Retail Realities (New Report)
Reclaiming the Singaporean Shopper in a Digital-First World
A New Insights Report by Blackbox Research
As Singapore enters 2026, physical retail is not in decline — it is evolving. In a digital-first world marked by convenience and attention fatigue, malls are increasingly valued as spaces for certainty, sensory engagement, and social connection. Drawing on nationally representative SensingSG data, Retail Realities reveals how shoppers — especially younger “Tactile Natives” — are redefining when and why they choose to shop in person.
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What’s Inside the Report?
A macro overview of Singapore’s retail landscape in 2026, including inflation stabilisation, SG60 vouchers, tourism shifts, and the looming impact of the JB–Singapore RTS Link.
Analysis of the 65/35 online–offline equilibrium, showing why physical retail remains critical for high-confidence, high-intent purchases.
Deep dives into Gen Z “Tactile Natives”, debunking the myth that younger consumers are purely digital and revealing their growing demand for sensory and social retail experiences.
Examination of the “affordability gap” paradox, where improved mall environments coexist with rising concerns over price and value.
Insights into suburban and heartland mall resilience, including the rise of “15-minute city” retail and the medical-wellness mall model.
Forward-looking recommendations on tenant mix, social infrastructure, and experiential design, highlighting why cinemas and bookstores are losing relevance — and what should replace them.
Why You Should Read It
Understand why physical retail is not dying, but being redefined — and how the mall is evolving into a community living room rather than a distribution point.
Uncover the “Tactile Renaissance”, where younger Singaporeans are leading renewed demand for touch, trial, and immediate ownership.
Identify the strategic risks of premiumisation without value, and why one-in-three shoppers feel affordability has worsened despite better environments.
Learn how suburban malls are outperforming central districts, driven by hybrid work patterns, essential spending, and hyper-local relevance.
Gain clarity on how upcoming structural shifts — from SG60 vouchers to RTS-driven retail leakage — will reshape competitive dynamics.
Translate sentiment data into practical strategies for converting footfall into meaningful dwell-time and long-term loyalty.
Who Is It For?
This report is essential reading for:
Mall Owners and Operators looking to future-proof assets through tenant mix transformation, social infrastructure, and experiential leadership.
Retail Brands and Chains seeking to understand when — and why — Singaporeans still choose to shop in person.
Urban Planners and Policymakers focused on liveability, ageing populations, and the role of retail in community building.
Strategy, Insights, and CX Teams needing evidence-based guidance on Gen Z behaviour, suburban resilience, and value perception.
Investors and Developers assessing long-term risks and opportunities in Singapore’s evolving retail ecosystem.
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