MORE CHEERS FOR RETAILERS IN ORCHARD THIS WET DECEMBER

It is that time of the year. The rainy season has returned but it has definitely not dampened the spirit of Christmas as shoppers thronged the malls along Orchard Road despite the rain, sending joys to retailers.

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.”