Some retailers in Singapore are turning to China for inspiration to overcome challenges such as high rents and intense competition. In March 2026, 32 companies participated in a learning trip to Hangzhou organised by the Singapore Retailers Association (SRA). During the trip, participants explored advancements in live commerce, artificial intelligence, logistics, and customer engagement, drawing insights from Chinese companies like Alibaba and ByteDance.

One notable example is local fashion label Young Hungry Free, whose founder and creative director Winnie Ong described the experience as revealing how Chinese businesses create "an entire ecosystem" around livestreaming. This ecosystem integrates design, content, marketing, and customer engagement to support each livestream effectively.

Inspired by this, Young Hungry Free reorganised its livestream team upon returning to Singapore, establishing clearly defined roles and implementing a structured 10-week training programme for new staff. The company now employs a lead producer to oversee planning and presenters to host livestreams, while programmers analyze customer feedback, product demand, and sales trends in real time to make swift decisions.

Winnie Ong reflected on the trip, saying, "There was a huge feeling of being limitless," highlighting the expansive potential seen in China's retail innovations.

These changes reflect a broader trend among Singapore retailers who are adapting their operations by embracing technology and enhancing in-store experiences to attract shoppers in a competitive market.

Sources