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Tag: Store

  • End of an Era: Iconic Isetan Department Store Shuts Down 15-Year-Old Singapore Outlet

    End of an Era: Iconic Isetan Department Store Shuts Down 15-Year-Old Singapore Outlet

    The renowned Japanese department store, Isetan, recently ceased operations at its NEX shopping mall location in Singapore. The store, which had been in operation for 15 years, sold a wide range of items, including home goods, fashion, and beauty products. The closure came on April 26, following the expiration of the store’s lease.

    A Fond Farewell

    Isetan made the announcement of the closure via a Facebook post, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all its loyal customers and stakeholders who had supported the store for the past 15 years. A touching video shared online showed employees bidding their final goodbyes to customers on the store’s last operational day.

    A large crowd of shoppers gathered at the store’s entrance, where the store manager gave a farewell speech. In it, he showed appreciation for the customers’ unwavering support and kindness throughout the years. “Today is our last day of business,” he declared, adding warm wishes of health and happiness to the store’s patrons.

    Isetan’s Journey in Singapore

    Since its initial footprint in Singapore in 1972, Isetan has become a household name in the city-state. The opening of its Havelock outlet marked the arrival of the first Japanese department store in Singapore.

    At its height in 2013, Isetan operated six outlets across the country. However, the firm has had to close several stores in recent years. The most recent closures, prior to the NEX location, were the Tampines Mall store in November, after 30 years of operation, the Isetan Katong at the Parkway Parade shopping center in March 2022, and the Isetan Jurong at the Westgate Mall in March 2020.

    Looking Ahead

    The reasons behind the closures include a careful evaluation of local conditions and the consideration of future profitability. As Isetan continues to adapt to changing market conditions, its future strategies, operations, and presence in Singapore will undoubtedly be keenly watched.

    Questions & Answers

    Why did Isetan close its NEX outlet?
    The Japanese department store Isetan closed its NEX outlet due to the expiration of its lease on April 26.

    How long has Isetan been operating in Singapore?
    Isetan has been present in Singapore since 1972, when its Havelock outlet launched as the first Japanese department store in the city-state.

    How many stores did Isetan operate at its peak?
    Isetan operated six outlets across Singapore at its peak in 2013.

  • Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    Experience the Fusion of Innovation and Tradition at Hermes’ Revamped Sogo Fuxing Store in Taipei

    The luxury brand Hermès recently celebrated the grand reopening of its outlet located in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei. This event comes after a considerable period of renovations, reflecting the brand’s innovative and dynamic spirit that mirrors the vibrant essence of the city.

    Originating in 2007, the three-tiered store now boasts a modern look with its ceramic tile facelift. The French architectural firm, RDAI, is the mastermind behind the redesigned aesthetics of the Hermès store.

    Upon entering the establishment, visitors are instantly enveloped by a luxurious universe of silk. The space is tastefully arranged with fashion jewelry displays on the right and an enticing array of perfumes and beauty products on the left. Enhancing this opulent ambiance is the house’s signature Grecques lighting, adding a refined touch to the overall shopping experience.

    The redesign also features screen walls to define the space and accentuate Hermès’ commitment to local artisans. These walls are adorned with intricate thread compositions crafted locally and blended with Hermès silk offcuts, showcasing the brand’s marriage of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

    As customers delve deeper into the store, they will come across an intimate and exclusive section dedicated to the brand’s exquisite jewelry and timepieces.

    Art connoisseurs will appreciate the store’s unique collection of artworks sourced from the Emile Hermès collection, as well as the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’. These carefully curated pieces add an artistic touch, rendering the store not just a shopping destination, but a place of inspiration and creativity.

    In conclusion, Hermès stated: “This revitalized store welcomes both our loyal patrons and newcomers alike to explore Hermès’ timeless creations and craftsmanship within a bold, innovative setting.”

    Questions & Answers

    When was the Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, first opened?
    The Hermès store in Sogo Fuxing Mall, Taipei, initially opened its doors in 2007.

    Who was behind the renovation and redesign of the Hermès store?
    The renovation and redesign of the Hermès store were carried out by the French architecture agency, RDAI.

    What unique features does the renovated Hermès store offer to its customers?
    The renovated Hermès store offers a luxurious shopping experience with its silk universe, fashion jewelry, perfumes and beauty products. It also showcases locally crafted thread compositions and a selection of artworks from the Emile Hermès collection and the Hermès ‘Collection of Contemporary Photographs’.

  • Matin Kim in Partnership with Musinsa Launches Flagship Store in Tokyo’s Fashion Hub

    Matin Kim in Partnership with Musinsa Launches Flagship Store in Tokyo’s Fashion Hub

    Matin Kim, a renowned fashion brand from South Korea, is set to expand its presence in Japan with the inauguration of a flagship store in Tokyo. The move is a part of the brand’s continuing collaboration with Musinsa.

    A New Addition to Tokyo’s Fashion Scene

    The upcoming store will be situated in Harajuku, a neighborhood widely known for its vibrant fashion culture. Spanning two floors, the outlet will occupy roughly 195 square meters. Slated to open its doors on April 26th, the new location marks Matin Kim’s third establishment in Japan, following the successful launches in Shibuya and Nagoya.

    Unlike its previous outlets located in shopping malls, this new store stands out as Matin Kim’s first standalone store in the country. The brand perceives this as a significant progression and intends to utilize the venue as a platform to exhibit its unique identity and innovative approach to fashion design.

    Offering an Enhanced Shopping Experience

    Apart from showcasing its extensive array of regular products, the store will feature Matin Kim’s latest Spring/Summer 2026 collection and exclusive limited-edition items. Additionally, the brand plans to enrich the customer experience by hosting a variety of experiential events and other engaging activities.

    Matin Kim, a portfolio brand of Hago Haus, a premier brand incubator in South Korea, currently boasts approximately 70 stores at both domestic and international locations.

    In November of 2024, Matin Kim entered into an exclusive agency agreement with Musinsa for the Japanese market. This led to the opening of its first permanent store in Japan at Miyashita Park in Shibuya, Tokyo, in April last year.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about Matin Kim’s new store in Tokyo?
    The new store, located in the Harajuku district, is the brand’s first standalone store in Japan. It will also serve as a showcase for the brand’s identity and creative vision.

    What can shoppers expect at the new Matin Kim store?
    Shoppers can look forward to a wide range of products, including Matin Kim’s latest Spring/Summer 2026 collection and exclusive limited-edition items. The store will also host experiential events and other activities to enhance the shopping experience.

    What is Matin Kim’s history in Japan?
    Matin Kim entered the Japanese market in November 2024, in partnership with Musinsa. The brand opened its first permanent store in Japan at Miyashita Park in Tokyo’s Shibuya in April the following year. The Harajuku store is the brand’s third in Japan.

  • Stacked Store Revolutionizes Singapore Retail With First Standalone Shop: A Blend of Unique Brands, Immersive Experience & Dynamic Events

    Stacked Store Revolutionizes Singapore Retail With First Standalone Shop: A Blend of Unique Brands, Immersive Experience & Dynamic Events

    Stacked Store is set to launch its inaugural independent retail establishment in Singapore’s New Bahru district on May 16, broadening its physical presence following its predominant operation as an online platform.

    A New Take on Retail

    Sited within The Factory, this establishment is envisaged as a hybrid of retail and exploration. It showcases an expertly curated assortment of independent brands, unique home decor items, and design-centric products that ordinary mass-market stores seldom offer.

    The interior design follows a bare, industrial style, with the primary structure of the space made up of raw scaffolding. This contrasting backdrop is designed to accentuate the products on display while promoting a more leisurely, tactile shopping experience.

    Unique Features

    One of the primary attractions is the brand’s trademark living room setting, which has been reimagined for the new location in partnership with W Atelier.

    However, the venue is not just for shopping. It also serves as a platform for engaging customers with the brand. Stacked Store intends to organize workshops, collaborative pop-up events, and exclusive product launches. It also plans to debut its forthcoming in-house brand.

    Expanding Physical Presence

    Earlier this month, the retailer broadened its offline footprint by opening the IMBA Store – the exclusive gift shop for interactive exhibitions at Gardens by the Bay.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the concept behind the new Stacked Store location in Singapore’s New Bahru district?
    The new location is a hybrid of retail and discovery, offering a curated selection of independent brands and unique home decor items. The store is designed to provide a leisurely, tactile shopping experience.

    What unique features does the Stacked Store offer?
    The store houses a reimagined version of the brand’s signature living room setting. It will also serve as a platform for brand engagement, hosting workshops, collaborative pop-ups, exclusive product launches, and unveiling its in-house brand.

    Has Stacked Store expanded its physical presence in other ways?
    Yes, the retailer launched the IMBA Store, the official gift shop for interactive exhibitions at Gardens by the Bay, earlier this month to broaden its offline presence.

  • Songmont’s Fusion of Old and New: Grand Reopening of Shanghai Flagship Store Reveals Exciting Redesign

    Songmont’s Fusion of Old and New: Grand Reopening of Shanghai Flagship Store Reveals Exciting Redesign

    Songmont, a premium designer brand based in China, has recently unveiled its revamped flagship store located in Shanghai. The store’s redesign showcases a unique blend of original and novel elements aimed at enhancing the layout and shopping experience for its customers.

    The Concept Behind the Revamp

    The original design concept for the store, known as ‘Windy Mountain Valley’, was a nod to the picturesque landscapes sculpted by wind and terrain. This concept is retained in the redesigned space, still encapsulating the harmony of nature and design.

    The updated store retains elements from its initial design while introducing new features that add more depth and definition to the space.

    Balancing Old and New

    Having been a part of the company’s journey for over five years, the flagship store in Shanghai holds significant importance for Songmont. The revamped store is not just about bringing in new elements but also about preserving the old, creating a unique blend of old and new.

    The updated store space now presents a harmonious blend of the familiar, a nod to the store’s past, and the introduction of fresh elements, signaling a warm welcome to new possibilities.

    About Songmont

    Songmont is a designer brand known for its premium leather bags and accessories that are not only functional but also carry a distinctive Eastern-inspired aesthetic. Among its assortment of products are the Luna Bag, Song Bag, Gather Bag, Drippy Tote, and Chocolate Bag. These are often characterized by their convertible designs, offering versatility to their users.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the concept behind the redesign of Songmont’s flagship store in Shanghai?
    The redesign retains the original design concept, ‘Windy Mountain Valley’, while introducing new elements to add more depth and definition to the store layout.

    What does the revamped store represent for Songmont?
    The updated store space presents a harmonious blend of the familiar, a nod to the store’s past, and the introduction of fresh elements, signaling a warm welcome to new possibilities and growth.

    What products does Songmont specialise in?
    Songmont specialises in premium, functional leather bags and accessories featuring Eastern-inspired aesthetics. Their product lineup includes the Luna Bag, Song Bag, Gather Bag, Drippy Tote, and Chocolate Bag, which often feature convertible designs.

  • KK Mart Announces Massive IPO: A Game-Changer in the Malaysian Convenience Store Industry

    KK Mart Announces Massive IPO: A Game-Changer in the Malaysian Convenience Store Industry

    KK Mart Retail Bhd, the parent company running the KK Super Mart and KK Mart convenience store chain, has revealed plans for an initial public offering (IPO) on Bursa Malaysia. The news came as the company filed a draft prospectus with the Securities Commission Malaysia earlier this week.

    Details of the IPO

    Although the prospectus does not provide specific details about the IPO price, overall fundraising size or listing schedule, it does confirm that the IPO will involve up to 840 million shares. This sum includes the sale of as many as 630 million existing shares, along with the issuing of 210 million new shares.

    Current Operations

    At present, KK Mart operates 996 convenience stores throughout Malaysia. The stores provide customers with everyday essentials and services, such as bill payments and mobile top-ups.

    Use of IPO Proceeds

    The funds raised from the new shares will be allocated to various areas of the business. These include expanding store operations and distribution centers, investing in the digital sphere and IT capabilities, repaying bank loans, and covering the expenses associated with listing.

    The Maybank Investment Bank will serve in multiple roles for this offering, including as the principal advisor, the sole bookrunner, underwriter, and placement agent.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the expected IPO price and total fundraising size for KK Mart Retail Bhd?
    As of now, the company has not disclosed any specific details about the IPO price or the total fundraising size.

    How many convenience stores does KK Mart currently operate?
    KK Mart currently operates 996 convenience stores across Malaysia.

    How will the proceeds from the new shares be used?
    The proceeds from the new shares will be used for expanding store operations and distribution centers, investing in digital and IT capabilities, repaying bank loans, and covering listing-related expenses.

  • Birkenstock Bolsters Japanese Presence with Grand Opening of Osaka Flagship Store

    Birkenstock Bolsters Japanese Presence with Grand Opening of Osaka Flagship Store

    Birkenstock, the renowned footwear brand, has broadened its retail footprint in Japan with the inauguration of a grand flagship outlet in the Shinsaibashi district of Osaka.

    The new store is spread across two floors, following the lead of previous concept stores that were launched in Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Nagoya. This new addition raises the tally of permanent, directly operated Birkenstock stores in Japan to 12.

    Located in Shinsaibashi, the outlet stands as one of the largest street-level retail spaces for the brand in the country.

    Store Design and Features

    The design of the store is based on a minimalist interior concept that places a premium on product display and materials used. The interior is decked out predominantly in white, offset by earthy wall finishes. The design elements subtly reference the brand’s signature cork footbed structure.

    The ground floor of the store is dedicated to the Care Essentials range, setting up an interactive space for customers to sample foot and body care merchandise. The upper floor showcases the brand’s comprehensive footwear collection. This includes staple sandal designs, clogs, shoes, boots, and the latest additions for the season.

    Questions & Answers

    Where is Birkenstock’s newest store located?
    The newest Birkenstock store is located in the Shinsaibashi district of Osaka, Japan.

    How many directly operated Birkenstock stores are there in Japan now?
    With the opening of the new store in Shinsaibashi, the total number of directly operated Birkenstock stores in Japan has risen to 12.

    What is unique about the design of the new Birkenstock store?
    The design of the new Birkenstock store is based on a stripped-back interior concept, featuring a predominately white palette contrasted with earthy wall finishes. It also incorporates design elements referencing Birkenstock’s signature cork footbed structure.

  • Bonia Transforms Shopping Experience with Innovative Store Design in Kuala Lumpur

    Bonia Transforms Shopping Experience with Innovative Store Design in Kuala Lumpur

    Malaysia’s lifestyle brand Bonia has launched a flagship store in Kuala Lumpur, revealing a unique retail concept that combines customer engagement and innovative spatial design.

    Exterior and Interior Design

    The new store boasts a colonnade-style exterior adorned with red brick tiles, reminiscent of traditional street architecture. Inside, the space showcases a layout composed of four interconnected rooms, each revolving around a major display area. This design offers a more immersive and easily navigable shopping experience to the customers.

    Distinct Functional Spaces

    Each room within the store is assigned a unique function. Some of the areas draw inspiration from different environments, such as a library, dressing room, and lounge. The transition between these distinct spaces is marked by varying color schemes, including hues of red, orange, and terracotta.

    A New Retail Concept

    Bonia’s concept aims to make the retail environment more interactive. This is achieved by merging product presentations with flexible design elements. The brand’s focus on creating a dynamic and engaging retail experience is clearly reflected in this innovative approach.

    The opening of the Kuala Lumpur store comes in the wake of Bonia’s international expansions, notably in Vietnam. However, the company had to withdraw a joint venture in the country earlier, following a provision for losses amounting to US$1.3 million.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique concept of Bonia’s new store in Kuala Lumpur?
    The store integrates customer engagement with innovative spatial design, creating a dynamic and immersive shopping experience.

    How is the interior of the Bonia store structured?
    The store’s interior comprises four interconnected rooms, each assigned a unique function and theme. The rooms are designed to resemble a library, dressing room, and lounge, among others.

    What led to Bonia’s earlier withdrawal from a joint venture in Vietnam?
    Bonia had to exit a joint venture in Vietnam due to a provision for losses which amounted to US$1.3 million.

  • Byredo Elevates Luxury Shopping Experience with New Flagship Store in Hong Kong’s Central District

    Byredo Elevates Luxury Shopping Experience with New Flagship Store in Hong Kong’s Central District

    Luxury fragrance brand, Byredo, has further solidified its presence in Hong Kong’s high-end retail sector by launching a flagship store in the city’s Central district.

    The New Store’s Unique Design

    The store, situated on Gough Street, boasts a unique architectural design, drawing inspiration from traditional shopfront gates for its stainless steel exterior. Inside, the space adopts a minimalist aesthetic enhanced by a thoughtful selection of materials. Granite flooring, textured plaster walls, and exposed steel elements create a modern, industrial ambiance. Wood and burgundy accents are used sparingly, adding warmth and richness to the overall scheme.

    Prioritizing spaciousness and meticulous product display over cluttered merchandising, the store design aims to offer an enjoyable and comfortable shopping experience.

    Product Range and Customer Experience

    The store’s primary focus is on the brand’s fragrance collection. However, the brand’s body care, home, and cosmetic product ranges are also featured, each having its designated display area. The built-in sink within the store allows customers to try out the products, reflecting the brand’s commitment to interactive and experiential beauty retail.

    Byredo, in a statement, eloquently described the new store as “more than a store, it is an atmosphere. A distilled expression of material, memory, and movement.”

    Byredo’s Expansion in Hong Kong

    The Gough Street store marks Byredo’s second flagship store in Hong Kong. The brand first entered the Hong Kong market in 2015, and just seven years later, it launched its first flagship store on Fashion Walk in Causeway Bay in 2022.

    Questions & Answers

    Where is Byredo’s new flagship store located?
    The new flagship store is located in Hong Kong’s Central district, on Gough Street.

    What is the main focus of the product range in the new store?
    The store primarily showcases Byredo’s fragrance collection, supplemented by body care, home, and cosmetic products.

    When did Byredo first enter the Hong Kong market?
    Byredo made its initial foray into the Hong Kong market in 2015.

  • Thriving Metro Retail Surpasses $662M Revenue Mark, Propelled by Store Expansion and Steady Sales Growth

    Thriving Metro Retail Surpasses $662M Revenue Mark, Propelled by Store Expansion and Steady Sales Growth

    Metro Retail Stores Group (MRSGI) has achieved remarkable revenue growth in FY25, exceeding the PhP40-billion (approximately US$662.8 million) milestone. This growth was fueled by consistent sales growth, margin expansion, and ongoing network development.

    Income and Sales Data

    MRSGI reported a net income of PhP682.64 million (US$12.2 million), marking a 12 per cent increase from the previous year. This substantial increase was driven by improved operational efficiency and the contributions derived from new store launches.

    The company’s total sales for the year amounted to PhP41.56 billion (around US$742 million), representing a 4.9 per cent increase compared to 2024 figures. The same-store sales growth was 0.6 per cent, indicating steady underlying demand despite the challenging operating conditions.

    Strategic Execution and Growth

    “Last year marked a period of disciplined strategy implementation and tangible impact for MRSGI,” stated Joselito G Orense, the company’s president and COO.

    “Through our strategic expansion towards regions of high growth and the introduction of innovative store designs, our market presence was significantly enhanced. We witnessed increased sales and margins and improved cash earnings. These outcomes illustrate the commitment and dedication of our nationwide teams and our commitment to providing customers with modern retail experiences while pursuing sustainable, long-term growth.”

    Network Expansion and Sustainability

    MRSGI broadened its presence with the introduction of 10 new stores in Luzon and the Visayas during the past year. This expansion included additional Metro Value Mart outlets and a new Metro Supermarket and Department Store in Bais, Negros Oriental.

    The company also continued to develop its Metro Corner format. The inauguration of its Mandani Bay store signified a move into the elite urban retail sector.

    MRSGI also advanced its sustainability initiatives, implementing solar photovoltaic systems in up to 19 stores to aid in energy cost management. By the end of FY25, MRSGI was operating 81 stores across the nation in its primary retail formats.

    Questions & Answers

    What drove the increase in MRSGI’s net income in FY25?
    The increase in net income was driven by improved operational efficiency and the contributions from new store openings.

    How has MRSGI expanded its network?
    The company opened 10 new stores across Luzon and the Visayas, including additional Metro Value Mart branches and a new Metro Supermarket and Department Store in Bais, Negros Oriental.

    What sustainability initiatives has MRSGI undertaken?
    The company has implemented solar photovoltaic systems in up to 19 of its stores to manage energy costs more efficiently.

  • French Chic Meets Thai Style: Maje Unveils First Concept Store in Bangkok’s IconSiam

    French Chic Meets Thai Style: Maje Unveils First Concept Store in Bangkok’s IconSiam

    The French fashion label Maje has unveiled its inaugural concept store in Thailand. The new establishment is situated in Siam Takashimaya, part of the renowned Bangkok shopping complex, IconSiam.

    New Store, New Design Concept

    Positioned on the M Floor of Takashimaya, the shop introduces a rejuvenated design idea that marries Parisian chic with a contemporary, feminine sensibility. The store’s layout was crafted in collaboration with designer Valeriane Lazard, who sought inspiration from the Mediterranean’s unique aesthetic, focusing on natural materials and light.

    Visitors are welcomed with a dark-glazed facade, which leads into a more luminous interior space. The finishing touches include pink terracotta floor tiles from Raujolles, hammered wrought-iron racks, ceramic display stands crafted in Portugal, and a centrally located curved sofa.

    The store utilises materials like wood, wicker, and lime-coated walls consistently throughout its design, along with textured glass shelves and mirrors that subtly alter their appearance under different lighting conditions throughout the day.

    Spring/Summer 2026 Collection

    In addition to its stylish interior, the boutique showcases Maje’s Spring/Summer 2026 range, which draws heavily from the maritime theme. The collection fuses practical elements such as hoods and workwear inspirations with more prep-oriented details. It also features loose silhouettes, lightweight materials, culottes, and designs that are reminiscent of sails.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the design inspiration behind Maje’s new store in Thailand?
    The design concept for Maje’s new store combines Parisian style with a modern, feminine approach. It was created in collaboration with designer Valeriane Lazard, who drew inspiration from the Mediterranean, emphasising the use of natural materials and light.

    What kind of materials and elements are used in the interior of the new Maje store?
    The store uses natural materials like wood, wicker, and lime-coated walls. Other design elements include pink terracotta floor tiles, hammered wrought-iron racks, ceramic display stands from Portugal, and a curved sofa situated in the store’s centre.

    What are some key features of Maje’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection?
    The Spring/Summer 2026 collection is centred around a maritime theme. It combines practical elements like hoods and workwear inspirations with preppy touches. The range also features loose silhouettes, lightweight fabrics, culottes, and sail-inspired shapes.

  • Shell Thailand Teams Up with Tops Daily for First Convenience+ Store Launch in Southeast Asia

    Shell Thailand Teams Up with Tops Daily for First Convenience+ Store Launch in Southeast Asia

    Shell Thailand has initiated a significant expansion in its convenience retail sector across Southeast Asia, marking this advancement with the launch of its inaugural Convenience+ store. This venture has been developed in partnership with Tops Daily, a constituent of Central Food Retail.

    New Retail Format for a New Era

    The pilot store, located in Nonthaburi, is the vanguard of Shell Mobility & Convenience’s next-generation retail format in Asia. The forward-thinking design of this store aims to augment the in-store customer experience, fortify retail partnerships, and establish a replicable model for sustained growth. This ambitious strategy was outlined by Theswinder Kaur, the global alliance and commercial head at Shell.

    This Convenience+ outlet in Southeast Asia is the first of its kind, modeled on the successful collaborative approach taken by Shell Oman and AlMeera. Further locations are slated for launch across Thailand before the year’s end.

    Central Retail Corporation’s Redefined Food Business Units

    The unveiling of this new Shell venture has been closely followed by the restructuring of the Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited (CRC), another significant player in the retail sector. From March 1, CRC has taken steps to amalgamate its three primary food business units, bringing them under the umbrella of the Central Retail Food Group.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of Shell’s new Convenience+ store in Thailand?
    The Convenience+ store is an integral part of Shell’s strategy to expand its convenience retail sector across Southeast Asia. The store aims to enhance the in-store customer experience and strengthen retail partnerships.

    How does the new Convenience+ store reflect Shell’s future retail plans?
    The Convenience+ store in Nonthaburi introduces Shell’s next-generation retail format in Asia. The scalable model is designed for sustained growth and is expected to be replicated across many more locations in Thailand.

    How does the Central Retail Corporation fit into recent shifts in the retail sector?
    Central Retail Corporation has recently consolidated its three major food business units under the Central Retail Food Group. This move closely follows the launch of Shell’s Convenience+ store and indicates significant changes in the retail sector.

  • Singapore’s Castlery Makes Stylish U.S Entrance with Flagship Store in Manhattan’s Premier Chelsea District

    Singapore’s Castlery Makes Stylish U.S Entrance with Flagship Store in Manhattan’s Premier Chelsea District

    Singaporean furniture company Castlery has launched its debut physical store in the United States, choosing the Chelsea area of Manhattan for its flagship site.

    The 3,000 square foot showroom represents a significant shift for the brand, moving from an e-commerce focus to establishing a permanent brick-and-mortar presence in the U.S. market. The brand’s 10-year lease demonstrates its long-term commitment to this market, rather than a short-term experiment in traditional retail.

    Showroom Design

    Situated in the historic Ladies’ Mile district, the showroom has been thoughtfully designed to cater to urban lifestyles. It showcases 17 room sets that highlight space-efficient layouts, crafted specifically for city apartments.

    The interior design of the space blends Eastern and Western influences, with layered textures and materials like rattan. It also incorporates subtle nods to iconic New York interior design styles.

    Extended Customer Experience

    Beyond showcasing its product line, the showroom will also offer personalized interior styling consultations. This service is part of Castlery’s commitment to expand its customer experience beyond the traditional transactional model of retail.

    Co-founder of Castlery, Declan Ee, emphasized their commitment to the U.S. market. “New York isn’t a place you test, it’s a place you commit,” he stated. “Opening our first U.S. store here reflects how seriously we take the American customer and how seriously we take our craft. This isn’t about doing it fast. It’s about doing it right.”

    The company originally started to explore the possibility of physical retail locations in Manhattan in 2018, prior to its U.S. e-commerce launch. However, these plans were halted due to the pandemic, and efforts were redirected towards strengthening logistics, operations, and enhancing the overall customer experience in preparation for a future physical store.

    In the search for the perfect location, Castlery reviewed over 200 potential sites across a two-year period before ultimately choosing its site in Chelsea. This represents a highly selective approach to its first foray into U.S. retail.

    Last year, Castlery expanded its reach to the European market, launching an e-commerce store in the United Kingdom.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the size of the new Castlery showroom in the U.S.?
    The showroom is 3,000 square feet.

    What additional services will the showroom offer beyond showcasing products?
    The showroom will offer personalized interior styling consultations to its customers.

    When did Castlery first begin considering physical retail locations in the U.S.?
    Castlery first began exploring physical retail opportunities in the U.S. in 2018.

  • Domino’s China Ignites Growth with Aggressive Store Expansion: A Story of Record Revenues and National Penetration

    Domino’s China Ignites Growth with Aggressive Store Expansion: A Story of Record Revenues and National Penetration

    DPC Dash, the franchisee responsible for operating Domino’s outlets across China, has announced significant revenue growth and an ambitious store expansion campaign throughout the country in 2025.

    Impressive Revenue Growth

    DPC Dash declared a 24.8% rise in revenue on a year-over-year basis, amounting to RMB 5.38 billion, equivalent to approximately US$778 million. This robust growth is a testament to the company’s thriving operations and successful market strategies.

    ‘Go Deeper, Go Broader’

    In terms of expansion, the company has continued to adopt a disciplined strategy titled ‘Go Deeper, Go Broader’. This strategy involves penetrating deeper into existing cities while also stretching out to new locations. Aileen Wang, CEO of DPC Dash, confirmed this during the earnings call, stating that the company had effectively extended its infiltration in existing cities and extended its footprint to new areas.

    Strong performance was observed in the newly opened stores within these growth markets. These outlets have recorded average daily sales that surpass the historical averages, thereby illustrating the appealing unit economics and capital efficiency of the franchise’s development model.

    Aggressive Expansion and Store Performance

    DPC Dash launched 307 additional stores in 2025, thereby entering 21 new cities and expanding its network to a total of 1315 stores across 60 cities. The franchise’s Tier 1 city markets witnessed positive same-store sales growth throughout the year. Furthermore, the first 30-day sales records of new stores held all top spots globally within Domino’s records as of the end of January.

    Helen Wu, CFO of DPC Dash, highlighted the company’s gains in efficiency and the benefits of scale, stating that these elements have enhanced profitability and laid a robust foundation for long-lasting, sustainable success.

    Loyalty Program and Future Plans

    DPC Dash also reported a surge in engagement in its loyalty program, which grew by 45.3% in 2025, up from 24.5 million members in 2024 to 35.6 million members.

    Looking forward, DPC Dash plans to inaugurate approximately 350 new stores in the fiscal year 2026. As of March 20, the company has already opened 140 new stores, with 14 under construction and 65 signed for future development.

    Questions & Answers

    What is DPC Dash’s ‘Go Deeper, Go Broader’ strategy?
    This is a disciplined expansion plan that focuses on deepening the penetration into existing cities and extending reach into new markets.

    What is the overall growth of DPC Dash’s loyalty program?
    The company’s loyalty program grew by 45.3% in 2025, reaching a total of 35.6 million members.

    What are the future expansion plans of DPC Dash?
    DPC Dash plans to open approximately 350 new stores in the fiscal year 2026, with a significant number already opened, under construction or assigned for future development.

  • H&M: Shrinking Store Network Hits Sales, But Profits Skyrocket Amid Optimized Portfolio

    H&M: Shrinking Store Network Hits Sales, But Profits Skyrocket Amid Optimized Portfolio

    In the first fiscal quarter, Swedish fashion powerhouse H&M witnessed a decrease in sales, corresponding with a reduction in the total number of store locations.

    Sales Performance

    By the end of the quarter, which concluded on February 28, net sales were reported to be SEK49.6 billion (US$5.2 billion)—a 1% year-on-year decrease in constant currency. The company saw a 4% reduction in stores, or 163 fewer outlets, compared with the same timeline last year. The global store count was noted to be 4050 as of February 28.

    H&M is undertaking steps to strengthen its long-term position and further enhance profitability through the optimization of its store portfolio. Actions include the renovation of existing stores, the opening of new outlets, and closure of others.

    However, reported net sales witnessed a 10% decrease, largely due to currency translation. The quarter began with a weak December, with a noticeable demand drop after November’s Black Friday trading. However, a positive sales trend emerged towards the end of the quarter, driven by the successful reception of the spring collections.

    Regional Sales Performance

    Sales in Asia, Oceania, Africa, and the Americas fell 3% when calculated in constant currency. In Western and Eastern Europe, sales were down by 1%, whereas Southern Europe saw a sales increase of 3%. Sales performance in the Nordics remained steady.

    Gross margin rose from 49.1% to 50.7% during the quarter. The operating profit saw a significant boost with an increase of 26%, amounting to SEK1.512 billion. Profit for the period also grew by 21.5% to SEK704 million. CEO Daniel Ervér attributed the strengthened profitability to good cost control and an improved gross margin, despite cautious consumption and large currency translation effects.

    Ervér also stressed the significance of flexibility in the current challenging macroeconomic environment, which is marked by increased geopolitical uncertainty.

    Future Expectations and Concerns

    H&M anticipates a 1% increase in sales in constant currency for March in the current quarter. The company is closely observing the developments in the Middle East, along with the potential implications on global trade. The Middle Eastern markets, which are managed through franchise partners, account for a minor portion of H&M’s sales.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the net sales value for H&M in the first fiscal quarter?
    The net sales value was SEK49.6 billion (US$5.2 billion).

    What changes are being undertaken within H&M’s store portfolio?
    Actions include updating existing stores, opening new ones, and closing some outlets.

    What is the anticipated sales increase for March in the current quarter?
    H&M expects a 1% increase in sales for March in the current quarter.