Retailers call for change as Singapore prepares for World Retail Congress Asia Pacific

By VJ Media Bureau | Vjmedia Works | 1 | March 12, 2013

In Singapore the lack of manpower poses a greater challenge as local graduates tend to view retail jobs as low-skilled, of low-prestige and unworthy of their education.

With a week to go for World Retail Congress at Singapore, the Government of the country has pushed to increase productivity and lower dependence on foreign labour. Dato' Dr. Jannie Chan, President of Singapore Retailers Association said, "The retail industry is already reeling in one of the most challenging environments to date, and further labour constraints and cost increases will only make matters worse. Retailers need to develop more sustainable business models and make retailing an attractive career option where there are clear long term career progressions. By doing so, Singapore can and will remain the premier shopping destination in Asia.â€

In Singapore the lack of manpower poses a greater challenge as local graduates tend to view retail jobs as low-skilled, of low-prestige and unworthy of their education. Industry players are stepping up to the challenge with players such as Abercrombie and Fitch, and Dairy Farm International offering comprehensive career programmes for graduates in Singapore. Richard Perry, Group Business Process Director at Dairy Farm International, said: "Our retail landscape is changing faster than ever before, and it shows no sign of slowing down. For retailers to remain relevant and preferred in the mind of a consumer they must deliver an increasingly valuable experience for them. On a day to day basis this means we need to offer better value and better service. We must then pass this value onto our customer to earn their loyalty and ongoing custom.â€ Industry leaders including Richard Perry will be tackling such issues and many others at the World Retail Congress Asia Pacific. The event will provide the best minds across the industry with unparalleled opportunities for networking, for knowledge exchange and for understanding global trends and best practices.