PRA-Cebu prexy sees need to empower retail industry, adapt new tech to boost market share

CEBU CITY – The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA)-Cebu Chapter elected and inducted Christian Paro-an as its new president for 2023 term including the officers and new members during its 1^st Membership Meeting and Induction of Officers and New Members on May 24, at the City Sports Club Cebu.

“There is great need to empower the retail industry in Cebu, improve the quality of goods and services offered to our customers, foster local entrepreneurship, and to represent our interests both locally and nationally. Our unity is our strength. Let us learn from each other, share our experiences, pool our resources, and collectively address the challenges ahead,” Paro-an said in his speech during the event.

Paro-an noted that there is a need for the PRA Cebu chapter members to work together and for companies to tap new technologies to help boost sales, reach more markets, and increase market share.

Paro-an also cited how technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), and Virtual Reality (VR) have revolutionized the retail sector globally. These new technologies allow for more personalized and efficient customer experiences.

He added that data analytics can help businesses understand the customers better and make more informed strategic decisions.  As consumers increasingly move online, having a robust e-commerce platform is no longer just an option but a necessity for most retail businesses.

“But beyond our economic goals, we must never lose sight of our social responsibility. We must strive to create job opportunities, uphold fair trade practices, and contribute to the sustainable development of our beloved city, Cebu,” he bared.

The country’s retail industry may experience robust growth, powered by a rising middle class and increased consumer spending, Paro-an pointed to the growth of e-commerce and the accelerated online shopping habits of consumers as a result of the pandemic.

According to Paro-an, the resilience of traditional retail sectors such as convenience stores and supermarket cannot be overlooked as these continue to play a crucial role in people’s daily lives.  The PRA Cebu chapter could serve as an inspiration to other chapters by setting standards of excellence, championing innovation, embracing sustainability, and demonstrating the true spirit of Cebuano resilience to make a meaningful difference.

The new set of officers also included James Co, Vice President for Business Development; May Tan Go, Vice President for Membership; Jay Fernandez, Vice President for Ways and Means; Camille Aldeguer, Vice President for Finance; Jane Ong, Secretary/Treasurer; Robert L. Go, Chairman of the Board; and Chester A. Lim; Immediate Past President.

“In closing, allow me to say that the journey ahead of us will undoubtedly be filled with trials and triumphs. But as long as we stand together, as long as we remember our shared purpose, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. I am genuinely excited to embark on this journey with each of you,” Paro-an concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman)