Author: Mei Ling Tan

  • End of an Era: Jinjja Chicken Bids Farewell to Changi Airport, Teases New Location for 2026

    End of an Era: Jinjja Chicken Bids Farewell to Changi Airport, Teases New Location for 2026

    After operating for six successful years, Jinjja Chicken, a well-known fried chicken chain, has closed its shop located in Changi Airport. However, the brand hinted at a potential opening of a new outlet.

    Thanking the Loyal Customers

    In an announcement made on social media last week, Jinjja Chicken expressed heartfelt gratitude to its loyal customers for their unwavering support over the years. The brand appreciated all those customers who queued, craved, celebrated, and created lasting memories at the outlet over the past six years. The brand emphasized that the customers’ patronage significantly contributed to their journey, turning their dining experience into a space filled with camaraderie.

    Despite the closure of its Changi Airport outlet, Jinjja Chicken’s patrons in eastern Singapore need not worry. They can continue to enjoy their favourite dishes at the brand’s outlet located at Our Tampines Hub. The brand further ensured that this outlet offers an expanded menu to cater to all taste buds.

    The Journey Continues: Future Plans

    Jinjja Chicken currently operates six restaurants. However, their journey doesn’t end here. The brand has excitedly teased the opening of another new outlet, slated for March 2026. While the exact location of the upcoming outlet remains a mystery, the brand invited the public to guess the location, dropping a hint that the place starts with the letter “B”.

    Jinjja Chicken is well-known for serving crunchy deep-fried chicken tossed in an array of sauces. Besides their signature offering, the brand also serves a variety of South Korean dishes such as kimbap and spicy noodles, catering to a wide range of culinary preferences.

    Questions & Answers

    What will happen to Jinjja Chicken’s outlet at Changi Airport?
    The outlet at Changi Airport has closed after six years of operation, as announced by Jinjja Chicken.

    Where can customers in eastern Singapore find Jinjja Chicken now?
    Customers from eastern Singapore can still enjoy Jinjja Chicken’s offerings at their outlet located at Our Tampines Hub.

    Does Jinjja Chicken plan to open a new outlet?
    Yes, Jinjja Chicken has hinted at the opening of a new outlet scheduled for March 2026 with the location starting with the letter “B”.

  • OCBC Overcomes Interest Income Dip with Diversified Revenue: Unveils ‘The Next Frontier’ Strategy

    OCBC Overcomes Interest Income Dip with Diversified Revenue: Unveils ‘The Next Frontier’ Strategy

    Despite experiencing a slight dip in interest income, Singapore’s OCBC managed to maintain a relatively static profit, thanks to diverse revenue sources.

    Financial Performance

    OCBC recorded a net profit of S$7.4 billion ($5.9 billion) in 2025, marking a 2 percent decrease compared to the previous year’s record of S$7.6 billion. The bank’s income, however, reached an unprecedented level of S$14.6 billion. This rise can be attributed to a 16 percent increase in non-interest income, which was seen across all sectors including fees, commissions, trades, and insurance (both life and general). Operating expenses saw a slight increase of 2 percent, rising to S$5.9 billion, primarily due to increases in staff and IT-related costs.

    The Next Frontier

    OCBC CEO Tan Teck Long, who took over from Helen Wong on January 1, acknowledged the bank’s completion of its previous three-year plan, which brought about “commendable progress.” Under this plan, the bank managed to unify its brand across its core markets, leading to enhanced synergies through a unified-group approach.

    OCBC has now initiated its new strategy, aptly named “The Next Frontier.” The bank aims to improve return on equity through a stronger focus on high-returning businesses, while maintaining cost discipline. The goal is to achieve a cost-income ratio in the low to mid 40 percent range.

    This strategy, according to CEO Tan, equips the bank with the necessary tools to compete and succeed in the next growth phase. This includes tapping into rising Asian markets, enhancing core market franchise, advancing technology-led and customer-centric capabilities through AI, Digital, and Data, and continuing to support green transitions.

    Despite geopolitical tensions, evolving trade dynamics, and interest rate uncertainties, Tan remains “cautiously optimistic” about the future. He believes that the bank’s robust balance sheet, prudent risk management, and diversified growth engines will allow it to successfully navigate these challenging conditions and deliver sustainable, long-term value.

    Questions & Answers

    What was OCBC’s net profit for 2025?
    OCBC recorded a net profit of S$7.4 billion ($5.9 billion) in 2025.

    What is OCBC’s new strategy and what does it aim to achieve?
    OCBC’s new strategy is titled “The Next Frontier.” It aims to improve return on equity through a stronger focus on high-returning businesses and maintaining cost discipline with a goal to attain a cost-income ratio in the low to mid 40 percent range.

    What are the bank’s views on the upcoming market conditions?
    CEO Tan Teck Long remains cautiously optimistic about the future. He believes that despite geopolitical tensions, evolving trade dynamics, and interest rate uncertainties, the bank, with its robust balance sheet, prudent risk management, and diversified growth engines, is well positioned to navigate these challenges and deliver sustainable, long-term value.

  • Gold Glitters High in Vietnam: Bullion Boosted by Global Rally and Wealth Day Purchases

    Gold Glitters High in Vietnam: Bullion Boosted by Global Rally and Wealth Day Purchases

    On Wednesday, the price of gold in Vietnam experienced a rise, mirroring the global surge in bullion rates after a decrease during the earlier session. Saigon Jewelry Company reported a rise of 0.38% in gold bar prices, reaching VND185.3 million ($7,090.80) per tael, a price match with other retailers.

    Rise in Gold Ring Prices

    Gold ring prices followed a similar trend, increasing by the same rate to VND184.8 million per tael. A tael is a weight measurement equivalent to approximately 37.5 grams or 1.2 ounces.

    God of Wealth Day Impact

    With the advent of the God of Wealth Day on Thursday, numerous jewelry shops in Hanoi witnessed long queues of customers eager to buy gold. It is a popular belief that buying gold during this event will invite prosperity throughout the year.

    Global Gold Trends

    Internationally, gold prices also went up on Wednesday as Asian traders sought refuge in the safe-haven metal amidst uncertainty over U.S. tariffs. This follows a ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that annulled several of President Donald Trump’s measures. Spot gold saw an increase of 0.7%, reaching $5,181.95 per ounce. Despite ending the previous session with a decline of over 1% as investors capitalized on profits after gold reached a three-week peak earlier in the day, U.S. gold futures for April delivery saw an uptick of 0.5% at $5,200.40.

    According to a technical analyst, gold may find stability around a support of $5,140 per ounce and may retest the resistance at $5,244. They also noted that the immediate resistance is at $5,205; breaking above this may result in an increase in the range of $5,221 to $5,244.

    Questions & Answers

    Why did the price of gold increase in Vietnam?
    The price of gold increased in Vietnam due to a global surge in bullion rates and the upcoming God of Wealth Day, a time when people buy gold to invite prosperity.

    What factors are influencing global gold prices?
    Global gold prices are influenced by many factors, including geopolitical uncertainties such as the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling on tariffs, which led investors to seek refuge in gold, seen as a safe-haven metal.

    What is the future outlook for gold prices?
    The future of gold prices may see some stability around a support of $5,140 per ounce and may retest the resistance at $5,244. If the price breaks above the immediate resistance of $5,205, it could lead to a gain in the range of $5,221 to $5,244.

  • US Dollar Gains Momentum against Vietnamese Dong Amid Global Currency Shifts

    US Dollar Gains Momentum against Vietnamese Dong Amid Global Currency Shifts

    On Wednesday morning, the US dollar experienced a surge against the Vietnamese dong while simultaneously witnessing a decline against several of its other major counterparts. In the currency exchange, Vietcombank sold the US dollar at VND26,309. This represented a marginal increase of 0.02% compared to the previous day’s rate. On the unofficial currency market, the US dollar saw a slightly larger gain of 0.1%, reaching around VND26,858.

    Monetary Policy Moves

    The State Bank of Vietnam responded to these fluctuations by increasing its reference rate by 0.02% to VND25,057. This move typically reflects the government’s effort to manage the value of the Vietnamese dong and ensure economic stability in the country.

    Global Currency Trends

    In broader international markets, Asian currencies made a recovery on Wednesday, bouncing back from losses sustained the previous day. Many investors are closely monitoring the US Supreme Court’s recent decision to block President Donald Trump’s tariffs that were imposed using emergency powers. They are also keenly observing his speeches for any potential indicators of future trade policy changes.

    The dollar index, a key benchmark used to gauge the value of the US dollar relative to a basket of other major currencies, including the yen and the euro, fell slightly by 0.05% to 97.84. In parallel, the euro saw a mild increase of 0.05%, reaching $1.1777.

    The value of the yen against the US dollar saw a modest uptick of 0.12%, reaching 155.7 per dollar. This comes after a significant drop of 0.8% on Tuesday.

    In other parts of the world, the Australian dollar experienced a rise of 0.3% to $0.7074. This followed a surge in inflation which has increased the likelihood of future rate hikes. Additionally, the New Zealand dollar saw a minor increase in its value, reaching $0.5971.

    Questions & Answers

    How did the US dollar perform against the Vietnamese dong on Wednesday?
    The US dollar saw a marginal increase against the Vietnamese dong on Wednesday, selling at VND26,309 in Vietcombank, which is a 0.02% increase from the previous day.

    How did other major currencies perform against the US dollar?
    The yen and the Australian and New Zealand dollars all strengthened against the US dollar. The yen increased 0.12%, while the Australian dollar rose by 0.3%. The New Zealand dollar also saw a minor increase.

    How did global events impact the currency market?
    Investors are closely monitoring recent decisions by the US Supreme Court and speeches from President Donald Trump for signals on future trade policy. These global events have an impact on currency movements and investors’ actions.

  • Thai Beauty Giant Konvy Makes Retail Debut in Philippines, Broadens Beauty Horizons with Global Brands

    Thai Beauty Giant Konvy Makes Retail Debut in Philippines, Broadens Beauty Horizons with Global Brands

    Thai-based beauty retailer, Konvy, has made its physical debut in the Philippines by opening its inaugural flagship store in Robinsons Galleria, Pasig City.

    Konvy established its roots in the beauty industry in 2012, initially operating as an e-commerce platform in Thailand. Over the years, the company has enhanced its business model to incorporate brick-and-mortar stores, in addition to their online presence.

    Konvy made its initial foray into the Philippine market in 2023 through renowned online platforms Lazada and Shopee. The company has been offering a range of health and beauty products tailored to meet the needs of local consumers.

    The Flagship Store

    The flagship store provides a carefully selected assortment of international beauty brands with a strong emphasis on products sourced from Thailand, Korea, China, and Japan.

    Prominent among the brands showcased in the store are 4U2, Srichand, Cathy Doll, Snail White, Oxecure, Baby Bright, BrowIt by Nongchat, and Snake Brand, among others.

    JC Chen, the Chief Commercial Officer of Konvy, expressed his enthusiasm about the company’s new venture in the Philippines. “The launch of our maiden flagship store in the Philippines marks an exciting milestone for Konvy Beauty as we aim to strengthen our footprint in the market,” said Chen.

    He added, “Our strategic collaboration with Robinsons Malls enables us to bring Konvy’s unique, discovery-driven beauty experience closer to Filipino shoppers.”

    The company announced that the store’s inauguration is a part of its more comprehensive expansion strategy in the country.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the business model of Konvy?
    Konvy operates a dual business model that combines both online operations and brick-and-mortar retail stores.

    Where has Konvy opened its first flagship store in the Philippines?
    Konvy has opened its first flagship store in the Philippines at Robinsons Galleria in Pasig City.

    What kind of products does Konvy offer in its stores?
    Konvy offers a wide variety of health and beauty products, specifically focusing on products from Thailand, Korea, China, and Japan. It features brands like 4U2, Srichand, Cathy Doll, Snail White, Oxecure, Baby Bright, BrowIt by Nongchat, and Snake Brand, amongst others.

  • Nike Unveils First ACG Flagship Store in Beijing: Breathing New Life into Outdoor Sports Culture

    Nike Unveils First ACG Flagship Store in Beijing: Breathing New Life into Outdoor Sports Culture

    Nike has broadened its scope in the outdoor performance sector with the inauguration of its maiden All Conditions Gear (ACG) flagship store in Beijing, thereby officially rebranding ACG as an independent entity.

    The Store at Taikoo Li Sanlitun

    The ACG Base Camp, situated at Taikoo Li Sanlitun, is the first worldwide retail concept devoted solely to ACG. The store’s launch underscores the instrumental role of the Chinese market in Nike’s overarching expansion strategies.

    Nike has positioned the Beijing store as more than just a conventional retail outlet. Instead, it aims for the store to serve as both a community center and a stage for brand narration, intending to connect urban customers with outdoor sports culture.

    The Legacy of ACG

    ACG, first unveiled over four decades ago, has carved out a reputation for catering to athletes involved in trail running, hiking, and various other outdoor activities. Nike’s decision to rebrand ACG preserves the brand’s longstanding commitment to producing performance-oriented products tailored for a range of challenging conditions.

    The rebranding serves as an indication of Nike’s renewed focus on the outdoor division within its product lineup.

    A New Chapter for ACG

    Scott LeClair, the Vice President and General Manager of ACG, stated that this constitutes a pivotal point in the history of ACG. It represents a renewed commitment to all conditions and serves as a call to athletes to disconnect from their routine, venture outdoors, and explore.

    “ACG has the potential to shape the future of outdoor performance and venture into exciting, novel territories. It is going to be an exhilarating journey,” said LeClair.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the strategic implication of launching the maiden ACG flagship store in Beijing?
    Opening the first ACG store in Beijing highlights the integral role of the Chinese market in Nike’s broader expansion plans.

    What sets the new ACG store apart from traditional retail outlets?
    The Beijing ACG store is intended to function as a community hub and a platform for brand storytelling, aiming to connect urban customers with outdoor sports culture.

    What does the rebranding of ACG indicate about Nike’s future plans?
    The rebranding of ACG indicates Nike’s renewed emphasis on the outdoor segment within its product portfolio.

  • Marks & Spencer Philippines on the Brink: Store Closures & Deep Discounts Signal Potential Exit

    Marks & Spencer Philippines on the Brink: Store Closures & Deep Discounts Signal Potential Exit

    The continued closure of stores and generous discounts across the Philippines have led to speculation about the sustainability of Marks & Spencer’s (M&S) local operations. This comes as the brand’s long-time franchise partner starts to shut down several outlets in the region.

    M&S has enjoyed a presence in the country for over thirty years through a partnership with the Rustan’s Group of Companies, which was bought by SSI Group last year. In recent times, several key M&S stores including those located at TriNoma, Robinsons Manila, Marquee Mall, and Ayala Center Cebu have ceased operations. Rumors also abound about the possible closure of the brand’s outlet at the SM Mall of Asia.

    The remaining outlets have resorted to hefty discounts of up to 60% and ‘buy-one-get-one-free’ deals as they attempt to clear stock. Specifically, at the Rockwell and Greenbelt stores, the variety of food for sale has dwindled, with empty refrigerators and shelves filled with repetitive products.

    The M&S Philippines website still promotes 13 branches across the country, which includes outlets in Davao and Laguna. This is a significant reduction from the over 20 stores that were operating at the height of the brand’s popularity in the country.

    This pattern of store closures and heavy discounting has led to conjecture from both customers and industry experts that M&S may be contemplating an exit from the Philippine market. Customer reactions, particularly online, have been largely negative, with many expressing disappointment over the potential loss of extended-size clothing ranges that are less commonly available in the local market.

    Meanwhile, M&S is in the process of revamping its international operations. In the UK, the retailer is planning to cut the number of its full-line stores from 229 to 180 via closures, conversion to food outlets, and relocation to other full-line stores.

    “We’re focusing on bigger, better partnerships, which enable us to bring the best of M&S to the world,” Mark Lemming, MD for international markets at M&S, noted. “As we continue to progress with our strategy, I remain confident in the medium and long-term opportunity for M&S to drive global growth.”

    Still, it’s unclear whether the Philippine store closures signal a decision from the franchise partner, the parent company, or both. SSI Group has yet to issue a public comment on the situation.

    Questions & Answers

    What has led to speculation about the future of M&S in the Philippines?
    Store closures and heavy discounting have sparked speculation about the sustainability of M&S’s operations in the country.

    What changes are being made to M&S’s international operations?
    The company is focusing on establishing larger, more effective partnerships to drive worldwide growth, alongside reducing the number of full-line stores in the UK.

    Who is responsible for the decision to close M&S stores in the Philippines?
    It is currently unclear whether the decision to close stores comes from the franchise partner, the parent company, or both. SSI Group, the franchise partner, has not yet publicly commented on the matter.

  • Apple Preps for Stable iOS 26.3 Update as iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Launches: No Siri Overhaul, but Exciting New Features Await

    Apple Preps for Stable iOS 26.3 Update as iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Launches: No Siri Overhaul, but Exciting New Features Await

    Upcoming iOS Updates to Include Minor Improvements

    Apple users who are currently using stable iOS 26.3 might have noticed that a minor update, iOS 26.3.1, is currently under testing. This update is projected to roll out within the next fortnight. Primarily, it’s expected to be a minor adjustment aimed at rectifying a bug or patching a potential software vulnerability.

    The release of iOS 26.3.1 might coincide with the launch of the lower-priced iPhone 17e model, which is expected to hit the market during the first week of March. In anticipation of the release of some Siri 2.0 features in iOS 26.4, as previously stated by Apple, some iPhone users installed iOS 26.4 Beta 1 in hopes of getting an early preview of an enhanced Siri. However, this move was unfruitful as Apple launched iOS 26.4 Beta 1 without any Siri AI improvements.

    Regrettably, I was one of the iPhone users who installed iOS 26.4 Beta 1 only to find that the advancements to Siri 2.0 had been delayed. The expectation now is that some of the new features for Siri will be introduced with iOS 26.5, which is due in May. The significant upgrade to Siri that will transform the digital assistant into a chatbot akin to ChatGPT and Gemini, however, is expected to land later in the year with the release of iOS 27 in September.

    The Playlist Playground

    The next stable update, iOS 26.4, is projected to arrive in late March or early April. Despite the likely absence of major changes to Siri, this update will introduce some exciting features like the Playlist Playground, a feature that debuted with iOS 26.4 Beta 1. This feature will allow users to generate a 25-song playlist based on a text prompt. The chip containing Apple’s recommended playlist requests can be tapped by users. If the generated playlist doesn’t meet your liking, there are options to refine it further by adding instructions, such as excluding a particular genre or enhancing a certain sound.

    End-To-End Encryption for Cross-Platform Messaging

    Apple has also begun testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS. Initially, when iOS 26.4 Beta 1 was released, E2EE RCS testing was restricted to messages sent between two iPhones with iMessage disabled. However, with the release of iOS 26.4 Beta 2, Apple has started allowing cross-platform RCS messaging between iOS and Android devices, protected with E2EE. Users of the latest Beta 2 release are now seeing a “lock icon” while texting a compatible Android phone. However, E2EE cross-platform RCS messaging is not expected to arrive on a stable iOS build until the release of iOS 26.5 or iOS 26.6.

    Questions & Answers

    When is the release of iOS 26.3.1 expected?
    The release is expected to happen sometime within the next two weeks.

    What are the new Siri 2.0 features expected in iOS 26.4?
    Despite initial expectations, it appears that major changes to Siri have been delayed and are now expected to be introduced in iOS 26.5.

    What is the Playlist Playground feature in iOS 26.4?
    This feature allows users to generate a 25-song playlist based on a text prompt, with options for further refinement based on user instructions.

  • Coming Soon: WhatsApp’s Game-Changing Feature to Revolutionize Your Messaging Experience

    Coming Soon: WhatsApp’s Game-Changing Feature to Revolutionize Your Messaging Experience

    WhatsApp, a messaging app widely used across the globe with over a billion downloads on both the App Store and Play Store, is known for its unique features, including high-quality image sharing, chat lock, and built-in integration with Meta AI. Despite these capabilities, there is one feature missing that is common in most messaging platforms: message scheduling. Fortunately, the implementation of this feature is on the horizon.

    Meta Takes Action

    In recent times, Meta has rolled out a series of significant updates to WhatsApp, which include a redesigned status section and enhanced privacy measures. Now, the company is turning its attention to the long-awaited message scheduling feature, which is predicted to be a highly anticipated upgrade.

    This inclusion was recently detected in a TestFlight beta of the WhatsApp iOS app, hinting that development is actively in progress and hinting at its imminent launch on the stable build. Accompanying this discovery, a screenshot of the Group Info interface has been circulated, displaying the Scheduled Messages option as part of the available features.

    The scheduling feature will provide the ability to compose a message and set it to be sent at a later time. This could be particularly useful in scenarios where you want to send a birthday message at midnight but are concerned about forgetting due to other obligations. The scheduling feature enables the user to pen the birthday greeting and set it to be delivered at the desired time.

    Rival Platforms Ahead of the Curve

    WhatsApp has a host of competitors, including Signal, Messenger, iMessage, and notably, Telegram. Unlike WhatsApp, Telegram has had the ability to schedule messages since 2019.

    Notably, Telegram also offers a “Repeat” function that enables users to schedule a specific message to be sent automatically at regular intervals. This feature is incredibly useful for sending recurring reminders or tasks. It remains unknown if WhatsApp will also provide this additional functionality or simply stick with the basic scheduling feature.

    Interestingly, Instagram — another Meta-owned platform — already includes the ability to schedule messages for later delivery.

    Early Stages of Development

    While the feature is in the pipeline, it is still in early developmental stages. When development is finalized, it will be made accessible to a select group of beta testers who will share feedback and relay their user experience. Upon completion of this phase, the feature will be made available to all users. However, it is estimated that several weeks remain before the scheduling feature becomes an integral part of WhatsApp’s day-to-day operation.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new feature being added to WhatsApp?
    Answer: WhatsApp is adding a message scheduling feature, allowing users to compose a message and set it to be sent at a later time.

    When was this feature first introduced by WhatsApp’s competitor, Telegram?
    Answer: Telegram introduced message scheduling in 2019.

    What is the current status of the development for this feature on WhatsApp?
    Answer: The message scheduling feature is in its early stages of development on WhatsApp and will soon be tested by a select group of beta users. A general roll-out is expected to follow in the upcoming weeks.

  • Citi Unveils New Chicago Desk to Bolster Support for Korean Corporates in the US Market

    Citi Unveils New Chicago Desk to Bolster Support for Korean Corporates in the US Market

    Citi, the American multinational investment bank, is set to enhance its service to Korean corporate clientele with the inauguration of a new desk in Chicago.

    Expanding Coverage of Korean Corporates

    The newly launched Korea desk in Chicago is part of Citi’s strategic plan to augment its local financial support for Korean corporate clients who are penetrating the North American market. This addition builds upon Citi’s existing US coverage of Korean corporations, which was initiated in New York in 1993.

    Currently, Citi operates Korea desks around the world, including in London, Prague, Dubai, Singapore, Warsaw, Chennai, Hong Kong, Atlanta, and Monterrey.

    Growth of Korean Corporates in North America

    Citi reports that Korean corporates are quickly spreading their influence across North America, spanning a broad range of industries such as manufacturing, power, semiconductors, and services. The expansion into the United States extends beyond specific regions as businesses set up production and sales bases throughout the country, making their operations progressively widespread.

    Kyoungho Kim, the head of the corporate banking group at Citi Korea, noted the bank’s history of aiding Korean corporates. He highlighted how Citi Korea has been instrumental in bridging the financial operations of these clients’ headquarters in Korea with their overseas subsidiaries through its Korea Desks in key global markets.

    Enhanced Support for Korean Corporates in the Midwest

    The Chicago Korea Desk’s introduction marks a step forward in extending this crucial service in North America. It aims to provide ample support for Korean corporates operating in the US Midwest, guiding them through their funding and financial transactions in alignment with the local financial environment.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the new Korea desk in Chicago launched by Citi?

    The Korea desk in Chicago is intended to expand Citi’s local financial support for Korean corporate clients penetrating the North American market.

    What industries are Korean corporate clients involved in?

    Korean corporate clients are involved in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, power, semiconductors, and services.

    What are Citi Korea’s efforts in supporting Korean corporate clients?

    Citi Korea has been pivotal in connecting the financial operations of Korean corporates’ headquarters with their overseas subsidiaries, providing consistent financial support in key global markets.

  • Pull&Bear Bids Farewell to Singapore: Iconic Spanish Retailer Closes Final Store

    Pull&Bear Bids Farewell to Singapore: Iconic Spanish Retailer Closes Final Store

    Pull&Bear, a renowned Spanish fashion label, has decided to withdraw its presence from Singapore following the closure of its remaining outlet at VivoCity Mall. The final day the store was open for business was February 22, 2026, as indicated by an announcement on the brand’s official website. Unfortunately, the company did not reveal the rationale behind the decision.

    Despite the closure, the fashion retailer has assured that customers are still able to return purchased items at the closed outlet. It encourages those who have recently made purchases to inspect their receipts to understand the return timeframe.

    Pull&Bear first launched in Singapore in 2006 with a prominent flagship store inaugurated at VivoCity. At the height of its operations, the brand had four operational outlets in the country.

    Pull&Bear is one of the principal brands under the umbrella of Spanish fashion conglomerate Inditex, which also owns other popular brands including Zara, Bershka, Massimo Dutti, and Stradivarius.

    The exit of Pull&Bear from Singapore is part of a larger global strategy of the parent company that involved the closure of over 100 outlets in the previous year. Furthermore, two other Inditex brands, Stradivarius and Bershka, have also confirmed the closure of their respective outlets in Singapore.

    Questions & Answers

    When did Pull&Bear close its last store in Singapore?
    The last Pull&Bear store in Singapore closed on February 22, 2026.

    Why did Pull&Bear decide to exit Singapore?
    The company did not provide specific reasons for the closure of its Singapore outlet.

    Are other Spanish fashion brands also closing outlets in Singapore?
    Yes, Stradivarius and Bershka, two other brands owned by Inditex, the parent company of Pull&Bear, have also closed their outlets in Singapore.

  • Retail Giant AS Watson Eyes Major Move into Australian Market with Potential $500M Pharmacy Acquisition

    Retail Giant AS Watson Eyes Major Move into Australian Market with Potential $500M Pharmacy Acquisition

    AS Watson, a Hong Kong-based health and beauty retailer, is potentially planning a move into the Australian market. The company is believed to be considering an acquisition of over 90 pharmacies in Australia.

    Expansion into Australia

    The company’s interest is reportedly focused on 92 Priceline pharmacies, previously under the operation of Infinity Pharmacy Group. This move will represent AS Watson’s debut into the Australian market. The company is said to be planning a comprehensive review of these pharmacies, which indicates serious intent towards the acquisition.

    It is suggested that executives from AS Watson had visited Australia several years prior and had discussions with the founding partner of Infinity. These visits may well have laid the groundwork for the current acquisition proposal. However, a spokesperson for the group declined to provide any comment on these market speculations.

    The Players Involved

    AS Watson is a part of CK Hutchison Holdings – a major commercial conglomerate based in Hong Kong. On the other side of the equation, the Priceline brand is owned by Australian conglomerate, Wesfarmers, while Infinity Pharmacy Group functions as a franchisee of the chain.

    In a recent development, Wesfarmers placed approximately half of Infinity’s stores into receivership, following a period of enduring financial difficulties. These financial struggles have led to the sale of the 92 Priceline stores, managed by Infinity’s administrator, Teneo.

    The Sale Process

    Teneo, responsible for the administration of the sale process, is said to be seeking a minimum sale price of AU$500 million for these 92 Priceline stores.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of this potential acquisition by AS Watson?
    The acquisition could mark AS Watson’s entry into the Australian market, expanding its global footprint.

    Who currently owns the Priceline brand and the affected pharmacies?
    The Priceline brand is owned by Wesfarmers, an Australian conglomerate. The affected pharmacies were previously operated by Infinity Pharmacy Group, a franchisee of the chain.

    What is the expected price for the sale of these 92 Priceline stores?
    The administrator overseeing the sale, Teneo, is reportedly seeking a minimum price of AU$500 million for the stores.

  • Coty Unveils AI-Enhanced Fragrance Concept Store in Hong Kong: A New Chapter in Perfume Retail Experience

    Coty Unveils AI-Enhanced Fragrance Concept Store in Hong Kong: A New Chapter in Perfume Retail Experience

    Coty, a leading global fragrance corporation, has inaugurated a unique retail concept store located in Mong Kok, Hong Kong. This revolutionary store, known as My Scent Edit, is situated within Langham Beauty. It is a multi-brand store, providing an immersive and interactive experience for its customers.

    Interactive Experiences and AI Incorporation

    My Scent Edit goes beyond the conventional shopping experience by incorporating various advanced technologies. It provides AI-powered digital consultations to assist customers in selecting the right products. The store also features trial zones where customers can sample various products before making a purchase. Adding to the interactive experience, the store includes an innovative AI photo booth.

    Coty has integrated AI technology into its operations following its collaboration announcement with an AI company. This partnership promised to enhance Coty’s business operations by expanding the utilization of the AI model, ChatGPT Enterprise. The company stated that its employees would have access to AI’s most robust models. This would aid their daily tasks and foster cross-functional collaboration.

    Coty underscores that human expertise remains at the core of its approach, but believes AI is a vital tool to stimulate efficiency. The company sees AI as a tool that complements and boosts the creativity and strategic thinking that uniquely defines its brands.

    Coty’s Hong Kong Presence

    In addition to the My Scent Edit store, Coty has also established another multi-brand concept, Citi Scent, located in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.

    Moreover, Coty’s products are widely available through various distribution channels. These include department stores such as Lane Crawford and Sogo, and retailer partners like Sephora Hong Kong, Sasa, Mannings, and Watsons.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new AI functionality in Coty’s My Scent Edit store?
    The store provides AI-powered digital consultations, trial zones, and an AI photo booth.

    What is Coty’s view on the role of AI in its operations?
    Coty maintains that human expertise is still fundamental, but believes that AI serves as an efficiency enhancer for creativity and strategic thinking.

    Where else is Coty’s presence notable in Hong Kong?
    Coty has a significant presence in Hong Kong with another multi-brand concept store, Citi Scent, in Tsim Sha Tsui, and broad product distribution through various department stores and retailer partners.

  • How Do I Buy Prescription Glasses for Driving?

    How Do I Buy Prescription Glasses for Driving?

    Why Clear Vision Is Crucial for Driving

    Keeping Your Vision Prescription up to Date

    Choosing the Right Lenses for Driving

    Finding the Perfect Frames for Driving Comfort and Safety

    Getting Your Prescription Driving Glasses Quickly With Eyemart Express

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Road safety is nonnegotiable, and relying on prescription glasses for clear vision means ensuring you and other drivers are safe while commuting. Whether you’re new to eyewear or are seeking better options for driving, following this guide can help you make the right choice. Noting the key factors mentioned enables you to make informed decisions about standout driving prescription eyewear.

    Why Clear Vision Is Crucial for Driving

    Clear vision behind the wheel allows you to judge distance, speed, and the movements of other vehicles and pedestrians. While states differ in their laws, most require drivers to meet vision standards, typically at least 20/40 acuity in one eye, to drive without glasses. You’ll need to wear your prescription glasses when taking your driver’s license test.

    Poor vision can lead to accidents, so prioritizing eye care with regular testing will enhance your driving experience and keep the roads safer for everyone.

    Keeping Your Vision Prescription up to Date

    The foundation for reliable driving glasses is a current prescription from a qualified optometrist. Your prescription will include some critical numbers that indicate your vision requirements. For instance, the SPH (sphere) reading represents the lens power needed to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness, while the CYL (cylinder) figure indicates the required astigmatism correction. Additionally, the AXIS value suggests the orientation of astigmatism.

    While many eyewear retailers don’t conduct exams on-site, many top ones often partner with local optometrists to simplify the process for customers. This collaboration makes it easier to obtain up-to-date prescriptions, ensuring the glasses you choose provide optimal correction for safe driving. Keeping your prescription current enhances your vision and also significantly contributes to your overall safety while on the road.

    Choosing the Right Lenses for Driving

    Choosing the right lenses for driving can enhance visual clarity and comfort on the road. Besides your prescription itself, selecting appropriate lens options can significantly improve visibility and reduce common driving hazards, making your time behind the wheel safer and more enjoyable.

    Anti-Reflective (AR) Coatings for Glare Reduction

    Anti-reflective (AR) coatings minimize glare from headlights, streetlights and the sun’s rays. This is particularly beneficial for driving at night, when bright lights create distractions or hazards. Opting for AR-coated lenses ensures clearer vision, helping you stay focused on the road. Top retail eyewear outlets will provide expert support in selecting the right coatings tailored to your needs, improving your confidence behind the wheel.

    Polarized Lenses for Daytime Driving

    Polarized lenses are specifically designed for daytime driving, cutting glare from other vehicles and reflective surfaces, such as wet roads. They filter light, enhance contrast and improve vision clarity, which is ideal for bright, sunny days. They also reduce eye strain by providing 100% UVA/UVB protection outdoors.

    Light-Responsive (Photochromic) Lenses

    Photochromic lenses are light-responsive, offering 100% UV protection and adjusting tints according to lighting conditions. However, while they’re highly effective against the sun outdoors, many of these lenses don’t darken effectively inside a car because windshields can block the UV light. You should consider this limitation and speak to your provider about alternatives to ensure optimal visibility while driving.

    Finding the Perfect Frames for Driving Comfort and Safety

    Choosing the right frames is as important as having the best lenses. They can enhance your driving experience by maintaining clear vision and minimizing distractions. Here are some key considerations:

    • Thin temples: Opt for frames with thin temples to maximize unobstructed peripheral vision, which helps with safe lane changing and merging into traffic.
    • Lightweight materials: Choose a lightweight frame to reduce pressure on your ears and nose, ensuring additional comfort, particularly on long drives.
    • Proper fit: Your glasses shouldn’t slip or slide on your face while driving. A secure fit will keep you focused on the road rather than create distractions by requiring constant eyewear adjustments.

    The ideal eyewear retailer should offer a wide selection of frames that cater to any style and budget. That way, you can find designer glasses at your price point that seamlessly combine your driving safety and fashion sense.

    Getting Your Prescription Driving Glasses Quickly With Eyemart Express

    Eyemart Express is a leading optical retailer known for its commitment to providing new, quality eyewear before your coffee gets cold. When life happens, the company is there to help, with a goal of emphasizing speed without sacrificing attentive customer service. Eyemart Express provides expert support and a wide range of options that meet diverse customer needs.

    When you need new glasses for driving, Eyemart Express makes the process incredibly straightforward. Simply bring in your current prescription, and its knowledgeable staff will assist you in selecting the perfect frames and lenses for your safety and comfort. Whether you’re looking for lightweight designs or thin-templed options that enhance peripheral vision, this provider’s got you covered.

    If you need a new prescription, Eyemart Express can help you schedule an appointment with a partnering eyewear specialist or you can book one through its website. What truly sets the retailer apart is its in-store labs, which let you get your new glasses in a moment. Most orders are ready in no time, allowing you to hit the road with confidence and clarity.

    With its focus on designer glasses at prices that fit your wallet, you don’t have to compromise on style or functionality. Eyemart Express ensures you leave with the best eyewear solution, making your time on the road safer and more enjoyable.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Consider these common questions when looking for a new pair of glasses.

    Can I Use My Everyday Glasses for Driving?

    Yes, you can, provided they correct your distance vision to meet the legal standards. If your current glasses are only for reading, computer work or other close-up tasks, they are likely not suitable and can be dangerous to drive with. If you need glasses while driving, contacting an optometrist or a top retailer to arrange a new prescription and upgraded eyewear is essential.

    Do “Night Driving Glasses” With Yellow Lenses Improve Safety?

    The American Academy of Ophthalmology found that yellow-lensed glasses do not improve driving safety at night. A better option is to use clear, prescription lenses with AR coatings to reduce glare without blocking light.

    How Often Should I Get My Eyes Checked for a Driving Prescription?

    For most drivers who wear glasses or contacts, eye professionals recommend a biennial exam to check a driving prescription. However, this frequency may vary based on age and specific health conditions. An annual checkup is more advisable when you turn 65.

    Drive With Confidence in Your New Glasses

    Purchasing the right prescription glasses for driving is not difficult. By focusing on quality brands and key features like lens coatings and your frame fit, you can make informed choices that improve your experience. Consulting professionals, such as those at Eyemart Express, can provide insights to help you find the perfect eyewear. That way, you’ll improve your vision and ensure a safer journey on the road.

  • Bode Makes a Bold Entry into Asia with Novel Tokyo Flagship Store

    Bode Makes a Bold Entry into Asia with Novel Tokyo Flagship Store

    Bode, the New York-based brand, has inaugurated its first independent store in Tokyo, marking a definitive retail existence in Asia and continuing its worldwide growth.

    Store Location and Strategy

    The store has been strategically established in Yoyogi-Uehara, a residential locale renowned for its boutique shops and specialty coffee houses. Choosing to set up shop outside of the city’s known luxury retail districts indicates a targeted emphasis on fostering community ties and neighborhood ethos, as opposed to relying on the conventional high-end retail traffic.

    Bode was initiated in 2016 by Emily Adams Bode Aujla and has since been celebrated for its collections that draw inspiration from history and are crafted using antique and vintage fabrics.

    A Collaborative Interior Design

    The Tokyo store was designed in collaboration with the Los Angeles-based Green River Project studio. The design elements of the store include bespoke woodwork, classic furnishings, and details reminiscent of a residential setting, all aimed at generating a homely ambiance that reflects the brand’s narrative-centric approach.

    Store Offerings and Cultural Significance

    The store showcases the complete range of Bode’s men’s and women’s ready-to-wear collections, in addition to pieces exclusive to Japan. The company aims for the store to serve more than just a point of sale, envisioning it as a cultural pivot that encourages a deeper connection with its local clientele.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the location of Bode’s new store in Tokyo?
    The new store is located in Yoyogi-Uehara, a residential district known for independent boutiques and specialty cafes.

    What makes Bode’s collections unique?
    Bode’s collections are unique for their historical influence and their use of antique and vintage textiles.

    What is the purpose of the new store beyond serving as a point of sale?
    The store is designed to be a cultural touchpoint that helps to foster a deeper engagement with its local customer base.