The Gokongwei Group’s Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI) remains optimistic about its business and is planning capital expenditures (capex) of ₱5 billion to ₱7 billion this year, mainly to be invested in the construction of new branches and the renovation of existing stores across all its brands.

In an interview at the relaunch of the newly renovated Robinsons Supermarket at Robinsons Magnolia mall, RRHI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Stanley C. Co said that they are cautiously optimistic “because we do face some headwinds.”

“But supermarket and drugstore, it’s a staple. People will still buy. It’s just a question of what will customers buy. Will they downgrade? If they downgrade, we have to be ready for them. We need to have what they’re looking for,” he noted.

Co added that there are cases where customers actually upgrade by buying larger sizes because of the savings. Despite challenges, he said basket sizes did not shrink as consumers continue to spend on essentials.

Meanwhile, he said they plan to open 15 new branches for their supermarket business this year, while their big box and more upscale grocery retailer Shopwise will also aim to open its newest branch in Cainta, Rizal, before the end of 2026, with “our target actually to open around two per year.”

“We are looking at [opening Shopwise branches] nationwide, and we already have Shopwise in Cebu,” Co noted.

Aside from new branches, RRHI is also renovating and upgrading about 15 percent of its existing 158 supermarket branches in response to the changing preferences of consumers in certain locations.

So far, the company has relaunched three branches, starting with Robinsons Supermarket Galleria and Robinsons Townville Nuvali. The Robinsons Magnolia branch was relaunched on Friday, Feb. 27, after a major facelift that cost about ₱200 million.

As part of its major store transformation, the Magnolia store unveils a modern and vibrant supermarket designed to make everyday shopping more convenient and rewarding.

The revitalized space features a contemporary look with matcha-colored tiles, burgundy accents, and a sleek gray backdrop at the meat and poultry section that enhances product visibility and elevates the overall ambiance.

Strengthening its commitment to wellness, the store reintroduces a dedicated section with clearly defined categories, such as keto-friendly, low- and no-sugar, gluten-free, organic, high-fiber, low-sodium, beauty, and health supplements. The curated assortment enables customers to make more informed lifestyle choices with ease.

The store also features a ready-to-eat section where customers can buy dishes to be served at home or consumed on the premises. It continues to offer farm-fresh produce and an assortment of trusted local and imported grocery staples.

Simultaneous with the relaunch, Robinsons Supermarket also held its first Go Rewards Black Card exclusive event for cardholders with a minimum ₱100,000 annual spend.

Black Card holders receive exclusive discounts on featured and premium items, free gifts with purchase, members-only deals, and priority and exclusive lanes.

“In a time of shifting behaviors and evolving Philippine markets, understanding our customers remains at the heart of what we do. Through Go Rewards, we celebrate and reward our Filipino customers and partners, helping businesses strengthen relationships, make smarter decisions and serve their communities better,” said Cindy Deng, president and CEO of Go Rewards Data Analytics Ventures Inc. (DAVI).

Kerwin Legarde, Robinsons Supermarket group general manager, said, “This relaunch is more than a new look—it marks our continued evolution as a brand. With Robinsons Magnolia, we’re elevating the shopping experience, celebrating loyalty through our first Black Card exclusive event, and staying true to our commitment of bringing goodness home to every Filipino family.”