Under Armour increases its hold of the Philippine Market as it opens a Brand House in Ayala Center Cebu
For the past 20 years, Under Armour has gone from a cult favorite to a global phenomenon. Founder Kevin Plank's extensive research on synthetic materials has perfected the athlete's basic apparel. Now, with its major expansion to a wide array of sports and a steady increase retail outlets, Under Armour has finally arrived in the southern shores of the country on May 22.
Located on the premiere ground level of Ayala Center Cebu, hobbyists and athletes can now browse through a wide range of innovative, quality merchandise with a steady supply of new products.
"We are extremely grateful for, and humbled by, the incredibly warm reception from our Filipino customers. We believe UA's success is a direct offshoot of the worldwide trend towards an active lifestyle, and how the brand values reflected in our products have successfully promoted such," said Triple Pte. Ltd. CEO Michael Binger. The company holds exclusive distribution rights for UA across Southeast Asia. "During his visit to the Philippines, Under Armour Founder, chairman & CEO Kevin Plank has described Asia Pacific as one of the linchpins for truly defining UA as a global brand. Indeed, our upward business trajectory here exemplifies that, and increasing our presence should further enable it," he added.
Tin Majadillas, Managing Director of One of a Kind Marketing, has further plans to develop more presence of Under Armour in Cebu. Aside from supporting the upcoming Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championships, UA will be holding various clinics and championing advocacies in the Visayas and Mindanao. Free running clinics and other sports activities will be held for free. Cebu will be expecting a possible women's event on October, such as that of Armour Day for Women in Manila.
UA ambassador Coach Jim Saret - Philippine Olympic Team and TV's Biggest Loser Philippines Trainer will soon be more visible here to help enhance the fit and healthy lifestyle of the community. Saret holds international certifications and a Master's Degree in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training has been working with Under Armour to further the country's sports community. During the store opening's press con, Coach Saret said,
"We have been assigned by the POC (Philippine Olympic Committee) to train the 10% of the national team athletes. The ones who compete abroad. We would love to bring to the [general community] this expertise. Ang goal namin is to raise the standards. Kasi right now, we are teaching the elite. Saan bah galing ang elite? Di bah sa grass roots. We are working with the National Sports Association (NSA), DepEd, and private partners like Under Armour to make it happen."
Highlighting the opening of UA's new brand house is the Armour Challenge. The competition, held at the Ayala Center Cebu's Activity Center, consists of challenges that test the physical fitness participants that comprise of runners, endurance athletes and cross fit enthusiasts. The fastest to complete the exercises won Under Armour merchandise and coupons. All participants automatically received bands and discounts as well.
Under Armour's other brand houses are located at BGC, Megamall and UP Town Center. Also available in multi-branded sports houses such as Toby's OV, Planet Sports, Rustan's and major stores in key cities. Visit www.underarmour.com.ph for more information.
