Nine in 10 to shift spending to Johor as RTS Link nears

Groceries top the list of categories losing out at 56%.

Nearly 90% of respondents plan to spend money in Johor Bahru monthly once the Rapid Transit System Link opens, according to a survey from Blackbox Research.

Forty-two percent said they will spend between $100 to 249, 22% said $250 to $499, 7% said $500 to $999, and 3% said $1,000 or more.

Meanwhile, a minority said they are unsure (8%) or will not spend at all (2%).

“The average Singaporean adult says they will move about $250 of their spending from Singapore to Johor Bahru per month, equivalent to ~$3,000 annually, after the RTS opens fully,” the report said.

As spending shifts to Johor Bahru, 56% of respondents said groceries and everyday household items are expected to be the most affected category to receive less spending in Singapore.

Clothing, footwear, and accessories (52%), casual dining, cafes, and takeaway food (43%), health, beauty, and personal-care products (37%), and personal services (36%) are also expected to take a hit.

Other affected categories include hotels and staycations (27%), entertainment and family activities (21%), electronics (15%), premium dining (14%), home furnishings (9%), nightlife (8%), fitness activities (8%), and other (2%).

However, 10% said they do not expect to spend less in Singapore, whilst a further 4% are unsure.

“Singapore firms relying solely on basic convenience or price competition face immediate risks; survival means offering distinct value,” Blackbox said.