A new era in grocery shopping is coming to Metro Manila. Twelve stores, representing the arrival of UAE-based supermarket chain Spinneys, are slated to open beginning in the final quarter of the year, promising a dramatically different experience for local shoppers.
The partnership between Ayala Corporation and Spinneys isn’t simply about adding another supermarket; it’s about elevating the entire concept of grocery retail. Mariana Zobel de Ayala described Spinneys as a “valuable addition,” emphasizing that modern premium grocery shopping transcends merely stocking shelves – it’s about carefully selected products, exceptional service, and the thrill of discovering something new.
Spinneys, owned by the expansive Al Seer Group, boasts a significant international presence with holdings spanning food, retail, hospitality, and more across over twenty nations. This expansion into the Philippines marks the first time the brand has ventured outside the Gulf region, signaling a bold move and a strong belief in the local market.
The initial locations – Ayala Malls U.P. Town Center in Quezon City and San Antonio Plaza Arcade in Makati City – have been strategically chosen as anchor tenants. These stores are designed to be more than just places to buy groceries; they’re intended to be destinations within the Ayala Malls developments.
Paul Birkett, Chief Operating Officer of Ayala Malls, highlighted the globally recognized quality of Spinneys, drawing on his personal experience in Dubai. He envisions bringing that “best-in-class model” to the Philippines, offering customers access to high-quality, internationally inspired products alongside locally favored items.
The stores will feature elements directly imported from Spinneys’ successful GCC operations, including a range of imported goods and unique private-label products. Beyond the products themselves, the store design will also reflect the sophisticated aesthetic established in the Gulf region.
This venture also represents a unique connection to the Filipino workforce. Spinneys currently employs over 1,300 Filipinos in its GCC operations, and this partnership aims to both provide continued opportunities abroad and encourage skilled workers to return home and contribute to the Philippines’ economic growth.
While the announcement generated excitement, Ayala Corp. shares experienced a slight dip, falling 2.77% to P526 apiece on Thursday, a reaction likely influenced by broader market factors alongside the news of the investment.
