H&M set to open three more branches before year’s end

Less than a month after it opened its first branch in the Philippines at SM Mega Fashion Hall, Swedish brand H&M opened a second branch at Robinsons Magnolia four days ago. The winter collection of apparel, footwear and accessories for men, women and children is now in the store, but what’s new and notable is the wide range of items from  Mama, H&M Sport and Home.

The Home collection has its own nicely decorated space on the left side of the main entrance and consists mainly of bath towels,  beddings, holiday ornaments and items for entertaining (plates, paper napkins, tea towels).

Plain white or gray fitted cotton sheets were priced at P599, while printed duvet covers were going for under P1,000.

A queue formed outside the mall as early as Tuesday dawn for the chance to win gift certificates worth as much as P5,000 that could be used in the store. Others who lined up received tote bags and umbrellas.

PR manager Dan Mejia told Inquirer Lifestyle that the country broke the record for the longest line for a store opening at the SM Megamall last month. H&M finds the Philippines “a really interesting market.”

It appears the global chain is intent on discovering more about this market, as it will open—count ’em—three more branches before the end of the year: SM City North Edsa, SM Makati and Robinsons Place Manila. The store at SM City North Edsa will be the first to carry plus sizes for women. RCK