Robinsons Place Manila — Attraction in Manila

Maybe it's because I have seen what exceptional customer service looks like from the same branded stores in Mall of Asia and Alabang Town Center, that is why I was recently saddened by how I didn't experience what I had been used to in their branches in Robinsons Manila.

Last November 2020, I read an article in the Business Section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer entitled, "For shoppers to return, retailers must offer omnichannel, memorable experience." It quoted Mr. Tantoco. Said he:

"We're trying to immerse ourselves in the lives of our customers. We're trying to understand what their new, unmet and undeserved needs are. Once we understand that, we convert that into insight. We're realizing that the way we present ourselves, the way we approach fulfilling those needs has to change."

To them who might care enough about this review and what it means, I offer yet another article I read in cyberspace last April 2020, by a certain Daniel Langer. Wrote he:

Quote: "Luxury brands often forget over time that they are in the business of creating strong emotions. If a brand doesn’t create an extreme emotional response for its customers, then the brand can’t create extreme value — and the luxury business is all about extreme value creation.

"When we analyze unsuccessful luxury brands, a common aspect is a lack of emotion. Brands tend to rely too much on their history or product features and neglect the necessity of touching people’s hearts.

"An emotional response happens when something excites us — it’s as simple as this. No one likes to be bored, which is why luxury brands always need to question everything they do while embracing creativity, artistry, and inspiration. If a brand loses the ability to innovate and inspire, it cannot excite. And then it becomes irrelevant, loses its cultural importance, and starts to decline.

"Given the importance of emotion, a brand strategy needs to define exactly which specific emotion it should evoke. There must be zero uncertainty about how the brand inspires. In many brand audits, this is a major weak point we identify over and over. Most managers are able to place their brand into the correct category but can’t describe the precise emotional elements of their brand (hint: an answer like “we are selling a dream," should worry you.) All luxury brands should “sell a dream.” That statement doesn’t differentiate or guide the consumer. Brands must be dramatically more precise.

"A perfectly planned emotional strategy won’t be relevant if it only exists on paper. After a brand defines its emotional story, it needs to plan a highly-detailed customer journey, so that customers can feel these emotions. A brand is only as strong as the excitement it creates for people.

"So ask yourself: Is your brand evoking an emotional response? Is your brand strategy based on the psychology of luxury? If your answer isn’t clear, you need to act — and fast — because a brand is relevant or it isn’t. If a luxury brand doesn’t offer pure emotion, then it isn’t offering any value, and if there is no value, there won’t be sales. The time to wake up and act is now." End quote.

Actually, a retail store or even a food outlet inside Robinsons Manila does NOT have to be a luxury brand. If a store or a food outlet CAN NOT EXTEND "customer engagement," or "customer care," or even the simplest "customer service," the question is:

WHY IS IT SO DIFFICULT FOR SALES PERSONNEL TO BE JUST NICE TO CUSTOMERS

or

TO JUST SHOW CUSTOMERS THAT THE SALES PERSONNEL ARE HAPPY TO...

Robinsons Place Manila is a Shoppers Paradise in the Heart of Manila

Nestled in the bustling heart of Manila, the city's premier mall stands as a beacon of entertainment, shopping, and culinary delights — a true haven for locals and foreigners alike. Boasting an array of activities catering to diverse interests, this gem of a shopping complex offers an unparalleled experience that extends beyond mere retail therapy.

Shopping Extravaganza: ★★★★★ The mall is a shopaholic's dream come true, with a myriad of stores ranging from high-end fashion boutiques to quirky local shops. Whether you're in search of the latest fashion trends, electronics, or unique souvenirs, the mall has it all. The well-designed layout makes navigation a breeze, and the diverse selection ensures there's something for everyone.

Culinary Delights: ★★★★★ The gastronomic adventure that awaits within the mall is nothing short of impressive. From local street food stalls to upscale international restaurants, the food court alone is a culinary journey through diverse flavors. The mall truly celebrates the richness of Filipino cuisine while offering an international feast for the taste buds. Whether you're craving local delicacies or international fare, the gastronomic options are bound to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Entertainment Galore: ★★★★★ Beyond shopping and dining, the mall is a hub for entertainment, making it an ideal destination for families and groups. Movie buffs can indulge in the latest blockbusters at the state-of-the-art cinema, while thrill-seekers can engage in friendly competition at the bowling alley and billiards hall. The inclusion of a kids' theme park ensures that the younger members of the family are not left out, providing a safe and engaging space for them to play and explore.

Scenic Views and Relaxation: ★★★★★ For those seeking a respite from the excitement, the mall offers tranquil spaces with scenic views. The fountains add a touch of serenity, providing a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls. The well-maintained greenery and seating areas allow visitors to relax and unwind, creating a harmonious blend of urban and natural elements within the mall's design.

Family and Group Bonding: ★★★★★ The mall excels in providing activities that foster family and group bonding. Whether it's a friendly bowling match, a thrilling round of billiards, or enjoying a movie together, the variety of options ensures that there's something for every age group. The thoughtful incorporation of a kids' theme park adds an extra layer of family-friendly fun, making it a go-to destination for wholesome entertainment.

The mall in the heart of Manila stands as a testament to the city's vibrant spirit. Its seamless integration of shopping, dining, entertainment, and relaxation makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a foodie, or a family looking for a day of fun, this mall offers an all-encompassing experience that is sure to leave you coming...

Love this place and try to go almost every time I'm in Manila. Dozens and dozens of stores and shops and restaurants from all over the world from Wendy's hamburger restaurants to high Japanese steakhouse and many other restaurants serving various Asian foods and snacks as well as restaurants from other parts of the world They sell everything from socks to motorcycle gear and I think you can find almost anything you need in this one place. There also is a very big grocery store that also sells some foreign foods and there are pharmacies also that have always had everything I need. Most of the major store chains in the Philippines have stores in Robinsons also so it's a very convenient place to shop The area around Robinsons also has much to offer. There are 7-11's and other convenience shops nearby and across the street as well as many little shops selling clothes and cell phone gear and many other things. There's also a McDonald's across the street that has both inside dining as well as the convenience of being able to order and get your food from outside on the sidewalk without ever having to go into the restaurant. There's a Eurotel hotel across the street which is a moderately priced hotel and is very well located if you have business in Pasay, Manila, and Makati as well as other adjoining areas Robinsons offers on site parking if you desire it but honestly unless you are a person from the area used to driving in the insane traffic of the NCR Manila area it's best not to drive yourself there. The street in front of Robinsons is congested and often at a standstill from early in the morning til late at night but don't let that stop you from going cuz it's worth the traffic. I suggest though that if you have a private vehicle to find a pay to park lot and leaving your car or van there and taking a tricycle. Those guys can maneuver thru any type of traffic and in my opinion are a very safe way to travel and are a great way to be able to sit back and relax and get to see the areas you're going thru. Another advantage in taking a tricycle is the drivers are normally extremely friendly and more importantly know everything there is to know about an area and are not hesitant to tell you areas to avoid which is extremely valuable information and if you have a question but your driver doesn't know English there is more than likely another driver nearby who will hear your question and answer it for you. I can't stress enough the enjoyment or value of taking these tricycles especially to places like Robinsons where the traffic is so bad. Gas is high and the drivers don't make much to begin with so please remember to tip them. It is a big help to them and leaves them with a good feeling and impression regarding whatever country you are from and represent. I tip the drivers and gas attendants. Most others the tip is included already in the price of the service you...