Basking in its own share of ooohs and aaahs during the impressive affair, where the food preparations and the choice of wines are always a labor of love with a passion, were exquisite jade underliners from the personal collection of the hotels general manager Karl Hudson, which he acquired during his stint in China, together with beautiful European sterling silver. Jade napkin holders were given to those present at the end of an evening that will long be remembered.
"LoveEMall represents the affection we wish to have with all our visitors," says Rene Almendras, Cebu holdings president. "We have become more than just a shopping center. Ayala Center Cebu has become the lifestyle destination for the discriminating Cebuano consumer. And this holds true with our other guests from the neighboring provinces who always make our complex a must-stay over before returning to their cities and towns."
Shortly after the unveiling ceremonies, the 2003 Merchants Rewards Program was announced.
Loalde was the recipient of the overall Visual Merchandize Excellence Award while the Marketing Excellence Award was given to Sari Sari, for undertaking a successful marketing program that is innovative and has consistently supported the malls special events and activities throughout the year.
The Store Operations Excellence Awards recognized the efforts of establishments that strictly adhered to the operational and customer service standards of the Ayala Malls. The awardees included Lacoste, Oro China, Artwork, Marks & Spencer, and Levis.
Chosen as the Most Promising Retailers were Flame It and Isis, while the Values Special Award went to True Value Homemaker.
The Best Marketing Partners were Timezone, Ratsky, Bigbys Cafe, Fashion Avenue and M. Lhuillier.
The Store of the Year award was garnered by Levis, represented by Tess Albulario, for upholding the highest standard of business management and operations and for significantly contributing in sales, not only for their establishment, but for Ayala as well.