Businesses at Leisure Park Kallang are grappling with declining foot traffic and dwindling sales following the March closure of its long-time anchor tenant, Cold Storage. SMU Associate Professor of Marketing (Education) Seshan Ramaswami said that mass marketers like supermarkets and cinemas often lead to destination retailing, where shoppers make that outlet the reason for visiting the mall, and the other smaller tenants then benefit from the foot traffic that is created. Asso Prof Ramaswami noted the mall could make up for the loss of anchor tenants by attracting other leisure and hobby businesses, and reinforcing its position as a leisure destination. SMU Assistant Professor of Arts and cultural Management (Practice) David Ocon said that to stay competitive, Leisure Park could reposition itself with a "clear niche" and introduce experiential concepts that align with Kallang's leisure and sports identity. Asst Prof Ocon suggested having pop-up markets, holding community and sports events, and partnering with small businesses or fitness operators to boost footfall beyond retail.
