Singapore stationery and way of life model PaperMarket to shut bodily retailer after 20 years

SINGAPORE – After 20 years of supplying clients with specialty stationery and way of life presents, native craft retailer PaperMarket is shutting its bodily retailer as a result of mounting monetary pressures.

The home-grown model, first opened in 2005 by entrepreneur Elaine Ong, introduced the approaching closure through an Instagram and Facebook put up on April 30.

“After 20 years, this is the hardest post we’ve had to write,” the PaperMarket staff mentioned. “We’ve done everything we could to keep going, including months of difficult conversations behind the scenes. But with rising costs, it is no longer sustainable for us to continue as a small, home-grown brand.”

PaperMarket at the moment operates out of Great World and beforehand had retailers at Raffles City and Plaza Singapura.

While the posts didn’t specify the date of its remaining day of enterprise, the model has launched a clearance sale providing as much as 70 per cent off merchandise. The retailer’s furnishings and show fixtures are additionally out there on the market.

PaperMarket confirmed within the remark part that it’ll proceed to function its on-line retailer.

It initially made its identify specialising in scrapbooking supplies, DIY kits and stickers earlier than increasing its catalogue to incorporate way of life labels akin to Kate Spade, Muzik Tiger and Baggu.

The sudden announcement triggered an outpouring of nostalgia and help within the remark sections.

“I have such fond memories of browsing the Raffles City store during my scrapbooking days,” wrote a patron. “The smell of paper and crafts just filled the air. Will miss you and hope for the best for the team!”

“I’ve been a fan since 15+ years ago,” wrote one other. “I am so sorry to hear this, and I pray the PaperMarket team comes back in some form or other in the future.”

A former workers member addressed Ms Ong instantly: “I’ve found genuine friendships with colleagues and VVIPs 12 to 13 years ago from this team. And I am proud to be part of this team. I know this wasn’t just a business, it was a piece of your heart. You’ve worked hard for this! All the best, thank you for all the beautiful years.”

In its farewell put up, PaperMarket wrote that whereas it is going to miss its bricks-and-mortar house, it’s discovering it hardest to say goodbye to its group.

“Our team, many of whom have been with us for years, have served you with heart, care and genuine friendships.”

Urging long-time clients to go to the Great World store for a remaining hurrah, PaperMarket added: “Come by, say hello, and celebrate the memories with us”.