How BDO Powers the Growth of the Philippines’ Biggest Homegrown Retail Brand

Building Bench: How a 38-Year Partnership Between BDO and Suyen Corporation Is Driving Retail Innovation and Sustainable Expansion

Back in 1987, BENCH/ was just a small T-shirt shop with big dreams. Today, it’s one of the Philippines’ most iconic lifestyle brands, with over 1,500 stores worldwide and a powerful presence in both local and international markets.

Behind this success story is a nearly four-decade-long partnership with BDO Unibank, a relationship that has gone far beyond traditional banking.

“From the very start, we recognized that partnering with a trusted bank was fundamental to the success of our business,” shared Virgilio Lim of Suyen Corporation, the company behind BENCH/. “What began as a simple depository relationship has grown into a full-scale financial partnership—credit lines, co-branded products, capital loans, you name it.”

From Retail Startup to Global Lifestyle Powerhouse

Suyen Corporation’s journey with BDO started during its early years and evolved as BENCH/ grew from a single-store brand into a retail powerhouse. Today, Suyen manages 18 homegrown brands and 42 global labels, including Aldo, Jo Malone, Charles & Keith, Paul Boulangerie, and Marugame.

This kind of growth takes more than creativity, it takes a strategic financial partner.

“BDO has been with us every step of the way,” said Bryan Lim of Suyen Corporation. “They’ve supported our construction projects, expansion efforts, and even streamlined operations through services like automatic credit arrangements with our suppliers and landlords.”

Efficient Banking for Rapid Retail Expansion

BDO’s Cash Management Services have played a key role in keeping BENCH/ and its affiliated brands running smoothly nationwide. From payroll solutions and deposit pick-up services to full POS (point-of-sale) integration across stores, BDO ensures day-to-day operations are as seamless as possible.

But beyond functionality, the partnership is also about shared values and future-focused growth.

A Towering Symbol of Sustainability and Innovation

One standout result of this partnership is Bench Tower, Suyen Corporation’s 24-storey green headquarters in Bonifacio Global City. Built to meet LEED Platinum and Green Mark standards, the building reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable development.

“Helping Filipino brands like BENCH/ scale responsibly means more than business growth,” said Charles Rodriguez, Executive Vice President and Head of BDO’s Institutional Banking Group. “Bench Tower represents a long-term vision, one that promotes innovation, generates livelihood, and showcases the best of the Philippines to the world.”

Beyond Retail: A Cultural and Economic Contributor

Suyen Corporation’s impact extends far beyond sales figures. With over 9,000 jobs created and partnerships with more than 700 local suppliers, the company plays a vital role in the Philippine economy. It’s also deeply committed to promoting Filipino culture through initiatives like Ternocon, a collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines that reimagines the traditional Filipino terno for the modern era.

“For 38 years, BDO has made us feel genuinely supported,” said Ben Chan, founder of BENCH/. “Their team is responsive, accommodating, and consistent. We don’t just feel like clients, we feel like partners.”

Empowering Filipino Brands to Shine on the Global Stage

BDO’s long-standing relationship with Suyen Corporation highlights its commitment to championing homegrown enterprises. Through financial expertise, tailor-fit solutions, and a deep understanding of local business needs, BDO empowers brands like BENCH/ to scale sustainably, innovate fearlessly, and compete globally.

As Philippine brands continue to expand their reach, partnerships like this are proving essential—not just for business growth, but for building a stronger, more resilient national economy.