If you frequently Holland Villagechances are you have been there or at least passed by Khiam Teck. This charming old-school party supply store, nestled between a variety of restaurants and cafes, has been more than 80 yearsI hate to give bad news, but the store is due to close on June 30, 2024.
According to CNA Lifestyle, Khiam Teck’s impending closure is due to declining customer footfall and demand over the years. The shop owner, Mr Ang Cheng Hai, revealed that “if we’re lucky”, they see around 10 customers a day, a stark contrast to the 100 or so customers daily before the pandemic.
This could be due to the importance of e-commerce, which has unfortunately led to a decline in the popularity of traditional stores.
Today, Mr. Ang runs the store with his sister, Mrs. Ang. The store was funded by their late father using Kickstarter, so they are now second-generation owners. Since it is a family business, a “lethal” rent was not a problem for them. However, the extended family has come to the joint decision to close the store in light of declining sales.
With its old-fashioned floor tiles, dim neon lighting and outdated sign, the shop really does feel like it has stood still in time. In fact, it dates back to before World War II!
With its closure scheduled for the end of June, Khiam Teck will join the ranks of several traditional stores that have closed, the most notable of which may be Thambi Magazine Store, a similar long-standing staple in Holland Village that has been in business for more than eight decades.
Given that many people flocked to the iconic newsstand in the days leading up to its closure on May 5, I think the same could happen for Khiam Teck. Besides, it would be fun to revisit the 90s and the Noughties with a little money to spend on party supplies? With that in mind, you’re probably curious about what to expect there; let’s get started!
You will first be greeted by several shelves old school greeting cards, Wrapping paper and packages from Foil balloonsYou will be particularly impressed by the variety of colorful egg-shaped containers hung in mesh bags and lined up in their glass counters.
Another eye-catcher is certainly the variety of PiñataS made in different shapes, for example as a birthday cake, fire engine and even as an entire princess castle.
Step inside and you will find shelf after shelf with Knick-knacks and toys like plastic animals and even the good old five stones and marbles.
If you had made your visit a few days ago, you would have seen Old school card games with characters like Old Maid, Snap and Donkey among the traditional cardboard versions of Board games like ladders, airplanes and even chess sets. Unfortunately they are now sold out.
Honestly though, what I’ve written barely scratches the surface; who knows what other gems you’ll discover? Don’t miss the unforgettable last hurrah moment before they close their doors forever!
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