BENCH/ Express at One Ayala clinches Specialty Store of the Year - Philippines at Retail Asia Awards 2024

They revolutionise shopping for Metro Manila’s commuters.

Nestled in the heart of One Ayala Mall, BENCH/ Express has quickly become a cornerstone of convenience and style for the daily throng of over 30,000 commuters in Metro Manila. Since its inauguration in February 2024, this specialty store has not only fulfilled the essential needs of Filipino commuters but also achieved recognition, clinching the title of Specialty Store of the Year - Philippines at the esteemed Retail Asia Awards 2024.

Positioned strategically within Makati City's dynamic transit hub, BENCH/ Express presents a diverse assortment of apparel, personal care items, and cosmetics. This location was meticulously chosen to optimise accessibility for commuters rushing through their daily routines, making it an ideal stop for quick and easy shopping solutions.

The concept of BENCH/ Express was brought to life by Suyen Corporation, guided by the visionary insights of Mr Ben Chan, the chairman and CEO. Acknowledging that commuting is a pivotal aspect of daily life in the Philippines, Suyen Corporation designed BENCH/ Express to align perfectly with the lifestyle and needs of modern commuters.

“One Ayala stands as a landmark of urban living and top-tier retail experiences,” commented Mr Chan. “At BENCH/, our goal is to enhance the commuter’s daily journey by providing a selection of essential items that combine style with accessibility.”

Covering an expansive area of 249.11 square metres, the store is designed to facilitate easy navigation and accessibility, enabling customers to move freely and comfortably amongst the wide selection of products. From essential clothing like basic t-shirts and polo shirts to personal care and cosmetic products, BENCH/ Express offers a curated selection designed to meet every commuter's needs.

The rapid ascent of BENCH/ Express to become a preferred shopping destination speaks volumes about its success. It stands out for its strategic location within a transit-oriented development, which not only enhances brand visibility but also maximises convenience for its core clientele of commuters and nearby call centre employees.

The assortment of products at BENCH/ Express is specifically tailored to cater to the immediate needs of its customers, increasing customer satisfaction and fostering loyalty by providing a comprehensive shopping experience. Moreover, the thoughtful store design and layout create an engaging and welcoming atmosphere for shoppers, promoting longer stays and frequent visits, which in turn contributes to increased sales and a stronger connection with the brand.

As BENCH/ Express continues to be an integral part of the daily commute for thousands, it transcends its role as a retail space; it becomes a pivotal part of urban life in Metro Manila, demonstrating that convenience and quality can indeed be seamlessly integrated.

The Retail Asia Awards is presented by Retail Asia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2025 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional products or initiatives in the Retail industry, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].