Socorro Ramos: The Visionary Owner of National Book Store Who Built a School Supplies Empire

Introduction

Did you know that the owner of National Book Store, Socorro Ramos, started her business with just ₱200 in 1942? Today, National Book Store is the largest bookstore chain in the Philippines, with over 200 branches nationwide. But how did a small shop selling textbooks and school supplies grow into a household name? The answer lies in the grit, resilience, and entrepreneurial genius of Socorro Ramos—affectionately known as “Nanay Coring” by her employees.

Born in 1923, Socorro Ramos faced immense challenges early in life. She lost her father at a young age and had to work multiple jobs to support her family. Yet, her relentless drive and passion for education led her to co-found National Book Store with her husband, Jose Ramos. What began as a modest stall in Manila selling second-hand books and school supplies evolved into a retail empire that has shaped generations of Filipino students, professionals, and book lovers.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore the remarkable journey of the owner of National Book Store, from her humble beginnings to her lasting impact on Philippine retail. You’ll learn how she navigated wartime struggles, adapted to industry changes, and built a brand synonymous with quality school supplies and books. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a business student, or simply curious about her story, there’s much to uncover about Nanay Coring’s legacy.

By the end of this article, you’ll not only understand how Socorro Ramos built her empire but also discover actionable lessons you can apply to your own ventures. Ready to dive in? Let’s begin.

Table of Contents

• The Humble Beginnings of Socorro Ramos
• How National Book Store Was Founded
• Surviving World War II: Challenges & Triumphs
• The Expansion of a School Supplies Empire
• Nanay Coring’s Business Strategy: What Made NBS Successful?
• The Legacy of the Owner of National Book Store
• 5 Entrepreneurial Lessons from Socorro Ramos
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in Retail (And How NBS Avoided Them)
• Case Study: How National Book Store Dominated the Market
• The Future of National Book Store

The Humble Beginnings of Socorro Ramos

Socorro Ramos was born on July 29, 1923, in Manila, Philippines. Her early life was marked by hardship—her father passed away when she was young, leaving her mother to raise the family alone. Despite financial struggles, Nanay Coring’s mother instilled in her the value of education and hard work. This foundation would later shape her vision as the owner of National Book Store.

As a teenager, Socorro worked multiple jobs to help support her family. She sold school supplies and second-hand books, an experience that ignited her passion for retail and education. Little did she know, these small ventures were the seeds of what would become the Philippines’ largest bookstore chain.

In 1940, she married Jose Ramos, a salesman who shared her entrepreneurial spirit. Together, they dreamed of building a business that would serve Filipino students and families. Their partnership would prove instrumental in the founding of National Book Store just two years later.

How National Book Store Was Founded

In 1942, amidst the chaos of World War II, Socorro and Jose Ramos opened the first National Book Store in Escolta, Manila. With only ₱200 in capital, their tiny shop sold textbooks, notebooks, and other school supplies—items in high demand even during wartime. The couple’s timing was strategic: despite the war, education remained a priority for Filipino families, and their store filled a critical need.

The early days were far from glamorous. The Ramoses personally managed every aspect of the business, from sourcing products to serving customers. Socorro’s hands-on approach and keen eye for quality set National Book Store apart from competitors. She insisted on stocking durable, affordable supplies—a philosophy that earned customer trust and loyalty.

By 1945, the business had survived bombings, shortages, and economic instability. The end of the war brought new opportunities, and the owner of National Book Store was ready to expand. The couple relocated to Avenida Rizal, a bustling commercial area, where they opened a larger store. This move marked the beginning of National Book Store’s growth into a retail powerhouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How did Socorro Ramos start National Book Store?

Socorro Ramos and her husband Jose founded National Book Store in 1942 with just ₱200. They began by selling textbooks and school supplies in a small Manila shop, capitalizing on the demand for educational materials even during wartime.

2. What challenges did the owner of National Book Store face?

From wartime bombings to economic crises, Socorro Ramos navigated countless obstacles. She rebuilt the store twice after it was destroyed during World War II and adapted to changing markets over decades.

Conclusion

The story of Socorro Ramos, the owner of National Book Store, is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication. From a ₱200 startup to a nationwide empire, her journey offers timeless lessons for entrepreneurs. Whether it’s her customer-first approach or her ability to adapt, Nanay Coring’s legacy continues to inspire.

Ready to start your own business journey? Contact us for expert guidance, or share your thoughts in the comments below!