Technology will drive the reboot of the mall in Singapore

THE one-two punch of technology disruption and Covid-19 has been the latest blow dealt to the local retail landscape, particularly for brick-and-mortar stores that were already struggling pre-pandemic. However, with news of the government's plans to impose Goods and Services Tax (GST) on imported low-value goods bought online in 2023, there is hope of levelling the playing field for local businesses.

The shuttering of Robinsons late last year may have been seen as a sign of the beginning of the end of brick-and-mortar stores. However, it would be remiss of any critical observer to disregard the throngs of shoppers that formed a human fence around the department store's flagship outlet at the Heeren the weekend it announced its impending closure. When it comes to paying homage to one of Singapore's retail behemoths - coupled with the potential of finding a good bargain - many appeared to be more than happy to relive the good old days of retail fervour in-store and in line.

This is not surprising to us. Research data from Adyen's latest Agility Report shows that consumers in Singapore are looking forward to returning to the store to shop for pleasure again - but they would also like to see some changes.