Starmobile expands retail distributors

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino mobile phone manufacturer Star Telecom Alliance Resources Inc. is expanding the retail distribution of its Starmobile feature phones by including sari-sari stores and loading stations to reach underserved markets.

In a statement, the company said the Starmobile feature phones will be available in over 20 sari-sari stores and loading stations in Metro Manila, Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga within the month.

The move is expected to help increase the company’s sales.

“In 2014, Starmobile became the first phone brand to enter into convenience store distribution when it forged a partnership with 7-Eleven. Now, Starmobile devices are available in many of their branches, whether over the counter, through their multi-channel CLIQQ store on Google Play and the Apple App Store, or their electronic kiosks and catalogs in-stores,” said Starmobile sales and marketing head Gerardo Balderrama.

“This year, we continue to reach new frontiers in retail as we enter into sari-sari store distribution, again becoming the first tech brand to explore this channel in the Philippines,” he added.

As the country has over a million sari-sari stores, the company expects to penetrate underserved markets, especially in the provinces.

“By also going into sari-sari stores, we are able to fulfill our mission of making technology more inclusive, from product, pricing, and distribution standpoints,” Balderrama said.

While Starmobile is a local brand, he said the phones could compete with international brands in terms of performance and durability.

Starmobile phones which comply with international industry certifications, are assembled in a factory in Calamba, Laguna.