Once a bustling hub for tech enthusiasts, Sim Lim Square is facing significant decline as consumer habits shift towards e-commerce. Located near Rochor MRT, the six-storey mall, once a favorite for purchasing PC components, now shows vacant units and reduced foot traffic.
The rise of online shopping platforms such as Shopee and Lazada has dramatically altered the retail landscape in Singapore over the last decade. These platforms provide convenience, competitive pricing, and buyer protections that traditional stores struggle to match. Many consumers now prefer to research and purchase tech items online, using physical stores primarily for hands-on experiences and support.
Shops in Sim Lim Square often rely on outdated business practices, with some still using handwritten price lists and lacking an online presence. Customers report unsatisfactory experiences characterized by unclear pricing and slow service, leading to a further decline in interest in the mall.