More heartland shops expecting better business: HDB Business Expectations Survey 2013

By Janice Heng, The Straits Times, 6 Dec 2014

MORE shops in Housing Board neighbourhoods are optimistic about the future, according to an annual survey.

Of the shopkeepers surveyed last year, 35 per cent expect business to improve within the next six months, the highest proportion since the study began in 2002.

The results are encouraging, said National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan in a blog post yesterday. "A satisfied HDB shopkeeper often means a satisfied customer base... HDB will do its best to help ensure that this social glue remains intact and effective."



The survey found that 61 per cent of shopkeepers were satisfied with their current business, down from 62.8 per cent in 2012, but still higher than in previous years.

And 84 per cent plan to continue their business in the next five years, 10 per cent up from a year ago and the highest since 2007.

Established businesses and those located in high human traffic precincts were most satisfied. These included restaurants, medical clinics, and childcare or education centres.

Toa Payoh resident John Yap, 55, who works in sales, said HDB shops "are very good, very friendly".

"At least there's somebody who will talk to you, not like in shopping malls," he said.

But smaller retailers or those not in busy town centres may have it harder, say shop owners.

Tanah Merah Merchants' Association secretary Neo Peng Cheong said that independent stationery shops in his neighbourhood centre, for instance, have closed down: "They can't compete with (bookshop chain) Popular."

Toa Payoh children's clothes shop owner Jasmine Cao, 32, expects better business soon with the coming festive period. But after that, she is less optimistic.

Mr Khaw hopes to help HDB shops keep going. These outlets are not only convenient - but they also allow shopkeepers to build close ties with residents, he said.

"This social glue is hard to measure but we all know it to be important. A smile and a greeting as you leave for your office early in the morning can brighten your day."