NEIGHBORHOOD mom-and-pop stores, also known as sari-sari stores, posted strong energy drink and iced tea sales last year, the hottest year on record, according to tech startup Packworks.
“Our data underscores the critical role sari-sari stores play in providing immediate relief and meeting the ongoing demand for essential refreshment, especially during the hotter months,” Packworks Chief Data Officer Andoy Montiel said.
“As forecasts predict continued warm periods this year, it solidifies the sari-sari stores’ role as a crucial touchpoint for consumers nationwide, especially for regions that are sweltering through warmer conditions,” he added.
In 2024, energy drink brand Sting recorded an 83% increase in sales to P34 million in gross merchandise value.
This was most pronounced in Mindanao, where the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) posted a 1,810% increase, Region XIII or Caraga booked a +575% increase, and Region X or Northern Mindanao growth was 554% increase.
“The sales spikes in Mindanao coincided with the all-time temperature records posted, particularly in Butuan City and Malaybalay City, Bukidnon,” Packworks said.
Powdered iced tea brand Nestea posted sales growth of 76% to P30 million in 2024.
Top regions for Nestea sales were Region IV-A, or Calabarzon; Region VII, or the Central Visayas; and Region I, or the Ilocos Region.
Posting top Nestea sales growth were Region V, or the Bicol Region; BARMM; and Region VI, or the Western Visayas.
“Both Sting and Nestea saw their sales peak in March 2024, coinciding with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) declaration of the start of the dry season,” Packworks said.
“Sting saw a 43% sales increase over the previous month, while Nestea saw a 24% increase,” it added.
“With prolonged periods of warm weather and all-time temperature spikes recorded last year, consumers nationwide found ways to cope with the record-breaking heat at their neighborhood stores,” Packworks said. — Justine Irish D. Tabile