Declining profit margin due to competition may be the distinguishing factor that was magnified in the retail sector in 2011, but players continued to note strong consumer purchasing power in Cebu, despite the fragile economic plight at the year end.

"Confidence in both consumers and retailers spurred the growth of the retail sector this year [2011]. Retailers are spreading their businesses here and there. Those who are from Manila and even international brands are expanding in Cebu. Those from Cebu are likewise expanding to Visayas and Mindanao,” said Philippine Retailers Association (PRA-Cebu) incoming chairperson Melanie C Ng.