SAM brings mall visits to a whole new level

If you are lost or confused in the vastness of SM Megamall, look for SAM and he/she will help you get to where you want to go or give you the information you need.

It is quite easy to spot SAM. He/she is about three-foot tall and a true metal head.

SAM’s gender, however, is anyone’s guess.

The Philippines’ first robot concierge is designed to make a visit to SM Supermalls even more enjoyable and convenient for patrons.

Now you only need to talk to SAM to get directions.

There are three SAMs in Megamall, deployed in key areas, ready to come to the assistance of shoppers in need.

SM’s newest guide was formally introduced by Steven Tan, SM Supermalls chief operating officer.

Tan said SAM was part of the mall chain’s commitment to always seek ways to enhance further the clients’ shopping experience.

Of course, the novelty of interacting with a robot is also part of the marketing strategy to bring even more business to SM malls.

“Throughout the years, innovation has always been at the core of SM’s growth in delivering better malling experiences. This year, one of our key strategies is to leverage on the latest and most advanced technologies,” Tan said.

He said the “country’s first ever smart customer service robot … will provide greeting services via face detection, quick access to mall and product information, mall directions, deals and promos, and even 24/7 access via chatbot.”

Tan added, “Designed to bring more fun in the malls, our friendly robot can entertain, assist, and even say ‘hey’ to you! Our newest friend is “#SMThing new, something smart.”

While SAM seems to be a variation of SM, the name was also chosen because “it is gender-neutral, short and very easy to recall.”

SAM was created in partnership with Cal-Comp Technology, a leading provider of electronic and original design manufacturing services.

Its interactive features include greeting patrons via face detection and providing quick access to mall and product information, deals and promotions, as well as information on events and activities in SM malls.

SAM will undergo continuous upgrading to give SM clients an ideal shopping experience.

If SAM’s Megamall debut is successful, he/she will be brought to other premier SM malls like Mall of Asia, Seaside City Cebu and Aura Premier.

SM said it decided to bring out SAM because as “one of the largest mall groups in the country, our customers expect so much from SM. We have to meet those expectations and continue to deliver and innovate, just as Henry Sy, our [late] founder, was an innovator.” —CONTRIBUTED