Japanese watch company opens Cebu concept shop

CEBU, Philippines - Japanese watch company Citizen opened its first concept shop in Cebu at the SM Cebu-Northwing.

Naoto Hosogaya, Citizen Watches (H.K.) Ltd. managing director said that in the last few years, the Philippines has become one of the more important markets for Citizen in Asia due to its vigor in terms of performance.

Located just beside The Watch Store, the Citizen shop is the second dedicated brand store in the Philippines, featuring its eco-drive technology, and the brand's over 200 product models.

Hosogaya said the Philippines is the second fastest growing market for Citizen in Asia, next to Taiwan. The growing market sophistication and economic strength of the Philippines are just few of the many reasons behind Citizen's sustaining leadership in the country's timepiece market.

Globally, Hosogaya said the brand operated by Citizen Watch Corporation is actually experiencing a sluggish performance, but have been offset by its upbeat growth in the Philippines and in other Asian countries.

  "We are looking for every chance to expand here in the Philippines. Because of your good economy, more people can afford to buy decent and sophisticated things," said Hosogaya on the sidelines of the formal opening of the Cebu Citizen store.

In fact, this year Citizen aims to open three more concept stores in the Philippines, depending on the availability of good retail location.

        Citizen highlights its eco-drive technology, which revolutionizes timepieces in recent times.

Citizen's eco-drive technology converts any light source into energy, and stores the energy in a rechargeable lithium ion power cell, which keeps the watches running for six months or more on full charge.

Since its founding in 1930, Citizen has established itself as one of the leading brands in creating watches that foster excellence and creativity. — (FREEMAN)