From threads to treasures: How LIVE selling grew a local jewelry business

From threads to treasures: How LIVE selling grew a local jewelry business

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Transitioning from ready-to-wear (RTW) garments to gold jewelry marked a significant shift for MJM Gold Jewelry. However, it was their venture into TikTok Shop last year that truly propelled the company to new heights. 

Jane Marella, owner, and CEO of MJM Gold Jewelry, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2014. Recognizing the shifting market dynamics, Jane pivoted her business to focus on crafting exquisite gold jewelry, thus laying the foundation for MJM Gold Jewelry's success.

Leveraging TikTok Shop for Growth

Since joining TikTok Shop in February 2023, MJM Gold Jewelry has undergone a notable transformation. "The reach we achieved with the TikTok community is on a different level — MJM gained nationwide recognition, which we hadn't been able to achieve before," shared Jane. 

Central to MJM Gold Jewelry's success on TikTok Shop is its authentic engagement with the platform's audience. Jane emphasizes genuine connection, treating customers as friends and engaging in meaningful conversations. This approach has fostered a sense of community around the brand, enhancing brand loyalty and customer engagement.

Maximizing Live Selling Capabilities

MJM Gold Jewelry capitalized on TikTok Shop's live selling capabilities, which played a key role in their growth. According to Jane, TikTok streamlined the process for live selling and made it more efficient for sellers. With its broad market reach and extensive viewer base, TikTok provided MJM Gold Jewelry with a seamless platform to engage with its audience and showcase its collection of gold necklaces, earrings, and bracelets on live streams.

Continuing to utilize TikTok Shop's features, MJM Gold Jewelry saw substantial progress. With a 39% Compound Monthly Growth Rate (CMGR) in livestream sales, their live sessions became must-watch events, driving sales and excitement among consumers.

As MJM Gold Jewelry's reputation grew, so did its sales figures. From February 2023 to February 2024, the brand observed a significant increase in Daily Active Gross Merchandise Value (DAGMV) with a staggering 54.8x uplift. This uptick in sales reflected the brand's ability to adapt and thrive in the digital landscape.

Empowering Local Businesses on TikTok Shop

"With the help of TikTok Shop, we're able to join campaigns and receive support, as our live sessions, short videos, and products are highlighted there. TikTok Shop is the number one commerce platform here in the Philippines. So, we must keep up because, for us, TikTok has been the way to uplift our business. Our business made a complete 360-degree turn," according to Jane. 

As MJM Gold Jewelry continues to thrive on TikTok Shop, its success story offers valuable insights for local businesses, showcasing the potential for sustainable e-commerce growth through strategic engagement and authenticity on the platform.

To experience the collection of gold neckaces, earrings, and bracelets firsthand, visit MJM Gold Jewelry's TikTok Shop storefront here.

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UnionBank Wealth Management Ignites 2024 with Dynamic Strategies for Scaling Wealth

UnionBank Wealth Management Ignites 2024 with Dynamic Strategies for Scaling Wealth

Friday, April 19, 2024

 

This 2024, Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) Wealth Management is doubling down on its commitment to helping you scale your wealth to success through expert and global investment insights that enable you to make the best move.

Make the most of the promising year as UnionBank Wealth Management empowers you so you can unlock prosperity like never before through solutions offered only by the best in the industry—from wealth management offered by a team of experts, to convenient banking that can be tailored to your needs.

UnionBank Access and UnionBank Elite 

For those at the beginning of their wealth journey, UnionBank Access is the perfect service. Customers in the Access program: get VIP treatment with priority queueing at UnionBank Wealth Branches, get preferential foreign exchange rates (for travel or investment purposes), have exclusive time-deposit rates, enjoy free ATM withdrawals with higher transaction limits (in country and abroad), can enjoy cross-border fund transfers via UnionBank Online, and can link multiple deposit accounts to their UnionBank Access debit card.

UnionBank Elite customers, on the other hand, enjoy the service of a team of wealth experts providing holistic support comprised of: a Service Banker, Wealth Acquisition Officer, Investment Specialist, and Insurance Specialist to provide insights and guidance that will help keep them on track to meet their financial goals. UnionBank Wealth Elite customers are able to access Global Investment products without opening off-shore accounts, have free international ATM withdrawals, and can transfer cross-border funds to any account in the world with no outgoing fees.

Exclusive market outlook events

The UnionBank Wealth Management leveled-up banking experience grants you access to exclusive events tailored to enrich your partnership with the Bank. Most recently, UnionBank Wealth Management hosted two highly successful market outlook events in Metro Manila and Cebu. The events were meticulously crafted to offer clients invaluable insights and discern trends, empowering them to make well-informed financial decisions.

During the events, UnionBank Wealth Management’s two global fund house partners presented the latest financial shifts and prospects around the world. Christopher Wong and Liao Shuangwei from Fidelity International provided investment insights on enduring megatrends, emerging markets like India, and taking the defensive approach through less volatile sectors. Michelle Leung, from Allianz Global Investments, articulated ways to navigate in a dynamic landscape, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across industries, and other opportunities in new markets such as Japan. 

Event host Issa Litton and UnionBank Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (UFSI) President and CEO Ramon Tejero led a panel discussion with the fund house speakers to elaborate on the topics presented and entertain questions from the attending Elite and Access program members in the audience.

With the growth of the wealth business since UnionBank’s acquisition, you can expect better quality of service and support from experts who are actively finding new ways to raise the bar and make your every transaction meaningful.

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LE PONT RESIDENCES: Pioneering Sustainable Living with EDGE Advanced Certification

LE PONT RESIDENCES: Pioneering Sustainable Living with EDGE Advanced Certification

RLC Residences receives EDGE Advanced Preliminary Certification for Le Pont Residences. EDGE EAP Communications and Marketing Coordinator and Building Resilience Index Global Team Specialist Pearl Mars (4th from left) joins the RLC Residences Team during the ceremony. (From L to R) Brand Management and Operations Head Dan Carlo Torres, Business Development Assistant Manager Vida Ventura, AVP and Business Development and Design Head Stephanie Anne Go, Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer Karen Cesario, and Business Development Senior Director Czarina Lugue.

 

RLC Residences recently recorded a new milestone for Le Pont Residences as the development received an EDGE Advanced preliminary certification from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The prestigious certification recognizes the developer’s commitment to sustainable development and its leadership in creating a more resource-efficient future.

“Imagine coming home to a beautiful, well-designed condo where you will be greeted by natural light streaming through energy-efficient windows. Picture an open space landscaped with plants within the condo where you can enjoy nature amidst the bustling city landscape. At home, see yourself as a homeowner who contributes to water conservation, thanks to water-saving fixtures installed in your unit. These and more are the things we had in mind when we designed Le Pont Residences, and we at RLC Residences are truly grateful to IFC for recognizing our efforts for sustainable living,” says Stephanie Anne Go, Assistant Vice President and Business Development and Design Head of RLC Residences.

EDGE is a green building standard and certification system that evaluates various developments across the globe. Operating under the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC), EDGE is an initiative that aims to empower developers to build sustainable properties through cost-effective yet environment-friendly means while delivering high-quality buildings.

First EDGE-Certified Condominium of RLC Residences

Launched in January 2023, Le Pont Residences is RLC Residences’ premium development located inside Bridgetowne Destination Estate at Pasig City. Apart from its prime features, the property is designed with various energy and water efficiency measures in place along with sustainability features future homeowners will soon enjoy - making it a qualified recipient of the coveted EDGE certification.

Le Pont Residences is set to have its own rainwater harvesting system within the development, a sustainable feature that will collect and recycle rainwater for non-potable use such as watering of landscaped areas. Inside, common areas and even condo units will have water-efficiency fixtures installed - from showerheads, and faucets to water closets and bidets - all aiming to help conserve water usage within the development. With these features present in the development, Le Pont Residences is evaluated to achieve 34.66% savings in terms of water consumption. 

As for energy features, Le Pont Residences will have efficient lighting in both internal and external areas. Additionally, a well-shaded building facade, ample green landscaped areas, and well-insulated roof and walls will be implemented to help minimize heat without relying too much on cooling systems. As for the parking areas, sensors will be installed to monitor levels of carbon monoxide that will aid in using the car park ventilation system whenever needed while maintaining a good parking area environment. All these measures will contribute to 45.37% energy savings - based on the evaluation certified for by IFC’s local partner, the Philippine Green Building Initiative (PGBI).

“We believe in creating homes that reflect the values and lifestyle of our homeowners, while also keeping in mind the impact of our projects on the environment. Le Pont Residences is one of the projects that brings to life this philosophy, where we've thoughtfully blended sustainable features into every aspect of our clients’ everyday life. We are optimistic that having these features will empower more home seekers to live sustainably, and we're constantly seeking new ways to design homes that are as kind to the planet as they are to you," ends Go.

For more information about Le Pont Residences, visit rlcresidences.com or follow RLC Residences on Facebook and Instagram.

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QBO, ITC, DTI, Propel Filipino Startups onto the Global Stage through ARISE Plus Philippines

QBO, ITC, DTI, Propel Filipino Startups onto the Global Stage through ARISE Plus Philippines

Twelve Filipino youth-led startups were unveiled during the kickoff event, marking the beginning of a transformative journey as they go on a 14-week training program designed to bring their business towards international success.

The Arise Plus Philippines Young Entrepreneurs (YE)! Boost Accelerator Program, funded by the European Union and led by the International Trade Centre, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry - Competitiveness Innovation Group (DTI-CIG) and QBO Innovation Hub, has just launched its 3rd Cohort. Twelve Filipino youth-led startups were unveiled during the kickoff event, marking the beginning of a transformative journey as they go on a 14-week training program designed to bring their business towards international success.

Arise Plus Ye! Boost Accelerator Program gathers young entrepreneurs under 35, preparing them to learn the tools and resources necessary to thrive in today's competitive market. With a focus on going from local to global, this program seeks to empower startups to scale their ventures beyond borders and make a remarkable impact on the international stage.

Through strategic partnerships facilitated by QBO, ITC, and DTI-CIG, the twelve participating startups will gain access to comprehensive training, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities. These initiatives aim to prepare them to meet the challenges of the global market, positioning them for sustainable business growth and investor readiness in the global market.

The 12 handpicked startups participating in the Arise Plus Ye! Boost Accelerator Program Cohort 3 represents a diverse range of industries—from technology, sustainability, to healthcare, and beyond:

BCRemit: A London-based fintech company founded by Pinoys empowering OFWs with efficient money transfers.

PAMMÉ: A fashion brand crafting sustainable accessories from recycled plastic, made by women deprived of liberty.

Mylo Speech Buddy: Developer of a speech development app for children with autism and speech delay.

Hibla Philippines: A social enterprise preserving Philippine weaving traditions.

Nama Urban Farms: An urban agriculture startup cultivating nutritious produce.

Capilli: A social enterprise creating eco-friendly products from upcycled human hair waste.

REPAMANA: A circular fashion brand repurposing hotel textiles into new garments.

Nutricoach Inc.: A platform aiding dietitians in building and scaling nutrition clinics.

Reelist8: A PropTech x Shoppertainment marketplace for real estate transactions.

Prezenter: A company that simplifies presentations in under 10 seconds, helping teachers put their lessons on Smart TVs.

TERPCAP INC: An accessibility solutions provider for inclusive workplaces.

IndieCo: An SEO company blending human creativity with AI for business content.

QBO Innovation Hub boasts a great pool of over 50 experts spanning various industries, offering support and guidance to the startups throughout the program. These mentors are well-equipped to train the entrepreneurs to address a wide range of challenges and opportunities they may encounter.

"For the next 14 weeks, our startups will be immersed in a transformative journey of mentorship and workshops, equipping them to create wealth and enhance the lives of their employees. At QBO and IdeaSpace, we're committed to building a community where innovation thrives and drives societal impact," said Butch Meily, President of QBO and IdeaSpace.

“I know that your energy, passion, and ideas can really shape the future of trade in the Philippines.” shared by Mayara Louzada, Head of Youth & Trade Programme of ITC. We encourage you to take advantage of the top notch mentorship, training, and linkages that you will be getting through this accelerator program,” Louzada added.

"We are thrilled to embark on this journey with the exceptional entrepreneurs selected for Arise Cohort 3," said Miguel Lopez, National Youth Entrepreneurship Lead for the ITC. "We believe in the power of profound support and a great foundation. Through initiatives like Arise, we are committed to harnessing the strengths of our Filipino startups to help them reach the European market and champion their journey towards global success,” Lopez added.

To know more about QBO Innovation Hub and ARISE Cohort 3, please visit www.qbo.com.ph. Follow @QBOPhilippines to stay tuned for updates on upcoming learning sessions on Intellectual Property (IP), Investment Readiness, and more! Gear up for an enriching experience as the program kicks into high gear in the coming weeks.

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Dermorepubliq Revealed as Mysterious 'D' Behind Viral Billboard that raked 30 million views online

Dermorepubliq Revealed as Mysterious 'D' Behind Viral Billboard that raked 30 million views online

Dermorepubliq, TikTok Shop Philippines' top skincare brand, has stepped forward as the mastermind behind the viral billboard along C5 Southbound in Libis, Quezon City, which has sparked intrigue from an estimated 30 million social media users with its heartfelt plea to salvage relationships.

The billboard, featuring the message "Wag na tayo mag-break, please" (Let's not break up, please) and signed with the initial "D," initially sparked speculation among netizens. Celebrity actors like Daniel Padilla and Dominic Roque were swiftly linked to the campaign, given their recent public breakups, fueling further speculation about the identity of "D."

The original video that went viral was posted by social media influencer Gifer Fernandez, garnering nearly 20 million views and thousands of reactions, comments, and shares on Facebook alone.

Dermorepubliq's revelation sheds light on the creative campaign behind the emotional appeal. The message was crafted as part of the launch campaign for Dermorepubliq's latest skincare innovation, the 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid serum, which joins the local skincare brand’s meticulously curated range of 28 products.

The newly replaced billboard, situated in the same location, now bears the message, “Sabi ni D, breakout no more sa tulong ni Dermorepubliq with regular use of 5% Niacinamide." (D says, no more breakout with the help of Dermorepubliq with regular use of 5% Niacinamide.)

This breakthrough serum aims to innovate skincare routines by addressing common concerns such as breakouts, blemishes, pore refinement, hydration, and oil regulation. Positioned as an essential addition to any skincare regimen, the serum offers gentle yet effective solutions for individuals seeking radiant and flawless skin.

Keith Sta. Barbara, President and Founder of Dermorepubliq, said, "The unveiling of Dermorepubliq as the force behind the viral billboard narrative underscores our commitment to creativity and innovation in the skincare industry." He emphasized the brand's dedication to providing science-based products that cater to the diverse needs of consumers.

Sta. Barbara added, "Our mission at Dermorepubliq is to empower individuals to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. We believe that skincare should be accessible to all and that our products offer effective solutions for a wide range of skin concerns."

As speculation continues to swirl, Dermorepubliq invites the public to uncover the story behind the billboard's emotive plea and explore its range of innovative skincare products.

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GS1 Standards Week 2024 to showcase latest advancements in barcode technology, global push for shift from barcode to QR code

GS1 Standards Week 2024 to showcase latest advancements in barcode technology, global push for shift from barcode to QR code

GS1 Philippines, the leading organization on local barcode standards, is set to join industry experts and stakeholders in supply chain and digital transformation for a global discussion on the latest barcode technology and the push for the transition from the traditional linear barcode to the 2D QR code during this year’s GS1 Standards Week 2024, which will take place from April 23 to 26, 2024 Philippine time.

This three-day virtual gathering will welcome over 5,000 member organizations from GS1 Philippines and numerous partners of GS1 around the world. Attendees can expect a series of informative sessions that will cover a range of industries, including retail, marketplaces, consumer packaged goods, fresh foods, healthcare, and transport and logistics, showcasing the latest barcode innovations.

A key highlight at the GS1 Standards Week 2024 will be the opening plenary session focused on the global push for the adoption of the 2D barcode, most popularly known as the "QR code." The next generation of barcodes will leverage web technologies and the current barcode system to store extensive product information in just one scan, promising limitless possibilities set to further improve operational efficiency in the supply chain industries and benefit brand owners, retailers, and consumers.

By 2027, GS1 Philippines aims to have prepared all sectors nationwide for a complete transition to 2D barcodes, anticipating that all global retail POS scanners will be equipped to read and process these advanced codes, supported by widespread adoption among brand owners.

"GS1 Standards Week 2024 marks a transformative milestone in our mission to drive the global supply chain industry forward. Amid rapid technological advancements, we are spearheading a new era of digital integration where enhanced barcode connectivity significantly boosts efficiency and sustainability worldwide. Join us as we chart the course for tomorrow's industry standards, celebrating groundbreaking innovations that are reshaping how the world does business," said Roberto "Bobby" Claudio, President of GS1 Philippines and the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA).

In addition to exploring the global shift to 2D barcodes, GS1 Standards Week 2024 will offer a comprehensive agenda that includes deep dives into the latest updates and features of GS1's standards. These discussions aim to assist businesses in complying with international standards and requirements crucial for the circular economy. 

Furthermore, the event will feature GS1's Global Standards Management Process (GSMP) working group sessions, designed to unite thought leaders from various sectors globally. These sessions will delve into cutting-edge, industry-wide standards, guidelines, and solutions, providing valuable insights for attendees.

With a strong lineup of leading experts from GS1 and other influential figures in the industry, the event promises to foster a collaborative environment aimed at revolutionizing retail supply chains through internationally recognized barcode technologies.

With its current 5,000 member organizations, GS1 Philippines is eyeing to reach 30,000 businesses nationwide by the end of 2024.

To learn more about GS1 Standards Week 2024 and register, you may visit the event's official website.

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PRUBabies receives back-to-back international awards

PRUBabies receives back-to-back international awards

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Pru Life UK's free insurance coverage for newborns lauded for making protection accessible to more Filipino families

PRUBabies, Pru Life UK's free insurance coverage against select infectious diseases for newborns, bagged Silver and Bronze Stevie® Awards for Community Relations/Public Service Communications and Innovative Achievement in Diversity & Inclusion, respectively.

As a testament to the company's commitment to driving financial inclusion in the country, Pru Life UK offered 175,000 free vouchers of PRUMedCare – Select Infectious Diseases coverage for newborns from 7 days to 11 months old, helping parents protect their newborns against the cost of getting sick from any of the covered four infectious diseases – Dengue, Typhoid, Measles and Malaria. 

“Daghang salamat Pru Life UK. Dahil sa inyo, nabigyan ng libreng proteksyon ang aking baby,” shares Jeresa Caranoo, mother from Bantayan Island, Cebu who received free insurance for her child. 

Through PRUBabies, parents can receive cash assistance for the diagnosis and death of newborns due to any of the four covered diseases. The Department of Health has warned the public to watch out for the four covered diseases, particularly during summer. 

The leading life insurer distributed free vouchers across the country through Pru Life UK’s 42,000-strong agency force and the support of local government units, non-government organizations (NGOs) and hospitals – NGO Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) for Bantayan Island, Cebu and Parañaque City; The CSR arm of FirstGen Corp. for its host communities in Batangas City; St. Scholastica’s Formation House in Tagaytay City; Philippine Medical Association-Calamba for Dr. Jose P. Rizal District Hospital in Calamba, Laguna; Rotary Club of Mandaluyong-Biyaya for the Grace to Be Born Shelter in Pasig City; Microfinance NGO Tulay sa Pag-unlad Inc. (TSPI) in Makati; Office of Palawan Board Member Anton Alvarez and the Mayor’s Office of Taytay for Taytay, Palawan, Rotary Club of Mandaluyong and Mandaluyong City government for the Mandaluyong City Medical Center, Manila City government for Tondo, Manila, and Barangay Council of Tandang Sora for Barangay Tandang Sora in Quezon City.

A combined financial literacy and climate & health session was also conducted for the families in Palawan, the only province in the Philippines with known malaria cases. 

“PRUBabies is one of the many ways we make life insurance more accessible to more Filipino families, including babies who deserve to be protected from birth. We are grateful to our like-minded partners for their support in reaching out to unserved and underserved communities in far-flung areas. With PRUBabies, we live up to our mission to be the most trusted partners for every life and protectors for every future of Filipino families,” shares Allan Tumbaga, Pru Life UK's Chief Customer and Marketing Officer.

The free coverage vouchers have been distributed in 2023. Filipinos who want to be continuously financially protected with PRUMedCare – Select Infectious Diseases can get it via Pulse app. They can also check the coverage details at www.prulifeuk.com.ph. 

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