User:Philretailers

Introduction
The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) first came into being as the Chamber of Philippine Department Stores and Retailers, Inc. (CPDSRI) in 1976. In 1991, after winning the bid to host the 6th Asian Retailers Conference and Expo, the bi-annual event of the Federation of Asian Retail Associations (FARA), the Chamber changed its name into Philippine Retailers Association and adopted the now famous shopping bag logo.

Today, PRA has matured into a dynamic association with over 300 member companies, covering the gamut of the distribution chain, in its fold --- from retailers, mall and shopping center operators to traders/suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers, among others.

The retail industry is an important contributor to the Philippine economy as it accounts for roughly 15% of the country’s total Gross National Product (GNP) and 33% of the entire services sector. It employs some 5.25 Million people, representing a significant 18% of the country’s work force, which means roughly 2 of every ten (10) workers is employed in the retail industry. Recognized as a paragon of a genuine partner in nation building, the PRA enjoys the distinction as the “Pulse and Voice of the Philippine Retail Industry.”

International Recognition
At the time when the country was still reeling from the negative impact of the energy crisis in 1993, the PRA embarked on an ambitious tourism-oriented international project to bring to the country more than 1,500 foreign businessmen and retailers. The 6th Asian Retailers Convention and Exhibition (6th ARCE), bidded for and hosted by the PRA, was the culmination of more than two years of planning and preparation to convince foreigners to come to the Philippines and see for themselves that the country is still a tourism haven in spite of the power crisis. This monumental effort won for the PRA the prestigious KALAKBAY Award (National Tourism Award) for “Event of the Year” for organizing and hosting the 6th ARCE.

Regional Growth Date
To date, the PRA has not only widened its membership base nationwide but it also established effective representation from industry members all over the country. By embarking on a regional outreach program, the PRA has enabled retailers in the regions to avail of the benefits of membership. Through the establishment of provincial chapters, the PRA is able to approach the problems and issues facing retailers all over the country with a more unified, comprehensive, and coordinated response.

PRA Vision
PRA as a world-class organization shall empower and guide members to attain global competitiveness and make the retail industry a significant contributor to, and driving force of Philippine economic development.

PRA Mission

 * 1) To provide members with benefits through the use of common services, trade information and other facilities that may be established through PRA’s efforts;
 * 2) To effectively represent the collective interest of members with government and relevant private organizations for the adoption and implementation of policies and programs conducive to the industry’s growth and development;
 * 3) To increase opportunities for members to become globally competitive.
 * 4) To support the members’ efforts to expand globally.
 * 5) To encourage members to become socially responsible and contribute towards the country’s socio-economic development.
 * 6) To make the members aware of how they can help protect the environment.
 * 7) To take a pro-active role in the direction of the Federation of Asian-Pacific Retailers Association (FAPRA)
 * 8) To strengthen PRA’s regional organization.
 * 9) To foster unity among members