To stay relevant, PH mall chain evolves with the times

The term “malling” has been in use since the late 1970s and meant just that — a trip to the mall to hang out with friends, shop for groceries, have a meal or catch a movie. For decades, it was a favorite pastime of many, but consumers’ needs have changed and continue evolving. “We are seeing that Filipinos care more about experiences than just buying things,” said Steven Tan, president of SM Supermalls, at a media briefing held Sept. 10. To meet that shift in demand, the country’s largest mall chain has been going beyond expanding its footprint by providing spaces and serving as a venue for Filipinos to explore their varied interests. That evolution is reflected in the way SM Supermalls is reshaping its spaces and programming to respond to the activities and experiences that matter most to consumers today. Among the clearest indications of that shift is the growing interest in wellness and social activities, which malls are increasingly incorporating into their spaces and events. Over 40,000 runners participated in the Galaxy Manila Marathon and SM2SM Cebu events this year. “The numbers we’re seeing for active lifestyle are really amazing,” Tan said, adding that wellness is now part of people’s daily routines. “We...