What began as a small T-shirt store in 1987 has transformed into a global lifestyle powerhouse, thanks in part to a nearly four-decade partnership between Suyen Corporation, the company behind BENCH, and BDO Unibank, Inc.
From its early days as a simple depository client, Suyen’s relationship with BDO has expanded into a comprehensive partnership—covering credit lines, capital loans, co-branded products, construction financing, and supplier arrangements—that continues to fuel the brand’s rapid growth.
“From the very start, we recognized that partnering with a trusted bank was fundamental to the success of our business,” said Virgilio Lim of Suyen Corporation. “What began as a purely depository relationship has evolved into a partnership that supports our growth today.”
Now home to 18 Filipino brands and 42 international labels—including Aldo, Jo Malone, Charles & Keith, Paul Boulangerie, and Marugame—Suyen operates over 1,500 stores worldwide. Its expansion has been supported by BDO’s Cash Management Services, from payroll and deposit pick-up to nationwide POS integration across all BENCH/ outlets.
Bryan Lim added, “BDO has been a reliable partner in various aspects of our operations, supporting construction projects, providing capital, and streamlining systems to help us work more efficiently with suppliers and landlords.”
Suyen’s rise is embodied in Bench Tower, its 24-storey eco-friendly headquarters in Bonifacio Global City, designed to meet Green Mark and LEED Platinum standards. The landmark reflects both the group’s sustainable vision and the operational strength needed to scale its brands globally.
“Helping Filipino brands like Bench scale responsibly means more than business success,” said Charles Rodriguez, BDO EVP and Head of Institutional Banking Group. “Bench Tower reflects a long-term vision that goes beyond retail, and we at BDO remain committed to supporting Suyen as it showcases the best of the Philippines to the world, generates livelihood, and fosters innovation.”
Beyond retail, Suyen has become a builder of brands and a contributor to the nation’s cultural and economic landscape—supporting over 9,000 jobs, working with 700+ local suppliers, and promoting Filipino heritage through projects such as Ternocon with the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
“Our relationship with BDO has remained strong from the beginning and continues to thrive today. For 38 years, they have made us feel truly valued,” said Suyen founder Ben Chan.
The enduring partnership between Suyen and BDO stands as a model of how Philippine enterprises can achieve lasting success, shaping the country’s reputation as a hub for world-class brands while driving sustainable economic growth.
