Wellness and beauty retailer Watsons Philippines has launched four Greener Stores in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig following its first greener store opening in Laguna in June 2024.

Aiming to promote sustainable retail, the new stores in BGC High Street Plaza, Eco Tower, Bonifacio Technology Center, and Forbeswood Parklane seek to lower carbon emissions, lessen landfill waste, conserve water, and offer eco-friendly products.

Sharon Decapia, SAVP for marketing, PR, and sustainability of Watsons Philippines

Push for a plastic-free planet

In an interview with Manila Bulletin (MB), Alisandrea “Lexie” Coloma, senior manager for PR and sustainability of Watsons Philippines, says that “operational waste is sorted in-store and is turned over to local waste collectors” for easier recycling per local directive.

“Apart from this, we also ensure to reuse both electrical and non-electrical store equipment for renovated stores or animations,” she adds.

According to the company, these stores are now energy-efficient, from using inverter cooling appliances to LED lights. It offsets its electricity-related carbon footprint through Energy Attribute Certificates, which help reduce reliance on traditional and dirty power sources like coal and oil, it says.

Shoppers are also encouraged to bring their own bags to curb plastic use. To support a circular economy, they are asked to swap empty beauty and personal care bottles for shopping points, vouchers, or free items.

The retailer provides a curated selection of "Sustainable Choices" products, where buyers can purchase various green selections, from Clean Beauty and Better Ingredients to refill packs and “better” packaging.

“Buying a refill pack is an alternative to buying the products in bottles, which are made with more plastic. Choosing refill packs, while it does not eliminate plastic, is a good way to reduce plastic waste by up to 80 percent. It also takes less energy to produce vs. traditional plastic bottles,” she says in response to what makes these refill packs sustainable.

‘Recycle for Rewards’ bin accepts empty health and beauty containers.

The road ahead

Coloma tells MB that they are committed to integrating more sustainable practices in the way they do their business. 

For 2025, she says expect more Greener Stores in six locations across island areas and central business district, solar panel installations, and Recycle for Rewards bins.

Meanwhile, Sharon Decapia, SAVP for marketing, PR, and sustainability, said, "Health, beauty, and sustainability go hand in hand. This space actually reflects our commitment to creating a more sustainable world. Let's keep making green choices together." 

Store personnel receive training on key sustainability initiatives, including occupational health and safety, energy savings, and waste management, according to Watsons.

“Our vision is to create more Watsons Greener Stores, reducing our environmental impact and embedding sustainability into our daily operations. This transformation is not just about infrastructure but about fostering a culture of sustainability,” she added.