21 March 2025, Manila, Philippines – Packworks, a Filipino tech startup providing an app ecosystem for sari-sari stores, has seen significant growth in the number of stores transacting on its platform. With over 300,000 sari-sari stores in its network, Packworks data shows that more than 175,000 stores actively used the Sari.PH Pro app in 2024, a 32% increase from the previous year’s 133,000 stores.
Region VI (Western Visayas) recorded the highest growth at 62%, followed by Region IV-A (CALABARZON) at 50%, and Region V (Bicol Region) at 47%. Other regions, including Region III (Central Luzon) and Region VII (Central Visayas), also saw notable increases of 26% and 21%, respectively. Growth was especially evident from September to December, aligning with the peak ‘ber’-month season in the Philippines. Overall, there was a 12% national increase in transacting stores.
“Our data showcases the impressive growth of sari-sari stores nationwide, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit that drives local economies. These businesses not only create jobs but also stimulate the local retail ecosystem,” said Packworks CEO and founder, Bing Tan.
However, Region IV-B (MIMAROPA) experienced a significant drop in transactions due to Typhoon Aghon in April and May 2024, with a 20% drop in April and a 38% decrease in May.
Packworks co-founder Ibba Bernardo stressed the importance of providing essential services like reliable internet and power to support sari-sari store growth, especially in disaster-prone areas. “We hope this data will guide strategies for growth and support as we prepare for 2025,” said Bernardo.
Packworks now covers 96% of the Philippines’ provinces and reaches nearly 23% of the 1.3 million sari-sari stores nationwide. Founded in 2018, Packworks has grown rapidly, offering tools like inventory management, pricing, and working capital loans through the Sari.PH Pro app.
To learn more about how Packworks supports sari-sari stores, visit http://packworks.io/.
