Times Bookstores is closing its last remaining outlet in Singapore at Jelita Shopping Centre on 22 September 2024. The closure was announced by the bookstore chain on Instagram on 16 September 2024, marking the end of nearly five decades of operations in the country.
Background
Times Bookstores, established in 1978, has been a staple for English book lovers in Singapore. Over the years, it has seen the closure of several branches, including those at Plaza Singapura and Waterway Point. The Jelita Shopping Centre outlet on Holland Road is the last to shut its doors, as the lease for the location runs out.
Customer Farewell
In their Instagram post, Times Bookstores invited customers to visit the store one final time before it closes. “We are grateful for the support over the years and hope to see you at our Jelita outlet for a final farewell,” the statement read. Long-time patrons expressed their sadness, with one customer commenting, “It’s the end of an era. Times Bookstores has been my go-to for decades.”
Impact on the Community
The closure of Times Bookstores signifies more than just the end of a retail outlet; it marks the loss of a cultural touchstone for many Singaporeans. “Bookstores like Times have been crucial in fostering a love for reading in the community,” said Clement Yong, a correspondent for The Straits Times. The store’s departure leaves a void in the local literary scene, especially for those who prefer physical books over digital formats.
Future Implications
With the closure of Times Bookstores, the landscape of book retail in Singapore continues to shift towards online platforms and digital media. This trend raises questions about the future of physical bookstores in the country. While some independent bookstores remain, the exit of a major player like Times underscores the challenges faced by traditional book retailers in the digital age.
Related Developments
The closure of Times Bookstores follows a broader trend of retail transformations in Singapore. Other notable closures include the iconic Robinsons department store and several branches of MPH Bookstores. As consumers increasingly turn to online shopping, brick-and-mortar stores are finding it harder to sustain operations. This shift is likely to continue, prompting businesses to adapt or face similar fates.
