Alliance Global sets 5-year digital transformation plan

Tycoon Andrew Tan-led Alliance Global Group Inc. (AGI) has mapped out a five-year innovation and digital transformation program to future-proof the conglomerate, which has interests in real estate, liquor, gaming, fast food and infrastructure.

The program focuses on addressing the need for its various companies to adapt to technological changes that may be disruptive to existing businesses.

“This program allows us to study our existing technology across all businesses and assess where we can further enhance them and achieve innovative solutions. This will also give us the opportunity to look for other new technological innovations, platforms and companies where we can invest in, in order to support and improve our current business operations and at the same time, make them profitable businesses on their own,” AGI chief executive officer Kevin Andrew Tan said in a statement.

While the conglomerate empowers each of its subsidiaries to flesh out its own initiatives, it will focus on how to unlock synergies.

AGI plans to form a core group, composed of representatives from its various companies, to hatch new projects and share best practices.

“We are open to acquiring platforms, and even companies, that focus on particular innovations that are relevant to our various businesses,” Tan said.

Planned initiatives include innovations on smart home technology for its real estate businesses, e-commerce, logistics, transportation, property technology and customer service management.

Last year, Megaworld initiated its “iTownship” program that sought to build developments that were ready for the demands of the future. The program encompasses innovation in design, home technology, smart mobility and environmental sustainability.

Emperador, for its part, has upgraded its facilities and technology in brandy and whisky-making, including those used in its vineyards in Spain, and in its distilleries in Scotland. It is also actively pursuing the development of e-commerce platforms for its consumer products.

Travellers International Hotel Group Inc., owner and operator of Resorts World Manila, is working on enhancing its mobile app to provide convenience to guests, such as in making restaurant and hotel reservations. It is also working on enhancing the monitoring and operations of its gaming and hotel facilities through the use of data analytics.

Golden Arches Development Corp. (GADC), which holds the exclusive franchise to operate quick service restaurants in the Philippines under the “McDonald’s” brand, has rolled out NXTGEN stores which feature self-ordering kiosks, modernized menu boards and card payment acceptance. GADC plans to roll out more NXTGEN stores this year, from its current 62 stores throughout the country.