Women sari-sari store owners in the Philippines are gaining independence and social status through their micro-retail businesses, according to a study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and tech startup Packworks.
The study, “Gender, Microentrepreneurship, Human Flourishing: Exploring the Experiences of Women Sari-Sari Store Owners toward Inclusive Growth,” highlights how managing sari-sari stores boosts women’s confidence, financial independence, and leadership roles in their communities.
The study surveyed hundreds of female sari-sari store owners in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON between May and June 2024. Most respondents (90%) are married with dependents, 78% contribute to their household income, 16% serve as breadwinners, and 6% are single mothers.
Survey participants expressed that running a sari-sari store gave them a sense of purpose and identity. “I can buy things for myself, my kid, and my family now… I am not just a housewife anymore,” shared one participant. “Because of my store, I am now busy with other things apart from taking care of my family. I feel more fulfilled.”
Women owners also reported higher social status, with customers addressing them respectfully as “ma’am” or “boss.” The study noted that those displaying leadership traits such as empathy and collaboration experienced greater well-being, resilience, and optimism.
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“This research underscores the resilience and transformative power of women sari-preneurs in the Philippines,” said Packworks CEO Bing Tan. “By supporting them, we are strengthening the social fabric of the nation.”
Packworks’ Lead Data Scientist Joanne Diaz noted that 75% of sari-sari stores are owned by women, underscoring their significant control over the local economy. “Through our business intelligence tool Sari IQ, we are able to highlight that Filipinas are key drivers of the micro-retail sector,” Diaz said.
Packworks supports over 300,000 sari-sari stores nationwide with digital tools for pricing, inventory management, and sales tracking. The platform also provides access to working capital, product promotions, and rewards to help women entrepreneurs succeed.
👉 Discover more about how sari-sari store owners are driving community empowerment by checking out our Good MSME stories!
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