The SRA Retail Awards Gala Dinner 2024 was a spectacular celebration of excellence, innovation, and resilience within the retail industry. Over 600 retailers, together with their dedicated teams, landlords, tenants, and business partners, gathered in their finest attire to honor the outstanding achievements that drive the sector forward.
The evening featured a perfect blend of networking, entertainment, and recognition. Guests were treated to inspiring speeches and memorable moments that highlighted the vibrancy and creativity of the retail industry.
One of the key highlights of the night was the presentation of awards across 11 prestigious categories, showcasing the exceptional accomplishments of individuals, retailers, and shopping malls. Each award reflected the hard work, ingenuity, and forward-thinking spirit of the nominees and winners, who continue to set new benchmarks for the industry.
We were privileged to have Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State for the Ministry of Trade & Industry and Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth, as our Guest of Honour, whose presence added prestige to the evening.
This extraordinary night was made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and the dedication of the SRA team. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a resounding success.
As we look back on this incredible evening, we also look forward to the year ahead, continuing to celebrate and inspire excellence within the retail community. We can’t wait to welcome you back for the next SRA Retail Awards Gala Dinner in 2025!
A Heartfelt Thank You for Making the SRA Gala Night 2024 a Resounding Success!
We are thrilled to express our deepest gratitude to all who attended and made the Singapore Retailers Association Gala Night 2024 such a memorable and meaningful event. This evening was a remarkable celebration of the incredible achievements within the retail industry, a night where innovation, hard work, and dedication were honored. From inspiring speeches to engaging networking sessions, the Gala Night truly showcased the dynamic and ever-evolving retail landscape of Singapore.
At the heart of this event’s success were the connections and collaborations formed throughout the evening. It was a wonderful opportunity for professionals across the retail sector to come together, share experiences, and build lasting relationships. We were also privileged to recognize the outstanding achievements of those who have contributed to the growth and success of the retail industry.
We would also like to take this opportunity to extend our most sincere thanks to our esteemed sponsors. Your unwavering support, both in terms of resources and commitment, was vital in making the Gala Night possible. Your involvement played an integral role in creating an event that celebrated both the present and the future of the retail industry. Together, we are setting the stage for even greater successes ahead.
A big thank you to our incredible sponsors:
Singtel
CapitaLand
Commune
FairPrice Group
Cold Storage
CS Fresh
Giant
OSIM
Singapore Pools
Eu Yan Sang
Comexposium
Porcelain Skincare
Anna Rain
Invade
The Star Vista
Workforce Singapore
Your continued partnership and investment in the retail industry are crucial to its ongoing evolution. We are incredibly proud to work alongside such esteemed organizations that share our commitment to fostering innovation, growth, and excellence within the retail sector.
The Gala Night was not only a celebration of the past year’s accomplishments, but also a powerful reminder of the potential for future success. We look forward to continued collaborations and working together with all of you to drive growth, inspire creativity, and create a brighter future for the retail industry in Singapore.
Here’s to many more memorable moments, fruitful partnerships, and incredible achievements ahead. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of us in the retail industry!
Thank you once again to everyone who made the SRA Gala Night 2024 a grand success. Your participation and contributions were truly invaluable!
Winner of the SRA Retail Awards 2024:
Retailer of the Year- Singtel (Singapore Telecommunications Ltd)
In addition to its innovative features, Singtel’s flagship store embodies a commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices into its operations. By prioritizing green initiatives and enhancing customer engagement through personalized services and cutting-edge technology, Singtel has demonstrated excellence in leadership and retail innovation. This award celebrates their unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences while setting a high standard for the future of retail in Singapore and beyond.
Retail Leader of the Year- Christian Honegger
Christian’s forward-thinking strategies and dedication to fostering strong customer relationships have set a new benchmark for the retail industry. His unwavering commitment to innovation, coupled with his ability to inspire and empower his team, has propelled TC Acoustic to new heights, making him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious accolade.
Best Experiential Retail Store- L’Oréal Singapore Pte Ltd (Kiehl’s Raffles City)
L’Oréal Singapore Pte Ltd (Kiehl’s Raffles City) was awarded Best Experiential Retail Store for its innovative and customer-focused retail concept that elevates skincare shopping into an immersive experience. Kiehl’s Raffles City redefines traditional retail by creating an inviting environment with interactive displays, personalized product zones, and a strong focus on storytelling.
The store features distinct experiential elements such as the “Skin Soothers” and “Ultra Hydrators” consultation table, which guides customers through curated skincare solutions. The “Customer Favorites” wall highlights bestsellers and customer testimonials, fostering a sense of community and trust. Furthermore, the luxurious facial cabins provide an exclusive pampering experience, blending retail and self-care seamlessly. These innovative features, paired with striking visual merchandising and attention to detail, make Kiehl’s Raffles City a trailblazer in experiential retail, offering customers a truly memorable journey.
Best Retail Customer Experience Initiative- ION Orchard Shopping Mall (Orchard Turn Developments Pte Ltd)
ION Orchard Shopping Mall was awarded the prestigious Best Retail Customer Experience Initiative for its unwavering commitment to redefining the shopping experience through innovation and customer-centric services. As a leading retail destination, ION Orchard consistently places its customers at the heart of its initiatives, creating a seamless and engaging journey for every visitor.
The mall has embraced cutting-edge digital integration, enhancing the shopping experience through its personalized loyalty programs and mobile app, which provide real-time updates on promotions, store navigation, and exclusive rewards. Beyond technology, ION Orchard has transformed its spaces into hubs of inspiration with curated events, art installations, and brand activations that captivate and engage visitors. The introduction of luxury concierge services, such as VIP lounges and personal shopping assistance, adds a bespoke touch to the customer experience, making every shopper feel valued and appreciated. By blending innovation, personalized services, and an inviting atmosphere, ION Orchard has truly set a new standard for excellence in retail customer experience.
Best Retail Sustainability Initiative- Fairprice Group
The FairPrice Group was awarded the Best Retail Sustainability Initiative for its exemplary efforts in addressing food waste and promoting environmental responsibility. Through initiatives such as the IMPERFECT program, FairPrice has successfully salvaged over 946 tonnes of fruits and vegetables in 2023, reducing waste and offering affordable produce to customers. Additionally, their Community Fridge program redistributes over a tonne of surplus food monthly to food banks and charities, ensuring that edible food benefits those in need rather than going to waste.
FairPrice’s comprehensive food waste hierarchy prioritizes prevention, donation, and valorization. By transforming food waste into resources such as animal feed, compost, or energy, they demonstrate a holistic approach to sustainability. These efforts, coupled with their innovative practices, have set a benchmark for sustainable retail operations, reflecting their commitment to both environmental stewardship and community welfare.
Best Efforts In Corporate Social Responsibility- UOL Group Limited
UOL Group Limited was awarded the Best Efforts in Corporate Social Responsibility for its outstanding dedication to community engagement, sustainability, and charitable initiatives that have made a significant impact on society. Through their “UOL Gives Back” program, the company has implemented meaningful projects such as “Change for Charity,” which encouraged shoppers to donate via their loyalty program, raising over $9,000 to support the Community Chest. During the festive season, initiatives like “Make A Wish Come True” fulfilled the holiday wishes of 125 children from underprivileged families, fostering joy and inclusivity.
UOL’s CSR efforts extend beyond charity to include sustainability campaigns, such as the “Green Movement with U,” which promotes eco-conscious behavior among retailers and shoppers, with activities like recycling education and a green market. Additionally, UOL has partnered with organizations like ART:DIS to support persons with disabilities through art workshops and exhibitions. These initiatives reflect UOL’s holistic approach to corporate responsibility, creating a positive impact across environmental, social, and community domains while inspiring others to contribute to a better future.
Best Efforts in Centre Management (Shopping Mall)- Causeway Point
Causeway Point was awarded the Best Efforts in Centre Management (Shopping Mall) for its exceptional dedication to creating a seamless, engaging, and customer-focused retail environment. The mall has demonstrated outstanding management practices by continuously enhancing tenant relationships, optimizing operational efficiency, and prioritizing customer satisfaction.
Causeway Point has implemented innovative solutions, such as digital directories and loyalty programs, to simplify the shopping journey and improve accessibility. Additionally, the mall’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement is evident in its eco-friendly initiatives and efforts to host inclusive events that cater to diverse audiences. Through strategic management and forward-thinking practices, Causeway Point has established itself as a leader in retail excellence, offering an exemplary model for shopping mall management.
Best Efforts in Advertising & Promotions- Raffles City Shopping CentreRaffles City Shopping Centre was awarded the Best Efforts in Advertising & Promotions for its innovative and impactful marketing campaigns that successfully elevated its brand presence and engaged customers. By blending creativity with strategic execution, the shopping centre delivered promotional initiatives that resonated with diverse audiences, driving footfall and enhancing customer loyalty.
One standout effort includes their integrated campaigns combining digital and in-mall experiences, leveraging interactive social media content, influencer collaborations, and exclusive retail promotions. Seasonal events and creative activations, such as holiday-themed displays and limited-time pop-ups, further captured shopper interest and created buzz. These efforts, coupled with a strong focus on storytelling and customer engagement, positioned Raffles City as a leader in effective advertising and promotions, setting a high standard for the retail industry.
My Favourite Shopping Mall- Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi Airport was crowned My Favourite Shopping Mall after receiving overwhelming support and recognition from the public. As one of Singapore’s most iconic retail destinations, Jewel captured the hearts of shoppers with its seamless blend of world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rain Vortex and lush indoor greenery.
This award was driven by the voices of our community, with Jewel receiving over 400 comments and votes on our Instagram page—making it the most celebrated and talked-about mall in this category. Its unique combination of retail excellence and experiential attractions continues to draw locals and tourists alike, solidifying its place as a true favourite in the hearts of many.
Retail Executive of the Year- Ng Yan Shen (Singtel)
Ng Yan Shen, Retail Planning Manager at Singtel, was awarded Retail Executive of the Year for his visionary leadership, dedication to retail innovation, and impactful contributions to the industry. Yan Shen has been instrumental in driving key retail projects, including the highly successful renovation and transformation of the flagship Singtel Shop at 313@somerset, which has become a benchmark for customer experience and sustainability. His work earned Singtel the prestigious BCA Green Mark Platinum certification, underscoring his commitment to eco-friendly practices in retail.
Beyond store planning, Yan Shen’s passion for retail extends to engaging and inspiring customers through creative initiatives. As the official host for Singtel’s TikTok livestreams, including high-profile events such as the iPhone 16 launch, he has effectively combined digital engagement with retail excellence. Yan Shen’s ability to mentor his team and foster strategic collaborations has not only elevated Singtel’s retail presence but also set new standards for the industry. His commitment to pushing boundaries and creating innovative, customer-focused experiences makes him a deserving recipient of this accolade.
Retail Manager of the Year- Marappah Gounder S/O Saminathan (Giant)
Marappah Gounder S/O Saminathan, affectionately known as Mara, was awarded Retail Manager of the Year for his exemplary leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to retail excellence. With over 24 years of experience in the retail industry, Mara has been instrumental in transforming Giant into a leading supermarket chain. From spearheading product diversification initiatives to driving operational efficiency, his efforts have significantly boosted sales, improved profitability, and enhanced customer satisfaction across multiple stores.
As an Operations Manager overseeing 16 Giant outlets and managing over 400 team members, Mara leads with passion and purpose. His focus on talent development, operational excellence, and community engagement has set him apart as a true industry leader. Mara’s initiatives, such as the successful rebranding of Giant stores and the introduction of fresh and upscale product ranges, have elevated the brand’s image and created superior shopping experiences for customers. His dedication to mentoring his team and fostering a collaborative environment exemplifies his leadership style, making him a valued role model in the retail sector. Mara’s accomplishments reflect his remarkable ability to adapt to industry trends, deliver impactful results, and inspire those around him.
THANK YOU!
Lastly, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our nominees, winners, and attendees for making this year’s gala a truly memorable celebration of retail excellence. Your dedication and passion continue to inspire the industry.
For those who aspire to join this esteemed community and be part of the next SRA Retail Awards, we invite you to become an SRA member. Enjoy exclusive benefits, be invited to our gala, and stand a chance to have your achievements recognized on Singapore’s most prestigious retail stage. To join, click here, and let’s celebrate your success together!