Transport-themed merchandise has gained significant traction in Singapore, with one entrepreneur, Danial Sim, leading the charge through his business TapSpace. Founded with an initial investment of just S$50, the company is now capable of selling over a thousand products daily, showcasing the growing demand for collectibles inspired by public transport.
Danial's inspiration for TapSpace came during a vacation in Korea in August 2023, where he observed the local enthusiasm for transit-themed trinkets. Recognizing a gap in the Singapore market, he shifted from his engineering career to pursue this idea. His first product line featured four MRT station keychains—Changi, Orchard, Punggol, and Sengkang—priced at S$9.90 each.
To effectively launch his brand, Danial utilized social media by creating a TikTok account to engage with potential customers through livestreams. Additionally, he expanded his reach by selling on Shopee and participating in hobby fairs. This multifaceted approach has contributed to the rapid growth and popularity of TapSpace in the local market.