The landscape of retail shopping in Singapore continues to evolve. One of the most notable upcoming changes is the closure of Isetan Serangoon Central at NEX Mall in April 2026. This move will mark a new chapter for the beloved Japanese department store, leaving only its Orchard Road flagship, Isetan Scotts, operating in the country. As consumers adapt to shifting retail trends and brands reconsider long-term strategies, Isetan’s announcement has sparked both curiosity and nostalgia among shoppers.
In this article, we break down the details behind the closure, the history of Isetan in Singapore, and what customers can expect moving forward.
Isetan NEX to Close in April 2026
The Official Announcement
NEX Mall confirmed the upcoming closure through a Facebook post on December 8. The mall expressed its gratitude to Isetan for fifteen years of partnership, highlighting the store’s role in shaping the mall’s retail experience since it opened. Although the announcement stirred immediate public reaction, NEX did not indicate what new tenant or concept will replace the space currently occupied by Isetan. Instead, the mall hinted that shoppers can expect fresh and exciting offerings as part of future redevelopment plans.
Why the Closure Matters
As one of the most visited malls in the Serangoon area, NEX has long been a convenient hub for families, commuters, and residents. Isetan’s presence provided a diverse selection of home, fashion, lifestyle, and beauty goods. The store’s departure marks the end of an era for shoppers who have frequented it over the past decade and a half.
Orchard Road Flagship Becomes the Sole Isetan Store
Isetan Scotts Remains Operational
With the Serangoon Central outlet shutting down in 2026, Isetan Scotts at Shaw House will stand as the only remaining Isetan store in Singapore. Located along the iconic Orchard Road shopping belt, the flagship store is known for its high-quality Japanese products, curated collections, and exceptional customer service.
While Isetan Singapore has not released a formal post about the closure, the brand did respond to online inquiries. Customers were encouraged to continue shopping at Isetan Scotts, reinforcing the company’s commitment to maintaining its flagship operations.
A Look Back at Isetan’s Retail Journey in Singapore
Over 50 Years of Retail Presence
Isetan first entered the Singapore market in 1972, positioning itself as a premium department store offering Japanese lifestyle experiences. Over the decades, the brand expanded across various locations island-wide, adapting to the city’s rapid retail growth and evolving consumer expectations.
Recent Consolidation Efforts
The NEX Mall closure follows a similar move in November, when Isetan shuttered its Tampines Mall outlet after thirty years of operations. According to a company spokesperson, the decision was made after careful evaluation of local conditions and long-term profitability. These strategic shifts reflect a larger trend in Singapore’s retail sector, where increasing operational costs and rising competition have led several major brands to consolidate or rethink their business formats.
What Shoppers Can Expect Next
Future Plans for NEX Mall
Although NEX has not confirmed what will replace Isetan, the mall emphasized its commitment to enhancing visitor experience. This suggests potential new anchor tenants or innovative retail concepts in the coming years. As consumer demand shifts toward experiential shopping, lifestyle-driven stores, and hybrid retail-entertainment models, NEX’s upcoming announcements will likely draw significant attention.
Continued Access to Isetan’s Offerings
Despite the closure, customers will still be able to access Isetan’s full range of merchandise at Isetan Scotts. As the company refocuses its operations on a single flagship, shoppers may eventually see expanded collections, exclusive events, and more curated Japanese brands at the Orchard Road location.
Conclusion
Isetan’s decision to close its NEX Mall store in April 2026 represents a major transformation for one of Singapore’s most established department store brands. While long-time customers may feel the loss of a familiar shopping destination, the move also signals Isetan’s strategy to strengthen and streamline its presence through its Orchard Road flagship.
As the retail landscape continues to shift, consumers can look forward to new developments at NEX Mall and a potentially enhanced shopping experience at Isetan Scotts. For now, Singaporeans have more than a year to enjoy the NEX outlet before it bids farewell after fifteen memorable years.
