MUJI OPENS ITS FIRST FLAGSHIP STORE IN THE PHILIPPINES

Muji, the Japanese brand beloved by minimalists (and many who aren't), launched its first flagship store in the Philippines on April 24 in Glorietta 3, Makati.

- By CECILE J. BALTASAR

Muji, the Japanese brand beloved by minimalists (and many who aren't), launched its first flagship store in the Philippines on April 24 in Glorietta 3, Makati. Its eighth and biggest store in the country opened in the same month Muji Philippines celebrated its eighth anniversary. Even for dates of special occasions, Muji likes to keep things simple.

Guests at the store launch—a colorful group of style icons, celebrities, and the curious public—sat on wooden benches and snacked on maki while taking in Muji's spring/summer 2025 collection. Muted pastels and simple cuts dominated the stage, with a few models lugging a couple of Muji carry-on suitcases as they walked down the runway.

"Our flagship stores, like this one in the Philippines, are more than just locations," says Akihiro Kamogari, officer in charge of Southeast Asia Operations, and director of Business for Muji Thailand. "The stores are spaces where our customers can experience our brand's identity and values. We build the future of the business together with our partners by listening to the local voices." Echoing Kamogari's enthusiasm for the brand is Anton Huang, chairman of Muji Philippines and president of SSI Group Inc., Muji Philippines' partner since the brand came to the country over 10 years ago.