10 Store Openings That Got Us Excited in 2023

(SPOT.ph) There's always something new to look forward to in the shopping scene. From product releases to full-on store openings, whether local brands or foreign ones that have finally reached our shores. Nothing beats seeing a board-up or a countdown and marking the opening date on our calendars. We spotted several in Metro over the past year and let you in on all the major details and good stuff to score. We look back at 10 that had us excited and raring to go.

Also read: 10 Store Openings That Got Us Excited in 2022

These store openings had us rushing to go in person:

Gentle Monster

When the sign first popped up along 5th Avenue in BGC, we knew lovers of both glasses and all things Korean culture would be in for a treat. The South Korean eyewear brand has been a cult fave for years thanks to all the pretty and influential stars wearing it atop their noses, and now, the Filipino crowd can join in the visual feast the physical Gentle Monster space offers. Gone are the days of having to fly to Seoul just to snag a pair. More than the sleek eyewear and avant garde installations, countless fans were excited for Park Seo-Joon's presence during the opening.

Gentle Monster is at 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Also read: LOOK: Gentle Monster Opens First Store in Manila

Gashapon Bandai Official

If you didn't spend a few coins on a capsule toy machine, did you really go to Japan at all? Gashapon Bandai Official opened in the latter part of the year in Mitsukoshi in BGC to much fanfare courtesy of anime fans, toy enthusiasts, and avid collectors. The Japanese brand of luck and chance is spotted everywhere over at the Land of the Rising Sun, and Filipinos can have a go all they want from the store's 300 capsule machines. Take your pick from random miniature food items to highly-coveted figures from your favorite anime.

Gashapon Bandai Official is at 2F Mitsukoshi Mall, BGC, Taguig.

Also read: LOOK: Gashapon Bandai Official Finally Opens in the Philippines

The Editor's Market

It seems like we've been waiting for forever so we're happy to say it's finally over—Singaporean apparel brand The Editor's Market is staying here for good. You can head on over to their store at The Podium without any worries. Initially, the brand opened limited-time pop-ups all over the Metro and you could shop their catalog online, but we know nothing beats seeing the pieces up-close and getting to try them on before buying.

The Editor's Market is at 2F The Podium, Mandaluyong City.

Also read: 10 Finds from The Editor's Market Flagship Store You Can't Miss

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Anik-anik girlies, rise. Danish lifestyle variety store Flying Tiger Copenhagen opened its first branch in the Philippines in Glorietta 4 in Makati and days have been brighter and happier thanks to their wide selection of knick knacks, homeware, seasonal items, and random curios. The fun doesn't stop there—they're set to open branches all over the Metro and we can't for the cuteness overload to take over.

Flying Tiger Copenhagen is at GF Glorietta 4, Makati City.

Also read: LOOK: Variety Store Flying Tiger Copenhagen Opens First Philippine Store

Parqal

Less store and more mall, Parqal in Parañaque City is the new go-to hub. The space is filled with a variety of commercial shopping establishments, restaurants, and even outdoor spaces for you, your friends, and your family. A word play from the terms Park and Kalye, the mixed-use development has more in store, so we'll keep our eyes peeled in 2024 to let you in on the other places that will open in the mall.

Parqal is at Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, Tambo, Parañaque City.

Also read: Heads Up, Shoppers: There's a New Mall Opening in the South

One Ayala

Now this one's more a transport hub with a mall attached, but we won't complain at the chance to de-stress before commuting home or making the most of downtime while waiting for rush hour to end. One Ayala looms over one corner or Makati not just with buses and other transport options, it also has eateries, shops, and service hubs to make it a convenient one-stop shop. More stuff is opening in 2024, and you can trust us to let you know all about it then.

One Ayala is at 1 Ayala Avenue cor. EDSA, Ayala Center.

Also read: Your Definitive Guide to All the Sneaker Shops at One Ayala

Snidel/Fray I.D.

Japanese fashion enthusiasts have heard of Snidel and Fray I.D, but even newbies would be entranced to visit thanks to the store's sleek display of feminine pieces. Though the two brands are usually separated internationally, Snidel and FRAY I.D exist in one space here in the Philippines. Snidel is bolder and more chic, so expect pieces you can wear all day long, will FRAY I.D boasts a line of sophisticated pieces like officewear and formal wear. Regardless of vibe or aesthetic, you're sure to find a piece from one of the brands.

Snidel and FRAY I.D are at GF Mistukoshi Mall, BGC, Taguig City.

Also read: LOOK: Japanese Brands Snidel and FRAY I.D Open Their First Philippine Store

Hoka

When we found out French sports and lifestyle brand Hoka would open their doors in Manila, we just had to let you know. While some running shoes look great, Hoka takes functionality and comfort seriously with their line of protective and ergonomic pairs runners would kill to get their hands, er, feet on. There are retailers carrying the brand, but Hoka's official store carries a wider selection and more stocks.

Hoka is at 2F Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, cor Aseana Ave.

Also read: SPOTTED: Hoka Is Putting Up Shop in This Buzzing New Mall in Makati

Toni Pons

Nothing screams summer quite like a pair of stylish espadrilles and no one knows that better than Spanish footwear brand Toni Pons. The handmade pairs are crafted to fit the feet of women, men, and children, so you're bound to find a pair that will brighten your wardrobe. Aside from the classic espadrille silhouette, they also carry wedges, sandals, slip-ons, and sneakers that can seamless make its way to your footwear rotation for a good price.

Toni Pons is at 3F Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

Also read: SPOTTED: Spanish Footwear Brand Toni Pons Is Opening in Manila