MAKATI CITY — Smöoy, the Spanish frozen yogurt brand born from a century‑old family tradition of artisan ice‑cream making, has officially opened its first Philippine store. The flagship shop welcomed its first customers on July 28, 2026 at the Concourse Area of One Ayala Mall.
A Sweet Spanish Arrival
The opening brought together the brand’s local master franchise partners Venon Huibonhoa, Samantha Hiranand, and Seth Hiranand. Jose Guillén Martinez, a member of the founding Martinez family from Spain, flew in to witness the milestone. Their presence signaled a personal stake in the brand’s Southeast Asian journey.
Ayala Malls executives led by Mariana Zobel de Ayala and Paloma Urquijo Zobel de Ayala joined the ribbon‑cutting. A thanksgiving mass preceded the ceremony, adding a touch of tradition before the doors swung open. The concourse quickly filled with the aroma of freshly swirled yogurt and the chatter of eager customers.
Healthier Indulgence with a Mediterranean Twist
Smöoy’s menu is built around a functional frozen yogurt base that is low‑fat, high‑fiber, and entirely gluten‑free. Customers choose from four signature flavors: Natural, a rotating Special Flavor, Chocolate, and Cream. Each swirl is crafted from proprietary recipes developed in Murcia, Spain.
The real playground lies in the toppings bar, where over 36 options await. Fresh mangoes, strawberries, crunchy granola, and premium sauces let diners build their own dessert masterpiece. The combination of health‑conscious ingredients and indulgent customization appeals to a growing market of mindful yet adventurous eaters.
A Family Legacy Poured into Every Cup
Smöoy was founded in 2010 but rests on more than a hundred years of Martinez family expertise in artisan ice‑cream craftsmanship. What began as a small shop in Murcia grew into a global footprint spanning over 15 countries. The brand’s philosophy marries Old World technique with modern dietary sensibilities.
The Philippine launch represents a strategic push into the Southeast Asian market, where demand for premium frozen desserts continues to rise. Local franchise partners see Smöoy as a bridge between European quality and Filipino taste. The warm reception on opening day suggests they have found a receptive audience.
Makati’s Newest Dessert Destination
One Ayala Mall, situated at the bustling intersection of EDSA and Ayala Avenue, provides a high‑traffic home for the flagship store. Commuters, office workers, and shoppers can now cap their journeys with a swirl of authentic Spanish yogurt. The location at the Concourse Area places Smöoy at the very heart of Makati’s daily rhythm.
The brand wasted no time in expanding, opening a second branch at SM North EDSA just a day later. The rapid rollout signals confidence in the local market and a commitment to serving a broader audience. For Makati’s dessert lovers, the arrival of Smöoy means a new reason to linger a little longer at the mall.
