Why the digitization of sari-sari stores matters for the planet

Every Filipino neighborhood has a sari-sari store. Today, these humble shops are stepping into the digital age, with e-wallets transforming how they do business. It may seem like a simple upgrade, but it’s a quiet move toward sustainability, one that supports long-term economic growth, social equity, and environmental care.

- BY LEN AMADORA

E-wallet use jumps 75 percent in sari-sari stores, fueling digital transformation.

“Sari-sari,” which means “variety,” refers to small convenience stores that sell almost everything — from daily essentials like shampoo to snacks and canned goods. Deeply rooted in Filipino culture, these small enterprises often operate from homes. Because they use minimal energy, require no large infrastructure, and rely on local supply chains, they are inherently sustainable. They provide livelihood to many without the need for large capital or formal employment.

Now, these corner shops are going digital.

In a recent report by Packworks, a Filipino tech startup and B2B platform provider, sari-sari stores are rapidly digitizing their operations, and this is driven by a significant increase in e-wallet use. The report showed that half of the surveyed store owners saw a 75 percent increase in e-wallet use between January and August 2025.