After nearly three decades as a familiar presence in Tampines Mall, Isetan will be closing its doors this November. In a Facebook post shared on Tuesday (May 6), the mall announced that the Japanese department store, which has been in operation since the mall's opening in 1996, will be shutting down. Known for offering a variety of apparel and beauty products, Isetan has been a mainstay for many shoppers over the years.

The mall hinted at a major revamp following the closure, promising an “exciting new chapter” with a refreshed shopping experience focused on the latest in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle — though no specific details were provided. Once the Tampines outlet closes, only two Isetan stores will remain in Singapore: Isetan Scotts at Orchard and Isetan Serangoon Central. A company representative told The Straits Times that the decision to exit was due to the lease reaching its end.

The announcement has prompted online discussion, especially on Reddit’s r/Singapore thread, where users speculated that department stores like Isetan may be gradually disappearing — much like John Little and Yaohan, which closed in 2016 and 1998 respectively. Some commenters blamed rising prices, increased competition, and the rise of e-commerce for the closure. One user noted that many shoppers now prefer buying directly from suppliers online, while another pointed out that Isetan’s prices often drive people to look elsewhere.