Robinsons Galleria: More modern, more techie, more fashion forward

Build and they will come.

True? "Not anymore," says Nilo Mapa, general manager for Robinsons Malls. "Today, you build what people want and need, and they will come."

With so many new malls crowding our shopaholic consciousness all at the same time, consumers face a lot of exciting options, and have become sharper and more choosy. This is so true in the Ortigas area, where everything – from tiangge stuff to very world-class couture items – is now easily available.

However, people don’t go to malls just to shop. So very much in touch with its market, Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) is currently building a new look for its flagship mall Robinsons Galleria.

And it’s not just a cosmetic change to give Robinsons Galleria a modern-looking façade. "We are redeveloping the mall to make it doubly attractive and relaxing for our faithful shoppers, both young and old – students, office workers, foodies, fashionistas, techies, sports buffs and businessmen," explains Mapa.

Mapa adds that on working days, Robinsons Galleria is packed with the corporate set from the many offices and multinational establishments in the Ortigas area. On weekends, it assumes an altogether different personality as it becomes a family haven.

Construction began last month, and will be completed by the last quarter of 2006. Mapa says there will be a more exciting tenant mix, relocating shops in distinct clusters for the convenience of shoppers.

Taking a cue from its successful East Wing project, which took place three years ago, RLC is now developing its West Wing that faces the EDSA side. The West Wing will have a modern façade, more spacious hallways and corridors, plus new access points.

What we find so fantastic about Robinsons Galleria is that it is interconnected with two five-star hotels – Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Galleria Manila – and Galleria Regency, a sleek residential condo building. Tip: Try the buffet at 7 Corners coffee shop at Crowne Plaza. This is one buffet spread where all items are well-chosen.

The best news for kids at Robinsons Galleria is that Toys "R" Us is opening its first outlet in the Philippines at the fourth level, beside the mall’s kiddie amusement center and teen amusement center. "Take note," Mapa says, "you can never combine kids with teens in one amusement center."

The best news for techies is that the East Wing’s first level has been transformed into a "Techie’s Haven" where computer stores, Internet cafes and mobile service providers are now located. "We are also offering free WiFi access at Robinsons Galleria for those who want to surf or e-mail," adds Mapa.

The best news for fashionistas is that Robinsons Galleria is more "fashion-forward" – this, according to Mapa, is boss Robina Gokongwei-Pe’s favorite phrase which has become his favorite as well. Most popular are Topshop, Topman and Dorothy Perkins, all from the United Kingdom. Still another new brand is coming in soon but Mapa is tight-lipped about it, saying it should remain a "surprise" for fashionistas.

The best news for foodies is that popular Vietnamese resto Pho Hoa and Jack’s Loft will soon be joining Our Father’s Café, Subway, Dimsum & Dumplings, Ah Sin, Yoshinoya, Little Poon, Thai’s Kitchen and Bo’s Café in the East Wing’s first level. Our super favorites are Mangan (their pancit palabok and halo-halo still the best in town), Oody’s (really good, authentic Thai food), Mr. Choi’s Kitchen (a true crowd drawer) and Sticks (try Gilbert Pangilinan’s to-die-for Paco Salad!).

Covering over 7,000 square meters, West Wing will carry new food kiosks and pocket cafes integrated into areas where interactive exhibits and attractions can be found, says Mapa.

Interactive. We like that word. Okay, build more of these and we will come.