Singtel opens new flagship store

Source: Singtel. From left: Anna Yip, Deputy CEO, Singtel Singapore; Yuen Kuan Moon, Group CEO, Singtel; Ng Tian Chong, CEO, Singtel Singapore; and Lionel Chng, MD, Customer Success, Singtel Singapore.

Singtel has officially opened its new flagship store, Singtel Shop 313@Somerset. Located in the heart of Orchard Road, the 4,900 sq ft space presents state-of-the-art retail solutions that elevate the experience of customers who can shop, create, and be entertained. The new store is part of Singtel Singapore’s renewed commitment to enhance and improve the customer experience.

The launch of this flagship store is a significant milestone for Singtel, as it has been located at the Comcentre for the past 22 years. In a tribute to the previous store, several items were upcycled and reused, such as furniture in the customer service area. These and other environmentally-friendly features in the store, like energy-efficient fittings and recycling bins for the public to deposit their e- waste, demonstrate Singtel’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.

Ng Tian Chong, CEO, Singtel Singapore, said, “Every aspect of this store is a reflection of our hyperfocus on customer-centricity because our customers are our top priority. In keeping with this focus, we’re using more technology tools like data analytics to help us better understand the needs of our customers because we want to deliver the right products and services to them in the most frictionless manner possible. We want everyone who visits our store to feel valued and empowered.”

Catering to both consumers and small businesses requiring mobile, broadband and cybersecurity solutions, service delivery processes have been streamlined by deploying the latest digital technologies that shorten waiting times and offer more customisation with predictive analytics. Trained staff are also stationed throughout the store to provide onsite support.

There is a livestreaming booth for content creators and entrepreneurs to unleash their creativity as well as spaces for partner brands to engage and educate customers on their products and services. To cater to audiences like Millennials and Gen Zs, the new store will feature the world’s first TikTok Creator House in a telco shop. The creator house is a professional soundproofed studio equipped with 4K HD cameras, wireless microphones and custom-built production servers for the production of high-quality content. The facility is open to the public, and can be booked via Singtel’s website.

"We are thrilled to be working with a beloved brand like SingTel to bring our TikTok Creator House to life, a space where technology powers creativity, making video creation seamless. 

"At the TikTok Creator House, we're looking forward to having local creators and businesses come together to create, to learn how to make engaging content and network with other like-minded creators here in Singapore," said Vanessa Brown, Head of Business Development APAC, TikTok.

The store also features CASETiFY’s latest collection of sustainable yet protective phone cases and accessories, including limited-edition designs by Singaporean photographer Andy Yong - a first in Singapore. Fans of the brand can create customised pieces within a day here.

“We’ve reimagined the store for the younger demographic and growing community of digital natives – who can use the tools, products, and facilities on offer to express themselves creatively. For those making careers on social media, they can even build their brands or services here. When customers come to our store, it will not be just a shopping trip but an experience – a place where they can connect, collaborate and co-create,” said Anna Yip, Deputy CEO, Singtel Singapore.

Getting served has been made even easier. Visitors can get a queue number by scanning a QR code. As they wait their turn, they can browse the e-catalogue and indicate which products and services they are interested in. This information is then channelled to Singtel staff to better understand the customers’ needs before meeting them, allowing for more personalised discussions.

The store has floor-to-ceiling curved LED screens that are used to create different moods depending on what products are being showcased at the time. The multipurpose area in the middle of the store can be further configured to support product launches, keynotes, and even masterclasses for the public.

The Singtel flagship store has always been the only outlet to offer all business-related services in one place. A dedicated small and medium sized business (SMB) service area has been set up, offering solutions like mobile, broadband, and cybersecurity to support their corporate needs. 

Explore

Singtel Shop 313@Somerset
313 Orchard Road #03-31/36
313@Somerset
Singapore 238895 

Visitors can expect several store opening promotions up to 26 January, such as a 24-hour 5G data pass and a free travel adapter for any new sign-ups or recontract for M plan and above:

Welcome Chicha SanChen voucher for all walk-in visitors:

• 15% off for RED and Prestige members
• 10% off for non-members

Retail customers:

Mobile 

• Free 24h 5G data pass for all visitors to the store
• S$50 Lendlease voucher for any new sign-ups for SOP 45, SOP 55 and Helium plans
• Free travel adapter for any new sign-ups or recontract for M plan and above

Fibre Internet broadband

• Free Samsung TV with 2 Gbps mesh broadband plan sign up + free 12 months of Singtel TV (any Ethnic TV pack)

Television 

• 50% off Family Lite Pack (12 months) + 6 months any two TV pack add-ons (choose from Chinese Movies, History & Crime, Food & Leisure, World Sports)

RED membership

• Free S$5 Chicha SanChen voucher for RED membership sign up

CASETiFY 

• Buy two phone cases and enjoy 15% off

Business customers

Mobile 

• Free OTO Power Spin + S$200 Singtel Shop voucher for new sign-ups or recontracting on XOP 92 plan and above
• Free Philips earbuds with any XOP plan new signup or recontract

Unified communications

• Free Philips earbuds with purchase of minimum two lines of unified communications solutions (BizVoice, Teams UC Direct Connect, Zoom One Pro, Zoom Collaboration Pack)

Fibre Internet broadband

• Promotional prices off the following plans:

- eVolve 500Mbps at S$92
- BizVoice Starter Plan 1 Gbps at S$184
- SD-WAN Bundle 350 Mbps at S$148

New Surface lineup lands in Singapore

Gary Chan, Retail Partner Services Lead, Microsoft Asia Pacific (left) with Microsoft Surface user Max Tan, Singapore Fashion Designer and founder of the brand, max.tan, at the new Surface store in Singapore. Tan said the pressure-sensitive pen offers a high level of sensitivity and that he is "addicted" to using the Surface Pro family.

Microsoft has unveiled its entire Surface lineup in Singapore, aimed at inspiring users to achieve more with the perfect Windows 10 device. Designed to empower work life and everyday life, the touch- and pen-capable Surface Book 2, Surface Laptop, and Surface Studio now join the Surface Pro as part of the full lineup of Surface devices available to customers in Singapore.

The new Surface offerings will be available for purchase on the Microsoft Store and through authorised retailers, and include:

Source: Microsoft. From left: Surface Pro, Surface Book 2, 

Surface Studio, and Surface Laptop. The Surface Pen is in the 

foreground on the left, and the Surface Dial in the centre of 

the foreground.

Surface Book 2

The most powerful Surface yet, Surface Book 2 is designed to deliver the ultimate in performance and versatility without compromise, featuring the latest Intel Dual-Core or Quad-Core processors, NVIDIA GeForce GPUs, and up to 17 hours of battery life. Available in 13.5" and 15" options, the Surface Book 2 is up to five times as powerful as the original. It is also able to support varying workstyles, including studio mode, laptop mode, view mode, and also tablet mode by detaching the screen.

Surface Book 2 configurations have a suggested retail price (SRP) beginning from S$2,188.

Surface Laptop

Surface Laptop is crafted for a portable and performance-packed experience powered by Windows 10 S. Windows 10 S offers a new Windows experience streamlined for security and superior performance, including faster startups with the InstantOn feature. It is engineered to start fast and stay fast with a 7th generation Intel Core processor and up to 14.5 hours of battery life* to last through the day. At 1.25 kg** and less than 14.5mm thin, Surface Laptop is ideal for those who want a light device on-the-go.

The Surface Laptop features a keyboard covered in Alcantara material, along with a quiet and responsive keyset, large precision trackpad, and soft palm rest for typing comfort.

Surface laptops have an SRP of S$1,488 and up.

Surface Studio

With a 28" PixelSense Display that is adjustable, the Surface Studio is a new type of device designed for the creative process. It provides a canvas for users to sketch, paint and edit photos, and can even be laid flat like a drafting table thanks to a Zero Gravity Hinge. Paired with the Surface Dial***, a small cylindrical device which provides easy access to shortcuts, controls and drawing tools, the Surface Studio is designed to be the ultimate creative studio. The Dial is a controller that offers context-sensitive menus when placed on the Surface Studio screen, as well as haptic feedback.

The Surface Studio costs S$6,488, while the Surface Dial is S$159.

A new S$148 Surface Precision Mouse offers flawless scrolling, customisable thumb buttons****, and the ability to support three computers simultaneously*****.

“Since the launch of Surface Pro in Singapore, we have been receiving feedback from our consumers that they are looking for different forms of Windows devices to suit their varying needs. Today, we are excited to be bringing an expanded lineup of Surface devices, which brings an ultimate computing experience with the combination of power and portability, and will inspire users to bring a new level of creativity to their work,” said Veronica Chiu, Windows and Devices Business Group Lead, Microsoft Singapore at the time of the announcement.

“In addition, the new Surface premium experience in Singapore is a commitment to deliver a one-stop experience for customers to experience the ultimate Windows devices that brings the best of Microsoft in one location.”

Source: Microsoft. The first Surface Store experience in
Southeast Asia is at the Harvey Norman Millenia Walk
Flagship Superstore in Singapore. 

Microsoft also launched the first dedicated Surface Store in Southeast Asia. The store is in Singapore, at the Harvey Norman Millenia Walk Flagship Superstore.

The new Surface Store features the full lineup of Surface devices and accessories so customers can decide easily on the best device to empower both work and life. Officially opening on 10 March 2018, it will offer a new Concierge service where customers can get support for their Surface device, regardless of where or when it was purchased.

Details:

The new Surface products will be available 15 March. Surface Book 2 and Surface Studio are available for preorder on the Microsoft Store as well as at authorised retailers including Best Denki, Challenger, Courts, LOL by Epicentre, Harvey Norman, and Newstead, both online and in-store.

In addition, the lineup will be available for commercial customers via Authorised Device Resellers including AsiaPac Distribution, JK Technology, and UIC Asian Computer Services.

Explore:

View the Instavideo where Chan talks about the Alcantara covers

Hashtag: #SurfaceFam

*Testing conducted by Microsoft in April 2017 using a preproduction Intel Core, 256GB, 8 GB RAM device. Testing consisted of full battery discharge during video playback. All settings were default except: Wi-Fi was associated with a network and auto-brightness disabled. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors

**Weight is based on i5 configuration

***Sold separately

****Customisation not available on devices running Windows 10 S or Mac OSX

*****Smart Switching not available on devices running Windows 10 S or Mac OSX

KOGEI Future Forward exhibition at Mitsukoshi Nihombashi Main Store highlights 15 artists

The Mitsukoshi Nihombashi Main Store in Tokyo, Japan will be launching a contemporary art exhibition on February 15, 2017. KOGEI Future Forward features 15 Japanese artists presenting contemporary artworks.

Kogei (工芸) is a Japanese word that was created at the dawn of the Meiji Period (1868 to 1912) to correspond to the English word "craft". Across the Meiji, Taisho, Showa and Heisei years, the artistry of kogei craft was refined as it underwent various changes. Today, kogei is highly regarded as fine art.

This exhibition interpretes kogei freely, and highlights the work of 15 Japanese artists to show kogei to the world as a uniquely Japanese fine art. Yuji Akimoto, a professor at the Tokyo University of the Arts and Director of the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, as well as of the University Art Museum, Tokyo University of the Arts, acted as Curatorial Supervisor for KOGEI Future Forward. Selected artists include:

© Takuro Kuwata , c ourtesy of KOSAKU KANECHIKA Photo by Hidenobu Saji 10.6 ×16.5×15 cm 2

Takuro Kuwata (桑田卓郎): new challenges in ceramic techniques and materials
Takuro Kuwata's appeal lies in his broad expression that straddles both craft and contemporary art. Bold forms and bright pop colours give rise to contemporary textures and rhythms. actively presenting work at galleries and museums abroad that handle contemporary art. While reevaluating the rich history of ceramics, he continues to seek new forms of expression that may be seen in the framework of pop art.

The works in this exhibition use kairagi (梅花皮), an effect produced when the glaze cracks upon firing of ceramics. Kuwata has used the kairagi effect in his own way, much as he employs ishihaze (石はぜ), an effect which appears on the surface of ceramics when stones mixed in the clay explode through firing, and hizumi (歪), referring to distortions in the vessel.

Masayasu Mitsuke (見附正康): delicate geometric patterns evoke an infinite mandala
Masayasu Mitsuke's work uses a technique called akae-saibyo (赤絵細描) from Kutani ware. Akae-saibyo is a technique used to painting fine thin lines with iron-red enamel paint in intricate patterns. It was in fashion from the late Edo period through to the Meiji and the early Showa era, and was actively produced as Ishikawa Prefecture's main local industry. Mitsuke has transformed akae-saibyo by updating stylised patterns such as karako (唐子, Chinese children) or dragons to contemporary designs.

Geometric designs characterise his work. Repeating patterns produce a space that conveys an obsessional sense of infinity. Iron-red mainly covers the ware, but the occasional gold or blue are added as an accent.

RITSUE MISHIMA © M asayasu Mitsuke, courtesy of Ota Fine Art 10.5 ×diameter 48.2cm © Ritsue Mishima Photo by Francesco Barasciutti “MEDUSA” 37×40×41cm 3 Transparent glass created on the island of Murano

Ritsue Mishima (三嶋りつ惠)
Ritsue Mishima creates organic forms that pursue the possibilities of glass in collaboration with the skilled artisans on the Italian island of Murano in Venice. The colourless transparent glass that is the product of a fusion of 1,000 years of traditional technique and Mishima’s sensibilities radiates a new appeal when light passes through it. It is characteristic of Mishima that she does not stop at the works themselves, but extends her expressive attitude of being fixated on “things coming into view” by means of installations that situate her glass objects in space. Mishima is based in Venice, but also runs an atelier in Kyoto, Japan.

Mitsukoshi Nihombashi Main Store is Japan's first department store, founded in 1673. The event is part of the Isetan Mitsukoshi Group's push to rediscover values created by Japanese tradition, culture and aesthetic consciousness and offer them to its customers as new values. The group is the largest department store group in Japan. 

Interested?

KOGEI Future Forward is conducted as a trial research project for the governmental Basic Policy for P romoting Measures related to Preparations for and Management of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo in 2020. 

February 15 to 20, 2017
10:30 am to 7:30 pm

Mitsukoshi Nihombashi Main Store
Main building, ground floor, Chuo Hall
1-4-1, Muromachi, Nihombashi,
Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan

A taste of an Italian Christmas in Singapore at Casa Ferrero

Ferrero, producer of the world's most celebrated praline, Ferrero Rocher, has brought back the magic of an Italian Christmas to Singapore this year. The elegance is what stands out when you enter Casa Ferrero, Ferrero's only pop-up store in Southeast Asia. The gold of the classic Ferrero Rocher praline is replicated throughout the store, complemented by the glint of crystal chandeliers, the comforting fragrance of espresso, and, of course, the distinctive hint of roasted hazelnuts which permeates the place.

Casa Ferrero is larger than last year's pop-up, Pasticceria Ferrero, which was also situated outside the Wisma Atria mall along Orchard Road in Singapore. Designed to recreate the atmosphere of an Italian mansion, Casa Ferrero features a mouthwatering chocolate-making demonstration on the right and a photo-wall on the left.

The pre-packaged Golden Gallery is exclusively available at Casa Ferrero (S$23). The gift box features Ferrero Manderly, Ferrero Rondnoir, Ferrero Tenderly White, and the classic Ferrero Rocher.

Shelves of softly glowing confectionery dominate the middle part of the store, inviting visitors to pick out and personalise with pralines and special edition morsels of indulgence exclusively available in Singapore at Casa Ferrero till early January 2016. Visitors will also be able to savour their pralines with a cup of complimentary espresso in a setting reminiscent of sidewalk Italian cafes. Exclusive Ferrero Gift Cards are available to accompany any gifts they choose to purchase.

Leonardo Perrone de Almeida, Marketing Director, South East Asia, Ferrero Asia said, "When we introduced the Pasticerria Ferrero last year, we were heartened by the response we got from customers who came from around the region. This year, we want to give Singapore a piece of the Italian experience as they select the perfect gift for their loved ones. Casa Ferrero not only continues to offer exclusive pralines not available at other times, but will also immerse shoppers in the heritage, culture and craftsmanship that has made Ferrero Rocher the praline of choice all over the world."

Leonardo Perrone de Almeida, Marketing Director, South East Asia, Ferrero Asia (left) looks on as Qi and Peh take turns to speak during the launch of the photo-wall.

Celebrity couple Joanne Peh and Qi Yuwu were once again present to join de Almeida in the ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the official opening of Casa Ferrero for the Christmas season. Peh revealed that the event is particularly significant as she had been pregnant with the couple's Jubilee baby - born on National Day 2015 - at the opening of Pasticceria Ferrero the year before, but had not known of it then.

A special card was created for their three-month-old daughter, who is celebrating her first Christmas this year. Peh spoke of being extremely moved when she looks at her firstborn and said she hopes to keeps traditions alive with her. "I like to do things with my hands and I hope that my daughter will share this tradition," she said, speaking about baking as an example.

Qi added that the couple is honoured to be at Casa Ferrero. "It has been a very memorable year," he said in Mandarin. "The place has a romantic atmosphere and I'm very happy to be here."

Ferrero is also extending the opportunity for a unique Italian creation online. Singapore-based shoppers can visit www.Ferreroitaliancreation.com to capture their own unique Ferrero Gift Card. Completing the experience is yet another iconic example of fine Italian craftsmanship - the Fiat Alfa Romeo Giulietta - which awaits the most creative card uploaded with the hashtag #FerreroltalianCreation. The Italian-made car is Ferrero's way of thanking Singaporeans for their love for its brand.

To bring Singaporeans into the heart of the making of Ferrero Rocher, Ferrero Master Chocolatiers Maria Grazia Andaloro and Beatrice Boero Cuttica have flown in from Italy to lead live demonstrations of the process that has made Ferrero Rocher the region's favourite praline.

"Casa Ferrero is our way of showing gratitude and appreciation to the consumers for their love and affection towards Ferrero Rocher. As the number one chocolate brand in Singapore. Ferrero Rocher has been a part of many precious moments. we want to continue helping Singaporeans create even more cherished memories with their loved ones, while also sharing with them the Italian heritage and craftsmanship," said de Almeida.

Ferrero Master Chocolatiers Cuttica (left) and Andaloro (right) working on the chocolate-dipping process (left) and covering the pralines with finely crushed hazelnuts on the right. The wafer cores of the confectionery are in the tray in the middle. 

Ferrero Rocher is made only with high quality ingredients, beginning with the handpicking of the finest of hazelnuts which form the heart of Ferrero Rocher. Each classic praline is handmade by Ferrero chefs who enclose whole hazelnuts in a wafer sphere and hazelnut cream, cover the spheres in an even layer of molten chocolate, and then toss the result in finely crushed roasted hazelnuts.

The different faces of parenthood. Qi (left) and Peh speak about the wonder of parenthood.

Detail of the photo-wall, which shows an Italian countryside background at the first blush of sunset.

Interested?

Casa Ferrero stocks the following pralines which are only available for the festive season at the pop up store: Ferrero Tenderly White (white chocolate, hazelnut), Ferrero Cappucino, Ferrero Tenderly Torroncino (milk chocolate, hazelnut), Ferrero Manderly (hazelnut cream and almond), Pocket Coffee, Kusschen White, Kusschen Milk, and Kusschen Dark. Raffaello and Ferrero Rondnoir (cocoa cream, dark chocolate, hazelnut) are also available in addition to the classic Ferrero Rocher. These pralines are part of the assortment in the Ferrero Collection. Ferrero Rocher has also brought its Christmas Limited Edition Grand Ferrero Rocher and the Christmas Pyramid to Singapore.

Chocolate-making demonstrations will be held over the next nine weekends from 4pm to 5pm and from 6pm to 7pm. View the Instagram video of the process

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the opening of Pasticceria Ferrero in 2014

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog posts about the 2015 festive season, including:

Singapore Gift Guide 2015, the pleasure edition
Singapore Gift Guide 2015, the tech edition

Who in APAC will be spending the most online, according to the Adobe Digital Index
How Facebook sees mobile redefining the season

Hong Kong's Winter Wonderland experience
The City of Sydney's Christmas programme

Sofitel So Singapore's French fusion Christmas menu
House of Sillage launches the Holiday by House of Sillage fragrance

Hashtag: #FerreroltalianCreation

posted from Bloggeroid

Prada opens new HK store in Causeway Bay

Prada has opened its ninth store in Hong Kong, in the Plaza 2000 Building in Causeway Bay. The space, designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi, covers 1,320 sq m and features both women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, accessories and footwear collections over three floors.

The external façade pays tribute to French-Venezuelan artist Carlo Cruz-Diez, one of the leaders of the kinetic art movement. The large entrance, light boxes and windows are inserted into the lower part of the façade, which is clad in black marble and crowned by a bronze and steel-coloured aluminium structure backlit to create a unique kinetic effect both day and night. Overall, the façade stands 15 m tall and stretches 45 m in length on both sides of the building, which is located on the corner of Russell Street and Canal Road East.

Roots opens flagship store in Beijing

Roots, a lifestyle apparel brand which also offers shoes and bags, has marked its success in Asia with its first flagship store in Beijing. In addition to the same Roots products available in the company's stores in Canada and the US, the Beijing store features a specialty athletic collection unique to Asia.

Source: Roots Tumblr. The Beijing store.

"It's extremely gratifying for us to see how much Canada and the Roots brand resonate with the Chinese," says Co-Founder Michael Budman. "The new store in Beijing is an exciting step forward in our expansion in this important market. It wouldn't have been possible without the tremendous work of our Asian partner, Branded Lifestyle. Based on what's happening in both China and Taiwan, the future looks incredibly bright for Roots in Asia."

The new store in Beijing is the largest of the 23 Roots locations in mainland China. Roots opened its 100th store in Taiwan in December 2014.

Jack Wills opens flagship store in Singapore, its 78th in the world

Cult British fashion brand Jack Wills has debuted in Singapore with the grand opening of its first store in Raffles City Shopping Centre on November 4. The brand has a strong following amongst some of the most quintessentially British style icons, including Princes William and Harry, Emma Watson and Cheryl Cole. Its registered trademark, “Fabulously British”, encapsulates the inspiration behind Jack Wills – quality goods that draw heavily on British heritage and style. 

A black-and-white store front
opens up to herringbone wood
flooring, bedecked with a hand-
painted Union Jack and a
colonial-inspired column divider
with velvet Union Jack curtains.

The Singapore outlet is the brand’s fourth store in Asia, and the first outside of Hong Kong since the company’s entered the region in 2011. 

The Fabulously British brand’s Global Business Development Director Sanjay Sharma said during the Grand Opening Party in Singapore that the Raffles City store had been two years in the planning. “Since we opened our first store in Hong Kong in 2011, I have watched Jack Wills grow and flourish in the region,” said Sharma. 

“In just three years, Asia has risen to become our second most important market, after the UK, and I am thrilled to be here in Singapore to launch our very first store in this sophisticated, fashion-forward country. The Raffles City store will become the 78th Jack Wills store in the world – with many more to come.”

Sharma said Singapore will be a regional hub from which to expand the brand into Southeast Asia, and as the flagship store, the store in Singapore will carry nearly all of the Jack Wills range.

Source: Jack Wills. Part of the
Christmas collection.

The 2,400 sq ft Raffles City store opens with the Jack Wills Autumn and Christmas 2014 collections. The Autumn 2014 collection includes a range of versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to reflect several style tribes, while the Christmas 2014 collection features festive hues, soft textures and iconic “Made in Britain” outerwear. 

Men's long-sleeved shirts on display
at the store.

Jack Wills is renowned for the impeccable quality of their men’s shirting, and for the Christmas season the classic Salcombe Shirt is made from polished Oxford cotton for a nod to traditional dress shirts, and then reimagined in modern eye-catching prints. 

Women’s shirts are reinvented in lighter, more feminine fabrications like the semi-sheer chiffon. Tops have been crafted from intricate lace to build on the quality, indulgent feel on the range. The collections are available in-store and online, and visitors to the boutique can also shop for accessories, homeware and gifts (boxsets from the Christmas collection are pictured below). 

The three Jack Wills stores in Hong Kong are at Leighton Centre, Ocean Terminal and Festival Walk, with a fourth at New Town Plaza opening in December. A store in Macau is also opening this month.