<h2>Watsons: The Complete History of the Philippines' Biggest Health and Beauty Retailer</h2>
<p>
Watsons has become a household name in the Philippines. You will find it in nearly every SM mall, beside every grocery, and in almost every major city.
But how did this happen? And why did SM choose to partner with Watsons instead of Mercury Drug, the most established pharmacy chain in the country at the time?
</p>
<br>
<p>
In this episode of Brand Origins, we uncover the full history of Watsons in the Philippines and how it became one of SM's most powerful retail partners.
From its beginnings as A.S. Watson & Co. in 19th century Hong Kong, to its rapid expansion across Asia, to the critical partnership with SM Investments, this episode breaks down how the brand grew from a small apothecary into one of the largest health and beauty retailers in the world.
</p>
<br>
<p>
We explore how Watsons built its reputation for trust, accessibility, and convenience, and how SM's business strategy helped the brand dominate the Philippine market.
</p>
<br><br>
<h2>Timestamps</h2>
<p>00:00 – Intro</p><br>
<p>00:58 – Henry Sy's Vow to Crush Mercury Drug</p><br>
<p>02:40 – How Britain Took Hong Kong</p><br>
<p>06:49 – The Hong Kong Dispensary</p><br>
<p>07:55 – A.S. Watson's Rapid Growth</p><br>
<p>10:17 – Watsons Water</p><br>
<p>11:07 – Hong Kong and Whampoa Dock</p><br>
<p>11:23 – How Li Ka-Shing Acquired the Company</p><br>
<p>12:02 – Brands A.S. Watson Owns</p><br>
<p>14:20 – Watsons in the Philippines</p><br>
<p>15:08 – Watsons' Secret Cash Cow (Optimo)</p><br>
<p>18:39 – Watsons Pink</p><br>
<p>19:43 – Outro</p>
<br><br>
<h2>Sponsorships</h2>
<p>
Want your brand to be featured in future episodes?<br>
Visit <a href="https://chrisgarin.com">chrisgarin.com</a> for sponsorship opportunities, partnerships, or collaboration inquiries.
</p>
