Providing job opportunities tops Metro Gaisano's goals

CEBU, Philippines - A major player in the retail industry is set to build another retail establishment in one of the key cities in Cebu while aiming to generate employment opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the area.

Owned and operated by VICSAL Development Corporation, the Metro Department Store and Supermarket situated along Mantawe Road in Barangay Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City kicked off construction yesterday with Dakay Construction.

Metro Gaisano Retail Group Chief Operating Officer Eduardo Ponce said during the groundbreaking ceremonies yesterday that the “exciting store” intends to serve the residents in the city not only through a complete shopping experience but through the creation of livelihood and job opportunities.

“In a retail organization, there’s always that advantage to have the community to work with you. This is a store for the community but bigger than a neighborhood store,” he stated.

He added that the new store set in a “strategic” location is a hybrid and a compact version of a department store and supermarket offering the right products and services with the right amenities.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza, on the other hand, said that the soon-to-be-opened Metro store will serve as another landmark in the city, contributing to its socio-economic growth.

“It has always been the vision of Lapu-Lapu City to be the leading haven of tourism and investment. We take pride and we are grateful for being recognized to be included in its (Metro’s) expansion, turning the wheels of progress and sustainable development,” she said.

Expected to open by April of next year, the Metro Gaisano’s 13th store has a total area of 7,000 square meters including the leasing area.

Meanwhile, Ponce further revealed that there would be another three stores to be opened in Cebu within this year as part of the company’s expansion program.

He also noted that the 12th store located in Alabang Town Center, Muntinlupa City will be a full-scale supermarket and an anchor store in the area which will be set to open in August.

He cited that this has been part of the company’s vision to bring the “Cebu” store to Luzon area.

Other Metro stores include Metro Colon, Super Metro Mandaue, Metro Ayala Center, Metro Market Naga, and Metro Plaza in Toledo in Cebu; Metro Hi-per in Maasin, Leyte; Metro Legazpi in Bicol; Metro Lucena in Quezon; Metro Market! Market! in Taguig; Metro Marquee in Angeles, Pampanga; and Metro Market Binondo in Binondo, Manila.

Its retail offerings consist of grocery, apparel, jewelry, accessories, appliances, furniture, food outlets, and pharmacy. (FREEMAN)