Merrick Anthony Siao: New Kid on the Block

After obtaining a degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of San Carlos, 23-year old Merrick Anthony Siao went literally straight to work, sans the party or any celebratory rite any graduate would usually have.

"The day of my graduation was also the opening date of the spa,"shared Merrick. "While others had parties thrown by their parents, I was given a spa to manage. No time to party. In the morning was my graduation; (in the) afternoon, opening of the spa."

Belonging to a business-minded Chinese family, this young seemingly shy bachelor has proven to have a foresight of a keen businessman. When he could have opted for a new car or a Rolex watch, he chose to hold off the juvenile materialism in favor a sound investment by taking part in the world's next multi-billion industry- the health and wellness industry.

"My father thought of venturing into the spa business although none of us had any idea of running it. After graduation, he gave me the responsibility of managing one," pointed out Siao.

It would have been a daunting task for the then 20-year old fresh graduate. But armed with his college degree, experience from their family retail business coupled with instinct and dedication, he set out to do the task with great fervor. "Prayer is also very important," Merrick shared. He always makes it a point to make his Wednesday and Sunday Masses a part of his ritual.

The formula seems to work for the determined gentleman because from one branch in Cebu City, Grand Royal Spa has grown to have 8 branches in Luzon and Visayas-in a span of two years!

"I did not expect the fast expansion, but I planned it." The young entrepreneur said, referring to his overwhelming success. A lot of hard work and mistakes were made before he finally learned the ropes in running a spa business.

"I made many mistakes and learned from them. I still have many things to learn. I relied on myself but I always asked for advice from people around me." He gives importance to the advice of his parents and other people he respects.

" They are more experienced in life and in business, so it is important to learn from them," he stressed.

Asked if being young was a liability in running a business, this goal-oriented chinito replies with a casual shrug: "People sometimes don't take me seriously since I tend to have a casual and fun-loving personality." But he emphasizes the importance of separating his entrepreneurial life from his laid-back lifestyle. "I may be a very kulit and child-like person but in business I am very focused and driven."

Merrick Siao refuses to consider himself as successful. "I still have many things to learn and go through," he humbly admitted. Ten years from now, though he plans to make his spa a very established name in the industry, he plans to venture into another business and have a family of his own.

For now, his advice to fellow young entrepreneurs: Work, work, work. Never be complacent. Always aim higher and remember to give back to the people around you (the) blessings you have received.

Quite profound words coming from someone who considers himself a neophyte in the business tycoons' world.