nationwide, SM is now a part of most Filipinos’ daily lives — whether it’s buying school supplies, going out to lunch with officemates, or bonding with the whole family on Sundays.
Last May 21, SM celebrated their 60th anniversary with a launch party at the SM Mall of Asia Atrium. Celebrities, partners, and stakeholders attended the event.
In her opening remarks, Tessie Sy-Coson, Vice Chair of SM Investments Corporation, shared how her father instilled the value of hard work to the whole family.
“My father… he was very demanding. It was always… work, work, work. He trained us to work as professionals,” she said.
She added that they’re looking forward to the journey ahead. “Allow us to be nostalgic, but it is not the history we’re celebrating today. We’re celebrating our future. We’re ready and excited for what’s in store.”
On May 25 to 27, SM Megamall also hosted a Sweet 60 Weekend Party. In partnership with Boysen, Fruits In Ice Cream, The Dessert Museum, and The Lost Bread, they treated shoppers to an Instagram-worthy wonderland of sweet treats, fun deals, and visual delights.
A relaunch of SM’s “We’ve Got It All Jingle” was sung by Ramonne Rodriguez of The Voice. SM Woman Divas Frenchie Dy, Rada, and Bituin Escalante; SM Little Stars Annastacia Penny; and the NU Pep Squad also performed on stage.
Until October, mall-goers can expect promos and discounts from their favorite SM malls. — Rappler.com
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