Robinsons to open in Kuala Lumpur

After 66 years of ceasing its operation in Malaysia, Singapore-based retailer Robinsons will make its grand comeback on the forthcoming September. Robinsons, which was once hailed as the Harrods of Malaya back in the pre-war days, will open its first Malaysian store in more than 60 years at The Gardens, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur. With a total floorspace of 80 000 sqft., the Malaysian branch is a part of the company's retail business expansion in the region.

Commenting on the expansion to Malaysia, CEO of Robinsons, John Cheston, said “ We are very excited about this new opportunity. It will allow us to leverage on the strong brand name of Robinsons to bring to the Malaysian customers desirable products with exceptional quality at affordable prices. The present Mid Valley Mall is already enjoying a high volume of shoppers. The opening of The Gardens in September 2007 will further strengthen the existing mega mall size to become one of the most exciting shopping destinations in Kuala Lumpur”.

Apart from opening the first Robinson store, the company, which owns the right to Malaysian franchise of British retailer Marks and Spencer is planning to open another Marks and Spencer store at The Gardens, making it a total of three stores altogether within the Klang Valley.

Founded by Philip Robinson and James Garborian Spicer in 1858, the department store survived two World Wars and the Great Depression Eras. Back in the pre-independence days, Robinsons was the first department store opened in Malaya and frequented by both British expatriates and well-to-do locals.

Its loyal customers back then were Malay rulers and King Mongkut of Thailand. Today, the former Robinsons department stores building has been turned into the headquarters for OCBC Bank in Malaysia.

Recently, Robinson Group opened its new store at the new wing of Centerpoint, Singapore. The 30 000 sqft. store offers a multitude of sporting brands and stylish and sturdy traveling accessories. At Level 6, kids will be amazed as the whole floor is dedicated to them with various ranges of high-quality toys and apparels for the little ones. So if you happened to be in the Lion City, do visit the new Robinsons at New Wing Centerpoint.

*Photos courtesy of Robinsons and Co.

Robinsons Centerpoint - 176 Orchard Road, #05-05, Centerpoint Singapore 238843.