Karaoke brand Red Box ‘doing well’ in Cebu

CEBUANOS’ love for singing helped a karaoke brand thrive in Cebu, officials said.

Although they are not opening new branches this year, Red Box Philippines still hopes to increase its presence in Cebu and in other key cities in the country.

Armada Entertainment Inc. managing director Allen Arvin Tan told reporters last Friday that they are considering new malls in Cebu for possible expansion although there are no firm plans yet.

“Red Box is location-dependent. It survives in areas where there is high foot traffic, preferably in malls. So we are looking at opportunities given the new malls that will be set up here in the future,” Tan said.

Armada Entertainment Inc. is a Cebu-based company that brought Red Box to Cebu in 2010. The expansion is in partnership with Red Box Philippines.

Last Friday, the company introduced TV personality Judah Paolo as the new general manager of Red Box Philippines.

Paolo said the company plans to branch out in every major city in the country like Cagayan de Oro and Davao. He is also considering expanding the business through franchising.

Red Box currently has four branches, three of which are located in Metro Manila.

Tan said they are happy with the performance of their Cebu branch.

The bulk of their clients comes from the corporate market such as business process outsourcing companies. They also get a good share of the family and group market, especially during special occasions.

“Although we are in the premium segment, we are able to compete well with other players because we have given our clients an added value for money and experience,” said Tan. “At first, (people were) afraid and intimidated but when they come in they are happy with the experience.”