Retailers usually benefit from the opening of new MRT stations and train services.
However, stores at CityLink Mall are seeing the reverse, with business dropping 20 percent to 30 percent, on average, after the new Circle Line (CCL) stations in the area opened in April.
 |
Several stores even posted a 40-percent drop one week after the line opened.
That is because commuters can use the Esplanade and Promenade stations and bypass City Hall MRT, giving CityLink Mall a miss.
While there is minimal impact on food and beverage outlets, others – particularly those selling apparel – have been hit hard.
“I can see business drop by around 40 percent, compared to before the launch of the Circle Line. Hopefully, after Marina Bay Sands is opened, there’re more crowds coming through the CityLink Mall, then we can pick up the business again,” said Mr. Jonathan Chan, assistant shop manager at Adidas.