The British have really invaded the Philippine retail scene. We now think British when we shop. I witnessed this recently at the British Embassy’s “Shopping is GREAT: Fashion Show” at the Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall, where 34 iconic British brands participated and showcased the latest trends.
The “GREAT Campaign” aims to strengthen the relationship between the British and Filipinos, and the theme revolved around the idea that British brands are versatile and accessible — anyone can wear and enjoy them. The garments that were featured were inspired by fashion on the streets, from maternal wear, to swimwear; the fashion featured was truly for everybody.
On the ramp were the latest from Clarks, Cath Kidston, Alfred Dunhill, Berghaus, Burton, ELC (Early Learning Centre), F&F, Debenhams, Dune London, Kurt Geiger, Lee Cooper, Lonsdale, Lush, Lyle and Scott, John Lewis, Hamleys, Hackett, Marks & Spencer, Mamas & Papas, Mini, Mitre, Mothercase, Pepe Jeans, River Island, Radleys, Reiss, Sanders, Savile Row, Speedo, Superdry, The Body Shop, TM Lewin, Toni and Guy, and Vision Express.
Having the fashion show in the middle of the mall surrounded by British brands with Christmas decorations all around really set the mood for holiday shopping. Some of the models who walked down the catwalk were British Embassy diplomats and officers such as Niguel Bound, deputy ambassador; Thomas Phipps, second secretary Political & Security; and Tony Moore, UK visas and immigration regional manager for Asia Pacific.
All of these brands are part of the “Shopping is GREAT” campaign, in which through the “GREAT British Shopping Raffle,” a total of 37 shoppers will get very British of prizes. The grand prize is a trip to London for two via Etihad Airways, with a four-night hotel accommodation, and £500 pocket money from HSBC. Britrail passes from Baron Travel, a visit to Bicester Village designer outlets, match tickets at Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, and luxe tickets to London Fashion Weekend in February 2016 are also included in the prize package.
Other premium prizes include a shopping spree worth P50,000 at Marks & Spencer, a P25,000-worth giveaway from MINI Lifestyle, and over P600,000 worth of shopping vouchers. When purchasing more then P2,000 worth of goods, you get a raffle ticket from the participating brands. The promo period runs until Dec. 30, 2015.