YOU may have heard of Apo ni Lola as a "pasalubong hub" in Davao City, but there is more to this homegrown brand than just durian candies, tarts, and otaps.
Considering today's devastating effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Apo ni Lola sees an opportunity to grow and innovate.
"We aim to reposition Apo ni Lola brand as not just for 'pasalubongs' for tourists but also for Dabawenyos who want to enjoy food at home or anywhere," Apo ni Lola marketing officer Katrina Velasco said.
With the rebranding in time for its 20th anniversary, Apo ni Lola introduced on June 3 its pastry brand called Durian House.
Durian House by Apo ni Lola initially offers mouth-watering pastry and drink products made especially for both tourists and locals with the Davao flavor -- Durian -- in the center.
Durian House launched four combo sets: Durian cappuccino and one slice durian pie at P250; Durian shake and a box of durian piaya at P235; Durian Mocha Fudge and a pack of durian macaroons at P265; and Durian Cappuccino and a pack of durian hopia at P235.
"These sweet delights can be enjoyed by anyone at the comforts of their homes because we offer free delivery within Davao City with no minimum amount of purchase," Velasco shared.
This means, even if you order only one combo from the southernmost or northernmost part of the city, expect Durian House to deliver your order.
At present, Durian House has an in-house delivery services, however the management is planning to partner with other delivery services companies soon.
"They can just take their orders in our social media accounts or contact our landline and mobile numbers. We normally ask for the customer's name, exact address, and contact details," Velasco explained.
She added that they currently only have cash on delivery (COD) mode of payment but are intending to venture to cashless transactions.
She also said customers can mix and match the pre-set combos to their preferences but prices may vary depending on the product.
From tourists-focused to locals-driven
Before the pandemic, Apo ni Lola was heavily dependent on tourism as 99 percent of its production is tourists-consumed.
"Like any other businesses, we are really affected. But we must keep going and the pandemic made us shift our focus to the local market, hence, the Durian House," Velasco said.
She compared that if before they normally welcomed five batches of buses or vans daily, now they only cater to some 10 customers in their physical store in San Miguel Village, Matina.
Apart from its main store in Matina, Apo ni Lola has also reopened its Ayala Abreeza Mall outlet on June 4. Other outlets - Apo View Hotel, Royal Mandaya Hotel, The Ritz Garden Oases, and The Pinnacle Hotel, remain close until further notice.
"Durian House by Apo ni Lola's tagline is - We make life sweet, just like home. And we intend to keep this promise by serving quality products to our customers both locals and tourists even amidst the pandemic," Velasco said.
For orders, check Apo ni Lola on Facebook and Instagram or contact them through telephone (082) 298 -5099 ) and mobile phone (09204103333; 09334888911; 09177288768).