Retail company FJ Benjamin Holdings Ltd. is in the news for all the right reasons. Recently, the fashion retailer had been forced to shut shop on account of the pandemic. Relying on online sales was not a safe option, then, owing to which the firm had to pull down the shutters on almost 300 of its stores spread across Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.

However, within the last two months, the retailer has bounced back with gusto. Readily facing the challenges that came up on because of the pandemic, FJ Benjamin has launched e-commerce stores for Pretty Ballerina, Guess, and Casio. It has even brought forth Anti-Social Social Club to the market – an American streetwear label that is debuting in Singapore, online.

It has been revealed that the company has further plans to roll out online stores for close to seven more luxury and fashion brands such as Rebecca Minkoff and Lancel, in the three nations where it operates. Brands that don’t have a physical store in the in Singapore, like Dr Barbara Sturm – the skincare line, and Axel Arigato – the Swedish footwear retailer, will also have an online presence.

Commenting on the present scenario, Nash Benjamin, Chief Executive Officer, FJ Benjamin, has been quoted to state that it is indeed amazing for the firm to analyze what works and what doesn’t, sans the hassle of investing in store fit-outs or leases. Going forward, the company plans to focus more on experimenting with online formats prior to committing to bring-and-mortals storefronts, the CEO added.

Currently, the company plans to reopen 15 of its stores, as Singapore enters the second phase of easing restrictions. The stores may open by the end of the month.

Mr. Benjamin was also quoted to say that while the lockdown restrictions such as social distancing may impact the business for a while, the firm is confident that its current omni-channel tactic will deliver positive results.

Source Credits: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/fj-benjamin-launching-online-only-labels-venturing-beyond-fashion