COVER STORY
BOBBY CLAUDIO
An inspiring narrative of a visionary leader who has not only built a household name in Philippine sports retailing but who is also leaving a lasting legacy in the retail industry .
Written By Mayan Sangil PRA Deputy Secretary General for Advocacy & Communications
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For four and a half decades , Toby ’ s Sports has solidified its status as a household name in Philippine sports retailing , transcending its role as a mere retailer to become synonymous with the nation ’ s sporting zeal . Their tagline “ We Got This ” echoes through their store aisles , drawing enthusiasts seeking everything from basketballs to treadmills . At the helm of this sports retail empire is the visionary leader , Roberto “ Bobby ” Claudio , Sr . whose influence extends far beyond the confines of their growing stores , reaching into every sector of the retailing industry .
Bobby ’ s commitment to unwavering excellence is manifested in the multitude of roles he undertakes . Serving as Chairman Emeritus of Quorum Holdings Corp , the current president of the Philippine Retailers Association ( PRA ), and GS1 Philippines , as well as being a member of the Private Sector Advisory Council ( PSAC ), he epitomizes a multifaceted commitment to the industry .
While Toby ’ s Sports continues to flourish in the local market , Bobby envisions global recognition for the Philippine retail industry . His mission goes beyond selling products ; it is about establishing new benchmarks and demonstrating that Philippine retail can compete on the international stage . Yet , amidst this pursuit , Bobby remains firmly anchored in principles of integrity and a steadfast vision .
From Toys to Triumph : The Story of Toby ’ s Sports
Less known to many , the beginnings of Toby ’ s Sports trace back to the selling of toys in 1978 before making a transformative shift to sports in 1982 . Its humble origins began as a modest toy shop nestled in a corner of Greenhills Shopping Center . Originally named Toby ’ s Forms and Shapes , the store later evolved into Toby ’ s Sports and Hobbies , paying homage to Bobby ’ s son , the namesake .
Reflecting on the inception of Toby ’ s Sports , Bobby recalls perceiving an untapped market opportunity . “ We saw a dearth of quality sports equipment in the country and we wanted to introduce branded sports products in the Philippines ,” Bobby explained .
The 1990s marked a pivotal era for Toby ’ s Sports as the demand for professional and good quality sporting goods surged . Sensing this opportunity , Bobby steered the business towards expansion , opening one store annually during the first decade , and doubling that rate in the subsequent years . As of 2023 , Toby ’ s Sports boasts an impressive portfolio of 70 stores across three formats – Toby ’ s Sports , Runnr , urbanAthletics – alongside a robust online presence .
The turning point , as Bobby recounts , materialized when Toby ’ s Sports secured the country distributorship for renowned