Tag: Singapore

Singapore – Deliveroo, a delivery platform, has launched ‘Deliveroo Shopping,’ its online retail arm that expands delivery options to include non-food needs. The launch coincides with Deliveroo’s ninth anniversary. 

Through the launch, Deliveroo offers users access to retail items in beauty and personal care, baby care, consumer electronics, florists, health and pharmacy, and pet care.

The one-stop shop houses Deliveroo’s merchant partners under the ‘Shopping’ section in the app, including LUSH, Xpressflower, and Pet Lovers Centre.

Additionally, Deliveroo is introducing a new in-app gifting function, which allows users to send gifts with a trackable link and an animated greeting card.

To further provide convenience to shoppers, Deliveroo is leveraging its machine-learning-based search function, allowing them to browse for gifts depending on the occasion.

As part of the launch, Deliveroo is offering promos, including a $1 delivery fee and discounts. 

The new features reflect Deliveroo Singapore’s survey, which found that 53% of consumers prefer getting non-food supplies through delivery platforms while 55% want a gift delivery option.

“Delivery services have become an integral part of Singaporeans’ daily lives, evolving far beyond just meals and groceries. With the launch of Deliveroo Shopping, we’re committed to enhancing convenience and value for our customers by expanding our offerings to meet a wider range of everyday needs, enabling people to get them delivered quickly to their doorstep,” Jason Parke, general manager of Deliveroo Singapore, said.

Karen Goh, marketing manager at Xpressflower, commented, “With flowers making great on-demand gifts, this partnership with Deliveroo Shopping allows us to bring our freshly picked and arranged flowers right to the doorsteps of consumers at a moment’s notice, ensuring they have the perfect gift regardless of the occasion.”

“As Singaporeans increasingly rely on delivery services for their daily needs, we’re excited to partner with Deliveroo Shopping to bring pet essentials directly to their doorsteps. Our collaboration with Deliveroo will provide pet owners with an alternative platform that offers convenient, on-demand access to a wide range of products, making caring for their beloved pets easier,” a spokesperson from Pet Lovers Centre said. 

Singapore – Supermom, a Singapore-based AI consumer data platform designed by and for mothers, has successfully secured S$18m (US$14m) in a series B funding round, attracting investment from four key investors.

The funding round is spearheaded by Granite Asia, one of Asia’s top venture capital firms, and features participation from Hearst Ventures, along with returning investors Qualgro and AC Ventures.

This latest funding round follows Supermom’s Series A raise of S$8m in December 2022, which was also led by Qualgro, reinforcing the belief that Supermom is a standout innovator harnessing AI and data to deliver value for families and consumer brands.

Supermom plans to utilise the funds to enhance its AI capabilities and expand internationally, allowing for improved product offerings and increased innovation to deliver greater value to both brands and consumers. Additionally, team expansion will be prioritised to accelerate development initiatives.

“We are thrilled to partner with Supermom as they build the largest AI driven data platform in SEA connecting brands and consumers. At Granite Asia, we believe in supporting companies that positively impact communities, and Supermom’s vision of empowering parents across SEA to live better and smarter aligns with our values. We look forward to helping accelerate their growth and expand their reach across the region,” shared Jenny Lee, managing partner at Granite Asia. 

Katie Hu, managing director of Hearst Ventures, added, “We were impressed by the way in which the Supermom platform has delivered significant business growth for brands while enhancing parenthood experiences for mothers and families. Its expanding footprint in the Southeast Asia region makes it an attractive company to watch out for. We are looking forward to working with the Supermom leadership to unleash their ambitions for the region.” 

Commenting on the continuous commitment by Qualgro, Weisheng Neo, partner at Qualgro, shared, “As an AI and data investor, our confidence in Supermom’s team stems from our strong working relationship that has led to accelerated growth and outstanding products. We have been impressed by the speed and dedication for building an advanced data platform.” 

“We have seen the Supermom business in Indonesia grow significantly in the last one year, with the launch of Project 1MPACT and onboarding of new agencies and brands. We are excited to be a part of their growth journey in SEA’s largest and fastest-growing market,” added Adrian Li, managing partner at AC Ventures. 

Supermom has established a robust ecosystem that connects over 10 million parents across Southeast Asia, supported by more than 6,000 online communities and over 250 consumer brands, including multinational companies such as AIA, Kimberly Clark, Abbott Laboratories, and Unilever, as well as local giants like Mandiri, Indofood, and Wings Group.

The platform has proven its value in offering families valuable insights into lifestyle and consumption choices. Additionally, Supermom creates income-earning opportunities for mothers by rewarding them for their insights and user-generated content, while also fostering connections among like-minded parents. 

Commenting on the funding, Luke Lim, CEO of Supermom, said, “We are grateful to our investors—both new and returning—for believing in our vision and extending their support. As a company, we remain committed to building the largest AI-driven data platform in SEA, connecting brands and consumers. Our track record in the last four years of scaling the business by focusing on our core solutions and core clients has helped us to build a solid foundation for growth. We are thrilled to have Granite lead this investment round. With their extensive global experience in transforming tech startups into industry leaders, we are confident in the future growth and impact of our business.” 

Supermom was established by Joan Ong, a former managing director of global MICE organiser Terrapinn, along with Luke Lim and Rebecca Koh, chief of staff of Supermom. 

Singapore – More than half of Singaporean consumers are eyeing to buy luxury during the holiday sales, a research from technology company LoopMe reveals.

LoopMe reports that 41% of Singaporean consumers plan to make purchases during the sales period, which contrasts consumer trends in the United Kingdom and Australia, where only 14% plan to shop. Fewer consumers in the region also plan to purchase luxury items during the holidays.

Among Singaporean consumers, 40% are looking to buy gifts, with 23% likely to purchase apparel or footwear. Over half of them report that the sales and discounts motivate them to buy more during the period. 

The study also highlights the increasing popularity of super apps in Singapore, with 24% of consumers likely to shop on TikTok, 12% from Amazon, 10% from Grab, 4% from Foodpanda, and 50% from a different app.

“Singapore consumers seem set to shop over the next few months, with a series of sales events providing a great opportunity for retailers to convert this intent, especially in the luxury goods sector,” Simon Stone, general manager of international (EMEA & APAC) at LoopMe, commented.

“With super apps driving purchases, brands should be looking to include these platforms – notably the TikTok shop – in marketing strategies to engage established and new customers with the discounts on offer,” Stone added.

Singapore – Breast Cancer Foundation has teamed up with J&T Express for logistics services during its 16th Pink Ribbon Walk (PRW) commemorating Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. 

The event was held on Oct. 26 at Marina Barrage. For the first time, Breast Cancer Foundation featured a carnival-style event for the PRW.

Through the event, the Breast Cancer Foundation emphasises the need for awareness and early detection, with 30% of women being diagnosed in Singapore. The PRW encourages women to consider their breast health while supporting survivors.

This year, the foundation aimed to invite participants to join a 3 to 5-kilometer walk along Marina Bay. It aims to foster empowerment, sense of community, innovation, and engagement.

Since the Breast Cancer Foundation’s establishment in 1997, it has aimed to be a symbol of hope and resilience among women.

“While October is synonymous with Breast Cancer awareness, it is important to acknowledge that developing excellent breast health habits and awareness is an ongoing dedication throughout the year. The launch of our iconic PRW event is a testament to our ongoing commitment to heightening awareness about breast cancer, promoting early detection, and being the main port-of-call for all things breast-cancer related,” Adeline Kow, general manager at Breast Cancer Foundation, said.

“At BCF, we believe in the power of community. The Pink Light Up and Pink Ribbon Walk are more than just events; they are movements that bring people together to support, inspire, and create lasting impact. This year, we continue our mission to empower individuals and families who have been affected by the disease, fostering a proactive approach to breast health and ensuring no one faces their breast cancer journey alone,” Kow added.

Rachel Chen, head of general management office at J&T Express Singapore, commented, “Partnering with the Breast Cancer Foundation for the second year running reflects J&T Express’ ongoing commitment to local communities and causes that matter to them. As the official logistics partner for Pink Ribbon Walk 2024, we are responsible for delivering participant kits, donation boxes, and event materials to ensure the success of the event.”

“We’re proud to stand together with BCF in raising awareness around the importance of early detection and proactive health measures, contributing to a happier and healthier Singapore. We see ourselves as more than just a logistics provider — we are partners in driving positive impact,” Chen added.

Singapore – Singaporean consumers have grown wary of artificial intelligence (AI), with only 36% trusting AI amidst data privacy concerns, according to a new Qualtrics report. 

With consumers becoming increasingly hesitant to share personal information, confidence in AI among Singaporean consumers has dropped by 11% in the past year. It marks a shift from consumers’ initial excitement in AI use to increasing skepticism. 

Customers’s growing concerns surrounding AI use contribute to this waning trust. Many customers prefer interacting with human agents (52%) while some are worried about how their personal data will be used (49%). Meanwhile, many consumers have low trust in how organisations will use AI (64%).

“There is no excuse for getting the fundamentals of good customer experience wrong, but too often consumers are saying this is what’s happening with poor communication and service issues. High-performing industries continue to raise the bar on what good customer experience looks like, and with more than half of bad experiences ending in a spending cut businesses and governments can no longer afford to fall behind,” Isabelle Zdatny, customer loyalty specialist at Qualtrics, said.

Though fewer consumers report poor customer experiences, their trust, likelihood to recommend, and satisfaction have declined in the past year.

The report also highlights an increase in the silent treatment, where consumers avoid sharing feedback, both positive and negative. Singaporean consumers are 7% less likely to voice their complaints about negative experiences compared to 2021.

“Customers are giving brands the silent treatment, and if organisations don’t find a way to fix this issue we could see more disgruntled consumers in Singapore. Customers are expecting a better experience, but simultaneously they’re not willing to share the insights brands need to deliver one. Overcoming this gap requires brands to rethink how they engage with customers, and go beyond the traditional feedback survey,” Zdatny said.

Additionally, the report shows a paradox in personalisation and privacy. While 72% of consumers prefer personalised experiences, only 40% trust companies to use their personal information responsibly. It highlights businesses’ need to build trust and maintain transparency. 

“Giving customers what they want is not a conversation about privacy or personalisation. It’s about trust. Brands need to identify what they need to do to win trust back without overstepping the mark and turning customers away instead. It’s dangerous to assume that existing customers will stay loyal without intentional effort to keep them. To deliver a great customer experience, following through on the most basic commitments and delivering what’s been promised is what’s most important to consumers,” Zdatny added.

“Following through on the most basic commitments carries the most weight with customers. New initiatives rolling out are outside customers’ comfort zones, so it is essential to have the basics in place and uphold them. Customers are more demanding than ever, and it’s dangerous to assume that existing customers will stay loyal without intentional effort to keep them,” Zdnatny concluded.

Singapore – Korean beauty and lifestyle company Ksisters is set to open its first flagship store in Singapore at Wheelock Place. After the brand’s eight years of online presence, the Ksisters’ store will open on Oct. 31, 2024.

The store opening allows more customers to access Ksisters’ products in Singapore. With over 30 Korean beauty, fashion, and lifestyle brands, the new store features products curated for Singaporeans. It includes the brands Jung Beauty, Sama Ondoh, Dinto makeup, Genabelle, NewMix Coffee, and more.

Ksisters’ products have been handpicked by aesthetician and founder Jungmin Lee, who considered Singapore’s humid weather in the selection. 

The store design features a ‘hanok,’ or wooden framework of beams and columns to symbolise stability and warmth. There are also Korean moon jars within the store, which is believed to attract good fortune and prosperity.

To reinforce Ksister’s mission to elevate K-beauty experiences, monthly events will be held at the store, including workshops and wellness sessions. The activations aim to build a sense of community and connection among its customers.

As part of the launch, Ksisters’ customers can enjoy promotions and even get complimentary coffee and shopping bag with any purchase. Shoppers with a minimum spend of $100 will be given a customisable keychain pouch, while a spend of $200 or more entitles them to a customisable keychain strap and iron-on patches. 

“We are excited to open our flagship store in Singapore, a space where Korean heritage and K-beauty innovation come together in harmony,” Lee said.

“Our mission at Ksisters is to empower beauty enthusiasts by providing curated products that are effective and tailored for Singapore’s unique climate. At the same time, we want to honour the rich traditions of Korea by integrating hanok-inspired design elements into our store. This ensures a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for the local community to explore, connect, and find inspiration in their beauty journey,” Lee added.

Singapore – Singtel, a telecommunications group in Singapore, has released film campaign ‘Lights Out’ promoting a sense of community and neighbourhood in time for the Deepavali festival.

The film shows how the Deepavali celebration can become more meaningful by nurturing friendships. It follows the story of Raju, who is struggling to fix his lights before the festival until his neighbours help him find a solution.

Using a variety of visual and audio techniques, the film emphasises the different emotions of Raju as the story progresses. It especially focuses on the lighting as it first uses dimness before shifting to bright colours, further signifying the festival’s meaning.

When Raju’s lights are back, he shares his experience on social media, spreading how his Deepavali celebration was saved by his friends. 

The film captures the essence of the Deepavali celebration in the present context, incorporating relatable experiences. It also reflects Singtel’s commitment to connecting people while ensuring security to support its customers.

‘Lights Out’ has been released on Singtel’s social media channels, including Instragram, YouTube, and TikTok.

Singapore –Jewel Changi Airport is set to open a Disney Cruise Line-themed spectacle in time for the year-end holidays. ‘The Gift of Disney Cruise Line at Jewel’ event will run from Nov. 8, 2024 to Jan. 2, 2025 at Canopy Park, Jewel’s topmost floor.

The spectacle comprises interactive displays in seven themed areas inspired by Disney Adventure, an upcoming cruise ship that homeports in Singapore next year. It features photo installations of iconic characters from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel.

Inspired from Disney Adventure’s Imagination Garden, the installation features a hedge maze, where visitors will be welcomed by a life-sized Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey statue. At Foggy Bowls area, Big Hero 6’s Baymax stands amidst a San Fransokyo Street-themed landscape.

As part of its partnership with Disney Cruise Line, Jewel is offering limited-edition collectibles, which customers can purchase with a S$60 single receipt. The items include a sling bag, duffel bag, travel organiser, and luggage.

Visitors can also get the chance to win a 4-day, 3-night cruise vacation on the Disney Adventure. Additionally, if they arrive wearing Disney, Pixar, or Marvel outfits, they will be granted free access at Canopy Park on Nov. 16 and 17.

James Fong, chief executive officer of Jewel Changi Airport Development, said “Jewel Changi Airport continues to redefine the holiday season, and this year is no exception. We’re thrilled to be the first destination in Southeast Asia to present this Disney Cruise Line-inspired experience. The installations at Canopy Park are designed to offer a taste of the magical moments that await onboard the Disney Adventure. We look forward to delighting visitors of all ages with this truly special festive extravaganza at Jewel.”

“The excitement and energy from consumers in the region for the Disney Adventure is unmatched. We hope this festive showcase at Jewel Changi Airport brings joy to local and international visitors, while also offering a glimpse of a magical Disney cruise vacation at sea as we look forward to the ship’s maiden voyage next December,” Sarah Fox, vice president and regional general manager for Southeast Asia at Disney Cruise Line, commented.

Singapore – Major mobile network operators (MNOs) in Singapore has assured the public of their compliance to Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA)’s Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF) for phishing scams. 

MAS and IMDA recently announced the implementation of the SRF, which assigns duties to financial institutions and telecommunication companies to address phishing scams. In a joint response, MNOs M1, Singtel, StarHub and SIMBA emphasises their collective adherence to protect its customers.

“The MNOs have already implemented the telco duties set out in the Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF). On top of these duties, the MNOs have also complied with other scam prevention measures such as stringent SIM card registration requirements and offering the option for subscribers to block international calls and SMS,” the statement read. 

The SRF holds network banks and telco liable for customers suffering from scams, requiring them to perform real-time fraud surveillance. If a customer is scammed, telcos may be expected to bear the losses if the guidelines are not followed.

The MNOs said they will collaborate with authorities to enforce measures and avoid scams. 

“In line with the SRF, the respective MNOs will review the eligibility of claims made, with consideration of fair recourse,” the joint statement read.

Earlier this year, the major MNOs have strengthened their anti-scam efforts by partnering with IMDA to allow their customers to block international mobile numbers.

MAS and IMDA is set to implement the SRF starting Dec. 16, 2024. The SRF was first published on Oct. 25, 2023 for a consultation, gathering responses from the public and business representatives.

Singapore – McDonald’s Singapore, in collaboration with Migrant & Me charity, is celebrating the Deepavali festival through supporting migrant workers recovering from work-related injuries.

In an event held on Oct. 24, 2024, McDonald’s welcomed 18 migrant workers with meals. They also participated in a painting session of rangoli, a traditional Indian art form, highlighting Deepavali’s cultural significance.

The event is part of McDonald’s effort to promote inclusivity and a sense of community for the migrant workers. 

Additionally, McDonald’s will also gift 1,500 meals for recovering workers through food vouchers, which they can use at any McDonald’s restaurant.

The initiative marks McDonald’s second partnership with Migrant & Me.

“We are proud to continue our partnership with Migrant & Me. Deepavali is a celebration of community and inclusivity, and are values that resonate with us. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the contributions of our migrant heroes, and to foster a deeper sense of cultural appreciation in our community,” Benjamin Boh, managing director of McDonald’s Singapore, said.

Isabel Phua, executive director of Migrant & Me, commented, “Collaborating with McDonald’s once again for this meaningful event highlights the power of kindness and community. This partnership allows us to create a welcoming space where migrant workers feel valued and included. By engaging them in these celebrations, we’re fostering connections that transcend backgrounds.”