'It's a pity': Regulars lament closure
Overseas Emporium closed it shutters for good on 17 Nov 2024
For over half a century, Overseas Emporium stood as an iconic landmark at Chinatown's People's Park Complex where it was beloved by many regulars for its array of affordable goods, ranging from little trinkets and daily necessities to winterwear and more.
However, shoppers will now have to find a different place to shop as the historic store put up its shutters for good on Sunday (Nov 17) — but not before holding a massive clearance sale. According to Shin Min Daily News, a reporter saw lively crowds at the store on its last day, with plenty of people browsing the discounted goods. Speaking to the Chinese newspaper, many customers expressed their dejection at the store's closure. A regular customer Guo, who's in his 70s, said: "Overseas Emporium has a long history. I often come here to patronise it. I feel sad that it is closing."
Overseas Emporium opened more than 50 years ago in 1971 and was one of the largest Chinese departmental stores in Singapore in the 1970s, according to the store's website. The store took up 20,000 sq ft of shopping space across two floors of People's Park Complex.
