20 Aug 2009
Bench plans to expand in Tacloban
by Sarwell Q. Meniano

TACLOBAN CITY- A local franchisee of Bench clothing is optimistic of expanding in this city after it recently opened a new branch at the Robinson's Place Tacloban.

Melvin Rompal, the sole franchisee of Bench in this city, said that they are ready to open a new shop if there will be a new mall that will locate in this city.

"After ten years of Bench's presence in this city, we decided to expand because items are sellable considering its standard price nationwide. This is our second branch. We expect a better market in the next years. We have experienced that despite of the economic crisis, people will still buy our products if they want it," Rompal said in an interview.

The Bench store has been operating in downtown area of the city since 1999, next to a shop owned by the family. Other than being a franchisee of Bench, Rompal is also the owner of Kevin's and Brian's store, Tita Del's eatery, and an internet shop.

"The company is committed to set up more shops in the city. We will go along with expansion of malls here," he added. The new branch is located within the 148 square meter area at the ground floor of the Gokongwei-owned mall. The owner put up a P7.5 million investment.

The franchisee is convinced that the city is becoming a good market for popular clothing brands such as Bench.

"When we opened the first Bench store in Tacloban 10 years ago, we're able to note a return of investment after a year and a half. Even with the presence of many competitors now, we are still optimistic to recover the investment within two years," he explained.

Rompal said that Bench conducted a study in Ormoc City and Samar area but they concluded that it will take years before they can set up stores in those areas.

Beginning in 1987 with a small store selling men's t-shirts. It's website revealed that Bench grew at a unparalleled rate by being the pioneer in the use of celebrity endorsers, television ang giant billboards to propel a fashion brand that offers premium quality products at affordable prices.

To date, Bench has grown to include a ladies' line, underwear, fragrances, house ware, snacks, and a wide array of other lifestyle products, with the distinction of being present in virtually every retail space in the country.

Recently, the company was able to establish worldwide network of stores and outlets, reaching as far as the United States, the Middle East, and China.


Source:
http://leytesamardaily.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8196&Itemid=233