With its unique mix of local shoppers and tourists, Cebu is ready to redefine its own luxury scene.
Cebu has always been known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and thriving local scene. And, now, it’s adding a new title to the list: luxury fashion destination.
With the opening of The Mall at Nustar, Cebu has entered the high-end retail game, thanks to the SSI Group’s move to bring some of the world’s most iconic brands such as Givenchy, Kenzo, Loewe and Versace to the Queen City of the South. Cebu. With its unique mix of local shoppers and tourists, Cebu is more than ready to redefine its own luxury scene.
and Liz Uy in Versace
As the Philippines’ largest specialty retailer, SSI Group has spent years turning Manila into a major shopping hub. But this latest expansion into Cebu represents a fresh chapter.
SSI Group President Anton Huang explains what makes Cebu so compelling. “Cebu has a big tourism customer base, which I guess is something different from Manila,” he says. “In Manila, we cater to the local Filipino clientele, which we’ve been focused on and have always relied upon over the past years. Cebu is a new opportunity for us to serve not only the local Cebuanos but likewise the tourists that visit the city.”
With Cebu’s tourism boom—up 47.2% in 2022—The Mall | Nustar is ideally positioned to draw in not just locals but international travelers who crave a luxury shopping experience. The Mall’s location is accessible and central, offering a modern shopping destination that reflects Cebu’s new status as a major player in the Philippine retail scene.
Let’s have a quick tour
The Mall brings a carefully curated fashion experience to Cebu, with each boutique’s offerings. Givenchy’s space is dressed in muted gray tones, showcasing the brand’s Fall-Winter 2024 collection, including its famed Voyou and Antigone Cube bags.
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Kenzo’s boutique is an entirely different vibe—playful, bold, and youthful. Designed under the creative eye of NIGO, the space features red locker-inspired shelves, bright Boke flower accents, and anodized aluminum fixtures.
Loewe’s Casa Loewe concept brings a warm, homey feel, inspired by Spanish artistry. From wool rugs and ceramic tiles to curated art pieces, every detail in Loewe’s boutique feels carefully thought out.
Related story: Loewe’s S/S25 collection is a seamless blend of creativity and practicality
Versace, of course, brings the Italian flair it’s known for. With marble Greca motifs, plush velvet seating, and bold patterns, it’s a space that celebrates the classic Versace luxury, fitting perfectly into Cebu’s evolving fashion scene.
Related story: Versace’s S/S 2025 collection is a joyful clash of prints and nostalgia
Laureen Uy in Loewe belted shirt in pink
and squeeze mini pug bag in olive
The opening of these boutiques was more than a retail event; it was a style celebration featuring style icons like Nadine Lustre, Sofia Andres, BJ Pascual, Liz Uy, Laureen Uy, Verniece Enciso, Kryz Uy, Gabby Garcia, and Michelle Dee among others.
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Why Cebu’s growth makes it the perfect luxury destination
According to a 2023 report from Santos Knight Frank, Cebu has become the Philippines’ second-most-visited destination, with tourism climbing as the city moves past the challenges of recent years. This blend of accessibility and economic potential makes Cebu a natural choice for luxury brands.
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The high-end shopping experience
Gone are the days of simple retail. Here, shopping is about stepping into the world of each brand, receiving a level of service that makes each visit feel curated and personal. SSI Group’s expansion into Cebu raises the bar for local retail, transforming shopping into an art form.
