MANILA, AUGUST 12, 2013 – The Philippine Retailers Association held a gathering of Filipino entrepreneurs at the 22nd National Retail Conference and Stores Asia Expo last August 7 to 8 at SMX Convention organized.
The two-day event offered new ideas, studies and inspirational talks from local and international speakers . The National Retail Conference Expo (NRCE) was an avenue for businessmen to gather tips on improving existing operations, networking opportunities with retailers and other business partners. “NRCE brings together small and large scale retailers to listen to latest trends,” added Atty. Paul Santos, NRCE overall chairman and president of Picture City.
Thailand’s retailer Busaba Chirathivat was invited as a keynote speaker. She is the senior vice president of Central Retail Corporation that covers department stores like Central, Robinson, Zen and many more.
The conference also underscored the importance of branding. Interbrand brand strategy director Jonathan Berntein was quick to point out:, “Brand is not a tagline, advertising, it is a series of coordinated activities inside the organization. Role of the brand is a measurement that the brand influences consumer’s choice.”
Laugh with God Today! author Michael Angelo Lobrin directed the attention of the attendees to the people. “The greatest asset are not the products, it is the people. You must understand that you should contribute to a larger perspective of life.”
Senator Bam Aquino encouraged having a larger economic perspective. “You are all responsible in creating jobs. When you open a new retail brand, you don’t just open jobs but also local suppliers. Inclusive growth needs to go through business. We need to create jobs and business.”
Rustan Supercenters president Bienvenido “Donnie” Tantoco III offered wisdom on managing a business during stable and difficult times. "Confront realities early and swiftly. Do not ignore bad news and red flags. We will preserve jobs in bad times. We will create jobs in good times. Retail is reciprocal.”
Global Retail Industry executive for Growth Markets of IBM Sridhar Hari explained, “Retailers need to take a customer-centric approach to all their functions – buy, market, sell and service. Consumers demand personalized interactive timely service no matter what the context is. Smarter consumers are more informed, enabled and demanding-they are empowered."
