Watsons has opened four new “Greener Stores” in Bonifacio Global City, expanding its efforts to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainable retail practices across the Philippines. These new locations are part of Watson’s sustainable line aimed at transforming retail operations.
The health and beauty retailer said the new locations — at High Street Plaza, Eco Tower, Bonifacio Technology Center and Forbeswood Parklane — are designed to conserve energy and water, reduce landfill waste and support more sustainable shopping habits. The launch is closely aligned with the Watson sustainable line’s goals and builds on the company’s first Greener Store, which opened in San Pedro, Laguna, in June 2024.
Watsons said the new stores feature energy-efficient lighting, inverter cooling systems, and fixtures made from responsibly sourced or recycled materials. These features are essential components of the Watson sustainable line. They also incorporate waste diversion practices such as recycling, upcycling and reusing store fittings across other branches.
“Greener Stores are our way of embedding sustainability into daily operations, not just in infrastructure but in how we engage employees and customers,” Sharon Decapia, senior assistant vice president for marketing, PR and sustainability, said in a statement.
Each store is equipped with smart meters to monitor electricity use. The company also offsets emissions by purchasing Energy Attribute Certificates, which support the use of renewable energy and reduce dependence on coal and oil as part of the Watson sustainable line initiatives.
Customers are encouraged to bring reusable bags and take part in Watsons’ Recycle for Rewards program, which offers shopping points or freebies in exchange for returning empty beauty and personal care containers. The program is part of the company’s push for circular consumption and waste reduction.
Store staff are trained on sustainability practices including energy conservation, occupational safety and waste management. Educational signage is displayed in-store to inform shoppers about environmental initiatives and responsible consumer behavior.
The company said it uses Forest Stewardship Council- and PEFC-certified recycled paper and wood for store fixtures and displays. Marketing materials made from Solidus, an eco-friendlier alternative to PVC-based boards, are also used.
In addition to infrastructure changes, Watsons has introduced a selection of Sustainable Choices products at the BGC locations. These include clean beauty items, refillable products, and those with improved ingredients and packaging, all aimed at helping shoppers make more environmentally conscious purchases through Watson’s sustainable line.
To mark the launch on April 26, Watsons held an eco-tour around the four stores, which included customers, influencers and local residents. The tour highlighted the company’s environmental features and efforts to make sustainable choices more accessible.
Watsons said it plans to open more Greener Stores in the future as part of its broader sustainability roadmap, enhancing the Watson sustainable line vision.
