Globe partners with KDDI to explore digital services, retail growth in the Philippines

Details: Manny Pham; Category: Operators; 24 July 2026; 567 views

Philippines-based operator Globe has entered into a strategic partnership with Japan's KDDI Corporation to explore new opportunities in mobile services and retail, as the companies look to enhance customer experience and expand digital offerings.

The collaboration will focus on identifying new growth opportunities by combining KDDI's experience in telecommunications and digital services with Globe's customer base and market presence in the Philippines.

As part of the partnership, the companies will initially explore ways to expand and modernise Globe's retail footprint. Rather than simply increasing the number of stores, the initiative aims to redesign the retail experience to better serve customers in an increasingly digital market while maintaining access to in-person support.

Globe said the move comes two years after it streamlined parts of its physical retail network as more customers shifted to digital channels.

Carl Cruz, president and CEO of Globe, said the partnership would allow the operator to learn from one of the world's most advanced telecoms markets while contributing its own understanding of Filipino consumers.

"Together, we aim to explore new ways to make mobile services more relevant, retail experiences more seamless, and digital solutions more responsive to the evolving needs of Filipinos," he said.

The companies will also examine how KDDI's recurring revenue model, which combines telecommunications with financial, entertainment, lifestyle and other digital services, could be adapted to complement Globe's business. Globe currently serves around 67 million mobile customers.

The operator said the partnership supports its broader strategy of evolving beyond traditional connectivity by building a more integrated digital ecosystem and creating additional value for customers.

Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.