Retail has always been a vibrant industry for Singapore, and it’s well-known that our sunny island is a shoppers’ paradise. But of late, the retail world has been shaken up by the closure and exit of several prominent brands. Apparel retailers Topshop and Esprit (SEHK: 0330) closed their last outlets in Singapore in September and April last year, respectively. Sportslink, home-grown sporting goods and apparel brand that started in 1983, closed its final store in July. At its peak, it had 30 stores around the island. And of course, one of the storied names in retail, Robinsons Department Store, closed its doors two days ago after an illustrious 162-year run. If you’re wondering if these closures signal the death knell for brick-and-mortar retail, you might want to think again. Although e-commerce and online shopping have boomed in recent years and have accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic, physical retail still has its place. ...