AS Watson Expands Globally with the Launch of Its 16,800th Store

AS Watson, the parent company of Watsons Philippines, has reached an incredible milestone with the grand opening of its 16,800th store globally.

This expansion strengthens its position as the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer, operating across 29 markets with a diverse portfolio of 12 brands. The new store, located in Rotterdam, marks a significant achievement in AS Watson’s ongoing growth and its commitment to providing an exceptional O+O (Offline plus Online) customer experience.

A Milestone in Global Growth

Dr. Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson, expressed her excitement at the opening ceremony, stating, “The opening of our 16,800th store represents more than just our growth as a company. It symbolizes our dedication to serving communities worldwide, creating jobs, and fostering customer relationships built on trust.”

The number 16,800 holds special meaning in Chinese culture, with the number 6 symbolizing “everything goes smoothly” and 8 representing “good fortune.” Dr. Ngai embraced this significance, expressing optimism for both business success and a brighter future for the world, especially during the festive Christmas season.

Commitment to Growth and Customer Experience

Ed van de Weerd, CEO of AS Watson Benelux, shared his pride in the store’s location, saying, "We’re honored that AS Watson’s 16,800th store opens in vibrant Rotterdam. This underscores our commitment to growth, both in the Benelux region and globally." As the leading health and beauty retailer in the Netherlands, Kruidvat is a vital part of daily life for many Dutch customers, with nearly 1,000 O+O stores and over 24,000 employees.

The new store in Rotterdam spans 770 square meters and caters to over 11,000 customers every week. It is the largest Kruidvat store, offering an impressive selection of over 36,000 products, making it the most extensive assortment among all Kruidvat locations. The store is designed to elevate the O+O shopping experience with clear in-store navigation and seamless integration between online and offline channels.

Watsons Philippines: Bringing Health and Beauty Closer to Filipinos

With over 1,100 stores nationwide, Watsons Philippines continues its mission to provide accessible health, wellness, and beauty products to Filipinos. The Watsons app enhances the customer experience by offering exclusive deals, personalized recommendations, and convenient services like Click & Collect and home delivery.

AS Watson’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of its global strategy. The company’s continued expansion aims to deliver smiles to customers worldwide, ensuring that health and beauty remain accessible to all.

For more information about AS Watson, Watsons Philippines, and the latest offers, follow Watsons on social media or visit their website.