SSI grows foreign brands

MANILA, Philippines - The SSI Group, a leading specialty retailer, is bringing in more foreign brands into the Philippines to capitalize on the growing sophistication of the country’s young consumers.

In an interview, SSI Group president Anton Huang said the group is set to introduce new foreign brands within the year to add to the company’s existing portfolio of 115 brands.

“We’re in discussions with several brand owners. We’re hopeful to close partnerships within the year. We have ongoing discussions now,” he said.

But he noted it was preliminary to divulge the brands, simply hinting that some are in the fashion space.

“They’re not entirely Asean brands but brands that manufacture within the Asean region,” Huang said.

He expressed optimism that consumption spending in the Philippines would remain strong despite jitters in the region caused by investor concerns on China’s weakening economy.