Alfamart Philippines, the minimart business of the SM Group, is expanding its network by at least 200 more new stores in Luzon this year to strengthen further its commitment to making fresh goods and daily essentials more accessible to Filipino neighborhoods.

As of end-2024, Alfamart had 2,100 stores, said SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) in a statement, adding that with its steady growth, the minimart chain continues to generate more job opportunities for local communities.

In 2024 alone, the minimart chain was able to create more than 2,500 new jobs due to its network expansion, which includes the new distribution center located in Sariaya, Quezon.

Alfamart has successfully expanded across 11 provinces, including Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon, Rizal, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pangasinan, and Zambales, as well as 15 cities in Metro Manila.

“Our continued growth is anchored on the needs of the neighborhoods we serve. We remain committed to strengthening our presence in the underserved areas within Luzon, to provide the communities better value and easier access to essential goods,” said Alfamart Philippines Chief Operating Officer Harvey T. Ong.

Beyond job creation, Alfamart’s expansion has opened doors for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to grow. Through strategic partnerships, local entrepreneurs have set up businesses within Alfamart stores, creating a thriving ecosystem that fuels local economic development.

Among the MSMEs that have successfully partnered with Alfamart is Laundry Express, a self-service laundry shop that has grown to over 52 outlets across the Philippines.

Well-loved brands such as Coco Fresh Tea & Juice and Potato Corner are also present in select locations, offering customers more choices.

As part of its commitment to continuous innovation, Alfamart is enhancing its in-store services to provide fresh and affordable options. In collaboration with local hog raisers and poultry farmers, Alfamart offers frozen meats at competitive prices.

To further improve the shopping experience, it has also recently introduced in-store butchers in select stores, allowing customers to select custom cuts and portion sizes of fresh meat.

“As we grow, we want our communities to grow with us. By offering spaces within our stores for MSMEs, we empower local businesses while enhancing the overall shopping experience for our customers,” added Ong.

He noted that, “Fostering inclusive growth, creating more business and employment opportunities, and bringing modern minimart convenience to the communities remain our priority as we enter our second decade of service to the Filipino people.”

Alfamart Philippines is a joint venture between SM and Alfamart Indonesia.