Because sports is for everyone
With it’s hashtag #SportsforEveryJuan, Decathlon Philippines has, throughout its 4 years here in the country, strongly made the case for championing the democratization of sports equipment and apparel. It’s achieved this by marketing quality and resilient merchandise, while offering unbeatable value through its plethora of in-house brands. What this translates to, is over 5,000 high-quality sports products, spread over more than 70 sports. Unless you’re indulging in some totally obscure sports, Decathlon certainly has something for you on their shelves and racks.
It all started in 2017 when they opened the doors of their big box concept store in Alabang - and this was coupled with the launch of their e-commerce platform, decathlon.ph. A branch is Pasig soon followed, plus one in Antipolo. A long-term partnership with SM Supermalls was forged earlier this year, to make Decathlon even more accessible and have high street presence, and this resulted in the city concept store at SM North EDSA opening last month.
And to ensure that the South doesn’t feel left out, Decathlon Pasay at the SM MOA opened this weekend—December 18 being the red-letter day. It’s 1,500 square meters of well-organized Sports Retail; and I for one, immediately sensed how it’s vibe is different from that of their North EDSA branch. With higher floor to ceiling clearance, and an L-shaped floor area; the nooks for interactive shopping and the feeling of it all being spacious, have been enhanced.
As Ian Reoperez, Store Manager of Decathlon Pasay, was proud to declare, “Each Decathlon Platform aims to make an impact on the local community, through and for, the love of sports. And each person who discovers their love for sports within the Decathlon walls, is a win for each of us.” And call Ian prescient, but with the lightening of our COVID restrictions, our preoccupation with health and wellness, makes Decathlon the perfect partner, as we embark on our individual trips to fitness.
Camping, hiking, the outdoors, have all emerged as extremely popular among sports enthusiasts—and this is one arena in which Decathlon should be your very first stop before your next outing. Whether with family or with friends, or both; the range of Decathlon products related to these activities should be considered. I love how the tents they carry open like a hand fan, and the guarantee is that they assemble in two to three seconds! As to when you need to pack up, it’ll take a little more time, like a minute, and you’re off. The material used in some of the tents are perfect for here, guaranteeing coolness within, even in the middle of the day.
Water sports are another big thing, as we are a tropical country and comprised of islands. On this count, check out the wide array of Decathlon products begging to be let out of the store, and bask in our sunshine. From affordable kayaks, to beginner surfboards, and all types of beachwear, apparel, and footgear, this section of Decathlon Pasay may just tempt you to do a five hundred meter dash and jump into Manila Bay.
Found an interesting machine that one can use for free—it basically analyzes your foot, it’s arch, and shape—and then makes suggestions and recommendations on what footwear is most appropriate for your feet. It matches shoe size with foot type, and I’ve not seen many stores here offer that.
Bicycles and cycling are also big things this season, and let’s not forget how big cycling is in France, where Decathlon is headquartered. You doubt me? Well, just complete this ‘question and answer’—the biggest, most popular, most challenging, and sought for, cycling race in the world is the Tour de…. Does France ring a bell? So head to Decathlon as see the vast number of models they carry, form bicycles for kids, to those who wish to do it re recreationally, and those who are of a more serious nature.
If there’s a plus column for Decathlon, customer service would be first on that list. There are lifetime warranties, return and exchange policies, next day delivery, click and collect initiatives—and we haven’t even begun talking about the in-store service. The sales staff at any Decathlon store aren’t just bodies programmed to sell—they’re often found manning sections for sports activities they actually pursue and are fond of. So there’ll always be a unusually high degree of knowledge about what they’re selling, and can recommend, or offer as advice.
Decathlon Pasay is now open, and along with Decathlon North EDSA, are sports experiences waiting for you to enjoy. I can only do so much convincing you about why Decathlon is truly unique in Sports Retailing—a visit to their physical stores, or to their website, will help you understand and appreciate the Decathlon vision that’s available here in the Philippines.