SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (stock: SMPH), one of the leading property developers in the country and a subsidiary of SM Investments Corporation (stock: SM), continues to broaden its reach in the Visayas region. Inspired by the vibrant culture and aesthetics of Japan, SM City J Mall features stunning Japanese-inspired designs, including life-sized anime characters. It aims to transport visitors to the Land of the Rising Sun while enjoying a diverse range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Opening its doors on October 25, 2024, this four-level mall located along A.S. Fortuna Street in Barangay Bakilid, Mandaue City, is expected to attract both residents and tourists with its diverse retail, dining, and entertainment offerings.
SM Prime’s investment in SM City J Mall underscores the company’s confidence in the economic potential of Central Visayas, which recorded a 7.3% growth in 2023 according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)—the highest among the country’s 17 regions. This is SM Prime’s fourth mall in Metro Cebu, eighth in the Visayas region, and 87th across the Philippines.
Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime, highlighted the company’s strategic focus on high-growth areas: “The opening of SM City J Mall reflects our confidence in the robust economic growth of Central Visayas. This new mall is designed to cater to the increasing demand for premium commercial and lifestyle experiences in Mandaue City.”
Mandaue City is recognized as a first-class highly urbanized area, serving as the industrial hub of Central Visayas with over 10,000 industrial and commercial establishments. The city’s strong industrial base and growing middle class make it a prime location for retail investments, with SM City J Mall set to become a key destination for both commerce and leisure.
SM City J Mall offers over 100,000 square meters of gross floor area (GFA) with approximately 80% of its gross leasable area pre-leased. The mall’s anchor tenants include familiar names like The SM Store, SM Hypermarket, Watsons, Uniqlo, Levi’s, and Ace Hardware. In addition to retail, the mall brings a unique lifestyle element to Mandaue City, with two Director’s Club cinemas, a curated Food Hall, and several wellness and lifestyle services designed to enhance customer experiences. Among its many attractions, the mall features the Izakaya Terrace, where visitors can indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine ranging from savory ramen and sushi to sweet mochi and matcha. For entertainment, a state-of-the-art cinema will screen popular films and anime, while family-friendly activities, including arcades and karaoke, add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, emphasized the unique offering of the mall: “SM J Mall is a multifaceted destination that goes beyond just shopping. It provides a mix of fresh dining options, interactive entertainment, and premium services suited to the urban Cebuano lifestyle.”
The new SM City J Mall is not just another shopping center—it aims to be a lifestyle hub for the growing Cebu market. Among its many attractions are:
- Izakaya Terrace, an al fresco Japanese dining area blending traditional and modern elements, perfect for casual dining and cocktails.
- A nest-inspired Food Hall, offering local Cebuano dishes alongside international cuisine.
- Recreational spaces that include boulder climbing, escape rooms, virtual game simulators, and a roller-skating rink.
- Two luxurious Director’s Club cinemas, offering an elevated movie experience with laser projection, Dolby Atmos sound, and reclining seats.
These amenities are designed to cater to a wide range of audiences, from foodies and adventure seekers to families and wellness enthusiasts, making SM City J Mall a go-to destination in Mandaue City.
As part of SM Prime’s broader strategy, the new mall in Mandaue aims to drive economic progress by offering premium commercial spaces and boosting local employment. The mall is expected to generate significant business activity in the area, creating new jobs and supporting local suppliers and retailers.
Lim further emphasized the importance of the company’s expansion strategy: “Our expansion into thriving regional hubs like Mandaue City is integral to our goal of delivering sustainable value to our stakeholders while contributing to economic development across the Philippines.”
SM Prime Holdings continues to lead the way in the Philippine retail sector, with plans to open two additional malls by year-end: SM City San Fernando La Union and SM City Laoag. By 2027, SM aims to operate a total of 100 malls across the country, further cementing its position as the dominant player in the industry.
With the opening of SM City J Mall, SM Prime strengthens its commitment to fostering growth in regional centers while enhancing the shopping and lifestyle experiences of Filipinos across the country. With its unique blend of Japanese culture and modern amenities, SM City J Mall is set to become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists, further enriching the shopping and lifestyle experiences in Mandaue City.