Australian home and lifestyle retailer Anko opened its second Philippine store on Thursday at Alabang Town Center, strengthening its foothold in the country’s fast-growing retail sector and underscoring a strategic partnership with Ayala Corp.
The expansion comes just six months after Anko debuted in the Philippines with its first store at Glorietta in Makati. The brand is known for its affordable, functional home essentials, ranging from smart storage solutions and children’s toys to beauty, pet supplies, and electronics.
Anko Philippines country manager Rachel Turner emphasized the commercial and community impact of the Alabang opening. “Not only do we bring Anko closer to more families, but the opening of this store will bring in new jobs to the area,” she said. Turner also reaffirmed Anko’s commitment to affordability, citing direct manufacturer relationships that cut out third-party costs.
Anko’s entry into the local market is being facilitated by Ayala Corp., which is leveraging its position as landlord to support Anko’s growth. “Retail is clearly out there,” said Ayala president and CEO Cezar P. Consing, referring to the group’s strategic shift to directly engage with consumers beyond its traditional financial and telecom businesses.
Although Ayala has no plans to acquire equity in Anko, the conglomerate will host all four planned Anko stores in 2025 within its shopping malls, including Trinoma in Quezon City. The partnership marks Ayala’s renewed push into brick-and-mortar retail without direct ownership.
Anko, founded in 2017 and part of Australia’s Wesfarmers Ltd. under the Kmart Group, is aiming to capture a growing segment of Filipino consumers seeking value-for-money home products.
