TODAYS : IRs not a threat

'IRs not a threat'
by Neo Chai Chin 05:55 AM Nov 18, 2009

Whether or not the integrated resorts will pose a serious threat to them, Orchard Road retailers are not "awfully worried". So said Ms Lau Chuen Wei, executive director of the Singapore Retailers Association.

That some of them - from luxury labels to local brands - will open outlets at the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is a sign that "there is space in the retail landscape", she told MediaCorp.

Also, Orchard Road and MBS cater to different crowds - the former for Singaporeans looking for a hangout, and the latter to a "captive audience" already at the resort, she said.

Resorts World at Sentosa (RWS) has been reported as saying it will offer a "niche yet refreshing retail experience" with offerings like Universal Studios Singapore theme park merchandise.

But Ms Lau said the upcoming pedestrian walkway linking Sentosa with Vivocity Promenade indicates that RWS "are quite happy for their visitors to go across the waters to Vivocity