John Little closed, followed by Robinsons and now Metro. The announcement that Metro Holdings (SGX: M01) will cease operating its large-format department stores at Paragon and Causeway Point when their leases expire marks the end of an era for Singapore’s traditional retail sector. Metro announced plans to reposition its retail business as part of a long-term strategy to better meet evolving consumer preferences and strengthen the positioning of its retail business in Singapore. Following a strategic review of its retail business amidst the operating challenges faced by Singapore’s retail sector, Metro intends to gradually transit away from operating traditional large-format department stores towards a more flexible retail approach that emphasises customer engagement, specialised retail concepts supporting new retail opportunities and greater operational agility. As such, Metro will cease operating its existing large-format department stores at Metro Paragon and Metro Causeway Point upon the conclusion of the existing lease arrangements. The company is already in discussions with...