Packworks Data Shows Regional Growth Of Sari-Sari Stores In 2024

Packworks, a Filipino tech startup known for its app ecosystem designed for sari-sari stores, is making waves as it records impressive growth across various regions in the Philippines.

Launched in 2018, Packworks was initially created as a solution for multinational companies seeking to connect with neighborhood stores.

With over 300,000 sari-sari stores under its network, the Sari.PH Pro app has become a trusted tool for small business owners looking to streamline their operations.

According to recent data from Packworks, over 175,000 sari-sari stores actively used the Sari.PH Pro app in 2024, marking a remarkable 32% increase from the 133,000 stores in the previous year.

The growth is most evident in Region VI (Western Visayas) which saw the highest increase in transacting stores at 62%, followed by Region IV-A (CALABARZON) with 50% and Region V (Bicol Region) with 47%. Significant growth was also noted in Region III (Central Luzon) at 26% and Region VII (Central Visayas) at 21%.

Interestingly, the surge in transactions mostly occurred between September to December, the well-known 'ber'-months in the Philippines where consumer spending typically peaks. The national average increase in transacting stores was noted at 12%.

Packworks CEO and founder Bing Tan commented on the positive trend, stating, "Our data illustrates the robust growth of sari-sari store activities in the regions. The surge in the number of stores recorded in our app is a testament to the savvy entrepreneurial spirit of these businesses, which are the grassroots foundation of local economies. As they thrive, they create jobs, stimulate the local retail ecosystem, and contribute to the overall economic development of the Philippines."

Despite the promising figures, Region IV-B (MIMAROPA) experienced the most significant decrease in transacting stores, especially during the months of April and May 2024. This decline was attributed to Typhoon Aghon which hit the region during this period, causing a sharp drop in transactions to 20% in April and approximately 38% in May.

Packworks co-founder Ibba Bernardo highlighted the importance of accessibility to essential services in the provinces, particularly in areas prone to natural calamities.

He said, "Aside from providing them with business tools, empowering sari-sari stores also means ensuring they have the essential services to remain operational, even during challenging times. Access to reliable Internet connectivity and power is critical for community preparedness and recovery. We hope that by sharing this data, we can highlight where strategies for growth and support can be focused this 2025, especially with upcoming elections and seasonal climate impact events on the horizon. By strengthening these crucial services, we can help nurture these businesses further and make them more resilient and sustainable to the communities they serve."

Today, Packworks covers 96% of the Philippines’ provinces and extends to more than 15,000 barangays, reaching nearly 23% of the estimated 1.3 million sari-sari stores nationwide.

Launched in 2018, Packworks was initially created as a solution for multinational companies seeking to connect with neighborhood stores.

Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive B2B platform designed to empower all stakeholders in the supply chain ecosystem—from sari-sari store owners to wholesalers, distributors, and even renowned FMCG companies.

Through the Sari.PH Pro app, store owners can access various features including pricing tools, inventory management, sales and revenue tracking, and even working capital loans.