Sheng Siong ready to adjust prices before JB-S’pore RTS Link opens in Jan. 2027

Sheng Siong is ready to review its prices and product range in anticipation of the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link opening in January 2027.

This is to retain shoppers in the face of more competition in the grocery sector.

“The retail grocery industry remains competitive, and with the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link set to open in 2027, we stand ready to adapt our pricing, promotions and product mix as necessary to remain competitive,” Sheng Siong chief executive Lim Hock Chee said on Jul. 29, according to its financial report.

Actual impact uncertain

The RTS Link may intensify price competition for some groceries and household products, Sheng Siong said in its statement.

"However, the actual impact remains uncertain and will depend on factors such as fares, travel time, exchange rates, relative pricing, and consumer behaviour after operations commence," the statement added.

Sheng Siong announced its financial results for the first half of 2026, filed with the local exchange.

Singaporeans are projected to spend S$1.05 billion more in Malaysia once the rail link opens, according to a joint Jul. 16 study by the Singapore Business Federation, the Restaurant Association of Singapore and the Singapore Retailers Association.

A 51 per cent annual increase in Singapore consumers crossing over to Johor Bahru in 2027 was also projected.

Groceries, pharmaceuticals, dining and beauty top the list of categories Singaporeans spend on.

Sheng Siong still expanding

Despite the prospective headwinds, Sheng Siong is still expanding in Singapore.

Three new stores will open in Hougang, Rivervale in Sengkang, and Woodlands between July and September.

The outcome of a tender for another store is pending, while two more tenders are expected to be called over the next six to 12 months.

Sheng Siong also commenced a partnership with foodpanda in June to increase its online market.

Sheng Siong’s S$520 million Sungei Kadut distribution centre broke ground on Jul. 13.

The seven-storey facility is expected to be completed in 2029 and will help see to the optimisation of costs.

Sheng Siong now has a network of 90 stores in Singapore.

Four stores opened in 2026 in Canberra Crescent, New Bridge Centre in Smith Street, Alkaff Crescent, and Sembawang Crescent.

Sheng Siong’s revenue rose 11.9 per cent year on year to S$855.4 million in the first half of 2026.

Its net profit rose by 11.9 per cent over the same period to S$81 million, partly driven by consumer spending supported by CDC vouchers and promotions.