Often sari-sari store owners apply a markup of about 10% on average, compared to the 20% average markup of the 24/7 convenience store alternatives such as 7-11, so most Filipinos tend to buy at sari-sari stores when possible. Sari-sari stores have higher prices when compared to supermarkets but provides several benefits to their customers. The sari-sari store provides easy access to basic commodities at low cost. Without them, villagers must go to the nearest market town, which may be quite far from the village itself. In the Philippines, following the concept of tingi or retail, a customer can buy 'units' of the product rather than whole package. For example, one can buy a single cigarette for (5) five pesos (0.10 US dollars) rather than a whole pack. This is convenient for those who cannot buy the whole package or do not need much of it, although it is cumulatively more expensive. The sari-sari store also saves the customer from paying extra transportation costs, especially in rural areas, since some towns can be very far from the nearest market or grocery. The store may also allow purchases on credit. The stores also act as trading centers in rural areas. Farmers and fishermen may directly trade their products to the sari-sari store in return for basic articles, fuel, and other supplies.
