Metro, the retail store in Cebu and owned by Viscal Development Corp., yesterday broke ground for its 5,500-square meter hypermarket to be built within the Ayala North Point Mall at Brgy. Matab-ang, Talisay City.

Eduardo Ponce, president of Metro Retail Group, said the hypermarket is a combination of supermarket and general merchandise store that will have about 60 percent food and dry goods, and 40 percent general merchandise.

The hypermarket is expected to open in April 2013. The Metro Store Talisay will be Metro’s 25th store and its second hypermarket store. Ponce said. They also plan to build more Metro stores in Negros Occidental in the future, he added.

CJ Jesena, Metro vice president for marketing and retail development, said the hypermarket will have approximately 3,300 sqm. of selling area that will display dry goods, appliances, and a food court.

The hypermarket is like a large supermarket, he said.

He is optimistic about the retail business in Negros Occidental, Ponce said, adding that it is about knowing ones customers and providing them the right products and services.

They feel they will be able to bring something exciting to Negros, he said.

Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr., who was present, thanked Metro for its participation in the development and growth of Negros Occidental being one of the biggest names of retail industry in the Philippines

“You have chosen the most dynamic stage of Negros progress to invest in our future. You will find here a huge potential for growth and substantial market for your retail business in many years to come.” Marañon said.

The governor also thanked Ayala Land Inc., through Emilio Tumbocon, ALI senior vice president, for their contribution and commitment to the socio- economic development of the province.

He also said that ALI property development will change the landscape of Negros Occidental and will be a great help to its people in terms of employment and better standards.

In his message that was read by Councilor Edmundo Celes, Talisay Mayor Eric Saratan said they are proud to claim that ALI saw the prospect of investing in their city.

“I know that Metro will not waiver its commitment in providing better business opportunities in creating jobs when you decided to put up here,” Saratan said.

He also said in his message that he hopes for a lasting partnership and heritage of health business enterprises, innovations, economic stability, and growth with Metro and ALI.*LTG

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