Safeway, one of the largest food and drug retailers based on sales in the United States is eyeing the Philippines as a strategic destination to expand its global operations, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

The opportunities in the business outsourcing industry sector that can add significant value to the global operation of Safeway was also cited as reason of the expansion plans.

Safeway’s top-rank executives are said to be bullish about their investments in the country, following a due diligence conducted in February in connection to their plans of expanding its business and operatiosn in the Philippines.

Safeway is a Fortune 100 company that operates 1,641 stores in North America and Canada. Part of its strategy is to provide a unique shopping experience with a wide selection of high quality products at low prices.

The DTI statement added: “In support of its stores, Safeway maintains an extensive network of distribution, manufacturing, and food processing facilities. It also has business interests in the online internet grocer, prepaid gift cards, and financial services.”

The company entered the country since 2003 through an affiliate, the Safeway Philtech, which serves as its captive technology center. Its affiliate provides services such as application support and maintenance, application development and enhancements, technology and infrastructure support.

According to the Trade Department, Safeway Philtech has partnered with the Board of Investments and leaders of the BPO sector in organizing the visit of the top company executives to the Philippines.

Source: http://business.inquirer.net/109887/fortune-100-firm-to-expand-ph-operations