In support of MSMEs, SM launched Kasama ng SM, a nationwide campaign inviting all its customers to buy local to help all of us bounce back better. The country’s MSMEs contribute to about one third of total jobs nationwide.
Throughout the Philippines, SM shares the inspiring stories of its MSME partners and their resilience in adapting through the new normal with a passion to serve.
Supporting MSMEs through Shop Iloilo!
Aligned to SM’s Kasama ng SM Campaign, SM City Iloilo celebrates the city’s 83rd Charter Day through Shop Iloilo, inviting everyone to buy local and support local artisans. In partnership with Obra Ilonggo, a social enterprise that supports community livelihood, founded by Mrs. Rosalie Treñas, wife of Mayor Jerry Trenas, SM City Iloilo showcases local products made by the Ilonggo community artisans.
“Every product means a big help to each community and is a testament of how resilient the Ilonggos are, that even during a global pandemic, they are still able to create and produce beautiful things,” shares Mrs. Rosalie Treñas.
Shop Iloilo also supports all the MSME partners of SM City Iloilo who demonstrate the resilience of the Ilonggo entrepreneurs through innovation and sheer commitment to serve.
Nicolette Bakery + Café
Ted and Nicolette Valderama jumped on the opportunity to open a café at SM. When the Covid-19 pandemic struck, they started a new range of “ready to cook” deli products their customers can cook at the comfort of their homes. Through SM’s support in waived fees, marketing and delivery services, they were able to serve their customers amid the challenges. “Covid-19 taught us that SM Cares,” shares Ted. “SM’s generosity should be shared.”
Coffee Brewtherhood
Andrew Canamo saw the need for local baristas to be trained and have a sense of community. Apart from supporting the brotherhood of baristas, Coffee Brewtherhood also supports Ilonggo coffee farmers. “We use coffee from Davao and Robusta coffee from Iloilo, which we are sourcing from La Granja Cereza Roja Farm in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo,” expounds Andrew. Through the pandemic, their brotherhood inspired their commitment to continually serve their customers.
Bakery and Café
Through the years, JD Bakery and Café kept attuned to different trends. Adapting to the new normal was not difficult for them as they quickly offered delivery services. During times of crisis, Tyrone Diez, owner of JD Bakery and Café, admires the Filipino’s fighting spirit to rise above the challenges that life brings. “We learned that we Filipinos are very creative and resilient.”
Supporting MSMEs: Our Road to Recovery
SM is home to thousands of MSMEs. It journeys with them through their ups and downs, helping budding entrepreneurs realize their dreams and promoting Produktong Pinoy form different provinces of the country.
“We can bounce back better through this crisis,” shares Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls. “Supporting our own MSMEs together is our only road to recovery. We invite everyone to join us to support our MSMEs and help keep jobs. Shop Iloilo today!”
To know more about how you can support MSMEs in your local SM Mall, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on Facebook.
