Founded in Beijing, China, POP MART is best known for its collectible designer toys and figurines sold in the popular "blind box" format, where buyers do not know which character they will receive until they open the box.
The Davao pop-up store debuted with one of the brand's well-loved characters, CRYBABY, marking the company's latest expansion in the Philippines.
The opening reflects POP MART's continued growth as demand for character-led collectibles increases, particularly among younger consumers. Prior to its Mindanao launch, the company opened its first Visayas pop-up store at Ayala Center Cebu on June 4.
Cathy Magpatoc, General Manager of Ayala Malls Abreeza, said POP MART recognized Davao City's strong market potential.
"I believe the confidence is there. The market is already right for the taking. We've long been ready, so we see the potential in Davao City," she said in an interview.
She added that the opening brings the globally popular brand closer to collectors and first-time buyers in the region.
"Having a POP MART store here in the locality brings the brand closer to enthusiasts and even to those who have yet to buy one. It's a very exciting offering for us here in Davao," Magpatoc said.
She also noted that Mindanao-based collectors no longer need to travel to Thailand or Beijing, China, to purchase POP MART products, as they are now available locally through the Ayala Malls Abreeza pop-up store.
Magpatoc believes the Davao opening is only the beginning of POP MART's expansion in Mindanao.
"Definitely, more POP MART products are coming. This is just the beginning of many firsts for us here at Ayala Malls in Mindanao," she said.
Marilen Villamayor, Country Head of POP MART Philippines, expressed optimism about the brand's growth prospects in Davao and across Mindanao.
"I hope you can share POP MART products with the Davao community on a different level and highlight the connection of our products with our fans, as well as the excitement of unboxing," she said during the opening ceremony.
Known for its signature "Blind Box" retail concept, POP MART has built a loyal global following through designer toys, original characters, and limited-edition collaborations that transform collecting into a fun and engaging experience.
The company's expansion in the Philippines reflects the broader growth of the collectibles market across Southeast Asia, driven by active fan communities, social media engagement, and increasing demand for exclusive and limited-edition products.
For Davao City, the arrival of POP MART adds another internationally recognized lifestyle brand to its growing retail landscape, as demand for experience-driven and trend-focused concepts continues to rise among younger consumers, t, the company said. Judy Quiros
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