Metro has confirmed plans to close its outlets at Paragon and Causeway Point in Singapore, citing a shift in consumer behavior toward online shopping.
The decision marks a significant contraction for the department store operator in one of Asia's most competitive retail markets.
Shoppers at the locations on July 21 noted that the in-store experience no longer aligns with their preferences, with many explicitly stating that online channels better suit their needs.
Footfall at the Causeway Point outlet was described as light, reflecting broader challenges in driving traffic to traditional department stores.
The closures underscore the ongoing structural shift in retail, where physical presence is increasingly justified only by unique experiential offerings or immediate availability.
For investors tracking consumer discretionary sectors, Metro's retreat from high-rent prime locations signals a continued optimization of cost structures amid margin pressures.