Government introduces refreshed digital roadmap and new incubator programme to help retailers adopt AI and grow sustainably
Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Ms Low Yen Ling announced new initiatives to strengthen Singapore’s retail sector during her speech at “Retail Reimagined – From Now to Next” on 26 May 2026.
Speaking at the event organised by Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), Ms Low said Singapore’s retail industry continues to play an important role in the economy despite rising costs, manpower shortages, and growing competition from global e-commerce companies.
She highlighted that retailers must embrace technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), while continuing to provide good customer service. Ms Low said businesses that understand their customers and improve efficiency through digital tools will be better positioned for future growth.
One of the key announcements was the launch of a refreshed Retail Industry Digital Plan (IDP), developed by EnterpriseSG and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA). The updated plan will guide retailers in using AI-powered technologies and digital solutions across their entire business operations.
The refreshed IDP focuses on helping retailers identify operational challenges and adopt suitable digital solutions more easily. It also aims to support SMEs that may still be unsure about how to apply AI in their businesses.
Ms Low shared examples of companies already benefiting from technology adoption. Far East Flora introduced self-checkout systems at its Clementi flagship store, reducing cashier workload by up to 40 per cent and improving customer waiting times. The company also used AI-assisted marketing tools, which increased returns by up to 10 per cent without raising marketing costs.
Another SME, The Canary Diamond Co, developed an AI-powered digital training system with support from EnterpriseSG’s AI Catalyst Programme and Nanyang Polytechnic. The system helps sales staff access real-time product information and receive feedback on their sales performance.
Ms Low also stressed the importance of workforce transformation and reskilling. Retailers are encouraged to work with EnterpriseSG and Workforce Singapore to redesign jobs and train workers to use new technologies effectively.
In addition to digitalisation efforts, Ms Low announced the launch of the Retail Accelerator at L^IFE by Innovate360. Supported by EnterpriseSG and developed with the Singapore Retailers Association and Innovate360, the two-year incubator programme will support 16 local retail brands at *SCAPE.
The programme will provide subsidised rental space, mentorship, workshops, and opportunities for international expansion. Participating brands will also learn how to integrate digital tools and AI into their businesses from the beginning.
Ms Low said the initiative aims to help local entrepreneurs test new retail concepts, strengthen Singapore’s retail ecosystem, and enhance the country’s reputation as a global lifestyle destination.
She encouraged retailers to make full use of the refreshed Retail IDP and government support schemes to continue growing and transforming their businesses.
Source: MTI
