Most shops along this main
shopping district were seen filled with shoppers who are getting gifts for
loved ones as well as Christmas decoration for their homes. Shoppers were also
seen buying plenty of festive goodies to celebrate the season of giving.
Over at Marks and Spencer
Wheelock Place, sales have reportedly increased nearly 50% during this period when
compared to normal months on its food items as people stock up for the festive
season. The Sales Manager for this branch, Mr Donald Lee said that the rain has
certainly affected sales positively.
The 35-year-old added: “Sometimes,
if you have rain, it keeps customers from moving out as they seek shelter
inside.”
Another factor which keeps
shoppers coming back for more is the exclusivity of the product which they
might not find in shops around their neighbourhood. Most of the food items
carried by Marks and Spencer could not be found elsewhere.
He said: “It is exclusive because
everything here is from the UK.”
Most shoppers echoed the same
opinion when prompted why Orchard Road still remains the ideal place to shop
during this festive period despite the wet weather.
Ms Sonia Stansilas, 25, teacher’s
assistant said: “Most of the time, yes because it is a one stop place for
everything. All the brands are here, all the stuffs that you need, you easily
get it here.”
National Servicemen, Mr Edwin Ko,
21 agreed: “I came to Orchard because a lot of brands are all condensed in one
place so for us shoppers, it is very easy to go to all the different brands to
shop to get what we need.”
He added: “The spirit is here
especially with the lights and everything.”
However, tourists who are looking to soak in the
festive atmosphere were also left feeling dismayed due to the rainy season.
A tourist from Jakarta, Ms Regina Indira who is visiting Singapore for six days,
was seen seeking shelter from the rain.
She said: “I came to Singapore to
see the Christmas decorations in Orchard but because of the rain, it’s quite
disappointing and I cannot enjoy Orchard as much as if it was not raining.”
