On the sixth floor of Shangri-La Plaza, a bonsai tree was watered by the executives of Techno Holdings Corporation. The ritual set the tone for what the company describes as a long-term investment in the local beauty and wellness scene.
On March 3, Techno Holdings opened its Health & Beauty Hub at Shangri-La Plaza, bringing together four Japanese wellness and beauty brands in a single 455-square-meter space on Level 6 of the mall.
The hub houses NORA Japanese Hair Salon, NORA Lab, Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care, and Phiten, offering hair, skincare, and wellness products under one roof.
Hidekazu Ando, founder of NORA Japan and CEO of Nora Hair Salon Philippines, said the company aims to introduce its training systems and service standards to the local market.
“Our goal is not merely to open salons. Our goal is to breathe new life into the Philippine beauty industry,” he shared.
NORA is recognized in Japan through the Kami Charisma guide, which lists distinguished salons nationwide. In the Philippines, the brand emphasizes detailed consultations, structured techniques, and the Japanese concept of “Omotenashi,” or hospitality.
Inside the hub, Nora Lab serves as a training facility for aspiring stylists. Lilet Martinez, vice president for operations of Techno Holdings, described the challenges of recruiting and training the initial batch of trainees, noting that early setbacks eventually led to a more stable system.
“Hairstyling is not just about cutting hair. In Nora, it’s precision, artistry that allows you to express yourself, your individuality. Every client and guest who sits on that salon chair is not just there to have a haircut but wants change. And in Nora, it’s the new me,” Martinez shared.
Meanwhile, Miss Esthe Facial Salon and Skin Care, which considers the Philippines its first overseas market, offers non-invasive facial treatments developed in Japan.
Techno Holdings Corporation assistant to the chairman Chinky Gabas described the expansion as part of their broader international growth strategy.
“The Philippines, as the very first overseas market, holds remarkable strategic importance and opportunity for Miss Esthe. From the Philippines to Asia and from Asia to the world, this is not simply international expansion. It is the elevation of our brand to a global standard,” said Gabas.
Phiten, founded in Kyoto in 1983, contributes wellness products that incorporate its patented Aqua Titanium technology. In a statement, president Yoshihiro Hirata said the partnership supports the company’s goal of promoting health and well-being in the Philippines.
In a statement read on behalf of Phiten Co. Ltd. president Yoshihiro Hirata, the company underscored its long-term commitment to research and global expansion.
“Guided by our motto, everything we do, we do it for your health, we have poured our passion into research and development, delivering Phiten’s technologies and products across the globe. We look forward to continuing this journey together with everyone at THC, supporting the health and well-being of the people of the Philippines,” Hirata stated.
He also noted anticipation for the upcoming IP Salon, which will feature additional wellness technologies, and expressed hope for “the continued growth and success” of the partnership.
Techno Holdings is also introducing a “Share The Care” rewards program, allowing customers to receive perks across participating brands with qualifying purchases until June 30.
Company officials said additional branches are planned across Metro Manila as they expand their presence in the local health and beauty market.
source: https://manilastandard.net/lifestyle/314711303/new-hub-introduces-japanese-inspired-hair-skincare-and-wellness-concepts.html
