Latest news with #ColdStorage
AsiaOne
18-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- AsiaOne
Why we chose a walk-up apartment (yes, with no lift) for our first home, Lifestyle News
When SL and her spouse picked their first home, they selected something a little less common: not a flat or a condo, but an old-school walk-up apartment, with a fantastic Holland V location and greater privacy. Their story explains why walk-ups are growing in popularity among young Singaporean couples and the advantages of this niche property segment: Location as the main draw SL says their choice of a walk-up apartment was about location first; convenience and the vibe of the project came third. She says: "We liked Holland Village, and the recent addition of One Holland Village is a huge plus with the overall vibes of the location catering to lifestyle…for convenience, it is near Holland MRT station, and less than five minutes to FairPrice, Cold Storage, Little Farms, and plenty of food options. "The walk up is situated in a development that is more than 40 years old. Despite its age, it was nicely maintained — the building had a fresh coat of paint and had some facade repairs — and the public spaces were taken care of." The only real drawback, location wise, was the lack of schools in the area. But the couple had already checked out walk-ups in other areas like Tiong Bahru, Siglap, Telok Kurau and others. These alternatives were filtered out because of other factors like layout, poor maintenance, weaker amenities, etc., leaving their Holland V home the final best choice. SL says: "We were drawn to Holland Village because it offers the perfect balance for our first home together. It has a lively, charming vibe with plenty of great cafes, food options, and character, but still feels peaceful when we want to wind down… It really feels like a place we can grow into as a couple, and maybe start a family." Dealing with the innate issues of a walk-up apartment One of the main problems with walk-ups, as the name implies, is the lack of a lift. But SL isn't a stranger to having to use stairs: "Having lived on the second floor before, the lack of a lift was not something that discouraged us from buying the third-floor walk up. This may become an issue for us when we age, of course. We'll revisit this when we are in our 50s! But for the more immediate term, we know that there will be some discomforts and inconveniences to be had when renovating, moving in furniture, or collecting food or parcels from the delivery people since some of them may not want to climb up floors." This also posed some issues during the renovation. The couple said that movers often charge extra depending on the number of floors, and some delivery persons might even refuse to bring larger items up. You also have to consider whether certain items can even fit up the stairwell, which can be "a bit of a logistical challenge." Walk-ups also tend to be quite old, but in SL's case, the building was well maintained, and this was a mitigating factor. The only age issue so far has been the lack of a reliable floor plan; it's not uncommon for older properties to lack these (for projects in the 1970s and earlier, for example, there may only be paper records, which are long lost.) Even if the floor plans can't be found, the layouts do tend to be more spacious and practical "What we noticed was that older developments often had more versatile and easier-to-configure layouts compared to some of the newer ones," SL says. "We were quite particular about avoiding units with bay windows or odd corners, especially common in condos built during a certain period, as those tend to eat into usable space. What really drew us to the unit we chose was its squarish, efficient layout. It gave us the flexibility to plan our space the way we wanted, without having to work around awkward features or wasted corners." SL refers to a period around the 2010s, when developers built exceptionally big planter boxes, bay windows, air-con ledges, etc. ,for the sole purpose of ramping up the price (as you need to pay for all that square footage). Walk-ups, being a different and older property segment, escaped the inefficiencies of this particular era. The serenity and privacy of a walk-up apartment Walk-ups tend to feel more private than condos, if for no other reason than the unit count. SL notes that there are fewer units per block, and a more niche group of residents: younger families, lifelong singles, investors setting up co-living spaces, etc. Some units are rented out to foreign workers, but SL says they "mostly kept to themselves and were generally friendly." She says a lot of this depends on the area and the specific walk-up though. For example, parking hasn't been an issue for her: many of the residents at her walk-up don't drive as it's so close to public transport, so there's usually ample space available. This may not be true for some other walk-ups though, such as those within landed enclaves, where residents tend to be reliant on private transport. The supposed "lack of facilities" can also be a plus in some ways Condo facilities mean maintenance fees; the fancier, the more expensive. As of 2025, typical condos have fees ranging between $350 to $450 per month (some higher-end projects can go into four-digit figures). SL says the couple never saw the lack of facilities as a drawback: "We saw it as a bit of a plus. Our development still has the essentials like a pool, function room, and BBQ pit, and it's spacious enough without feeling crowded. What we appreciated most was the lower maintenance fees — ours is under $300 a month — which felt like a fair trade-off. There's also less foot traffic and noise from things like big family gatherings or birthday parties, so the environment stays pretty peaceful." Walk-ups as potential undervalued gems SL agrees that walk-ups are not for everyone; but if you know what you're looking for and are clear about your needs, they can offer great value, especially in terms of space and location. Given the price point for the size and location, they can be undervalued gems. (And like gems, they do need digging for, as the information available tends to be more limited — so prepare to do a bit more legwork.) She says that: "Many people tend to overlook them because of the stairs or lack of flashy facilities, but that also means less competition and more opportunity to find something with real character. "For buyers new to walk-ups, the condition of the units can be a sticking point — they often require a full renovation or a creative eye to bring out their potential…of course, there are trade-offs, but for us, the benefits have definitely outweighed the downsides. "As long as you go in with your eyes open — knowing what to expect and what you're getting into — they can be a really smart and rewarding choice." For now, SL considers their walk-up to be a long-term home; something they can live in for many years, or even rent if their needs change. This makes it a versatile property, with uses that can be adapted to their current lifestyle needs. So while it can take more work on the renovation front (and more viewings,) walk-ups might present an interesting alternative between condos and HDB flats in the pricey 2025 market; especially for those who prioritise space and privacy. [[nid:717866]] This article was first published in Stackedhomes.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
CDC Vouchers 2025 just released
On 13 May 2025, Singaporean households received S$500 in Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers. These May 2025 CDC vouchers are part of the 2025 Budget's enhanced Assurance Package, designed to mitigate cost-of-living pressures amid global economic challenges. An additional S$300 in CDC vouchers will be paid out in Jan 2026, bringing the total to S$800 for the financial year. The May 2025 CDC vouchers are evenly split: S$250 for use at participating heartland merchants and hawkers, and S$250 for supermarkets like NTUC FairPrice, Sheng Siong, Cold Storage, Giant Singapore, HAO Mart, Prime Supermarket and U Stars Supermarket. With this approach, both local businesses and Singaporean homes benefit. Over 97% of households claimed the previous January tranche, spending more than S$324 million, mainly on food and groceries. Households with at least one Singapore citizen can access their vouchers via To claim them, just one member of these eligible households needs to log in with their Singpass. They will receive a unique voucher link for the home via SMS. This link can be shared with the rest of the household so each member can use it concurrently. The May 2025 CDC vouchers are valid until 31 Dec 2025. Supermarkets are running promotions to coincide with this launch. FairPrice Group, Cold Storage and Giant are offering a S$6 return voucher for every S$60 spent in a single CDC voucher transaction from 13 to 19 May 2025. There is no minimum spend when you use the return voucher. All adult Singaporeans will also receive SG60 vouchers in Jul 2025. All citizens above the age of 21 will get S$600 while seniors aged 60 and above will receive S$800. These vouchers can be used at all businesses where CDC vouchers are accepted. Please be mindful when you claim your May 2025 CDC vouchers online. Do not respond to requests asking for your banking credentials, OTP or password. Do not transfer any money or install apps from any websites. None of these are required to claim your CDC vouchers. If you suspect a scam, call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799. Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge: World's thinnest flagship phone slips into Singapore The post CDC Vouchers 2025 just released appeared first on
New Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Affin extends RM500mil loan for MV6 to buy Cold Storage Singapore
KUALA LUMPUR: Affin Group has announced a landmark RM500 million financing agreement with Macrovalue Six Sdn Bhd (MV6), marking a pivotal move in regional commerce between Malaysia and Singapore. This fully finances MV6's acquisition of a 100 per cent stake in Cold Storage Singapore (1983) Pte Ltd from DFI Retail Group Management Ltd. Affin Group president and group chief executive officer Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah said the deal is a transformative venture and strengthening Malaysia's leadership in Asean commerce. "Affin is proud to support Macrovalue in this historic entry into Singapore and this is not just a financing deal. "It is about enabling regional growth and creating a bridge for capital, talent, and resources between Malaysia and Singapore," he said during the ceremony. He added that the acquisition of 89 retail outlets in Singapore, comprising 48 Cold Storage stores and 41 Giant outlets followed the successful turnaround of GCH Retail (Malaysia), including Giant Malaysia. With Malaysian strong infrastructure and a localised strategy, MV6 aims to deliver greater affordability and variety to Singaporean consumers while strengthening Cold Storage's position as a premium retail brand. MV6 executive chairman Datuk Andrew Lim said it has plans for further expansion of store openings. "Our appetite to expand is very great. As long as the stores are profitable, we will open more," he said. MV6 aims to further cement its regional retail leadership by opening six new Cold Storage outlets in Singapore and 12 new Giant stores in Malaysia this year. Despite global economic concerns, Lim said the demand for food and groceries remains strong with minimal reliance on United States imports. As part of its growth trajectory, MV6 expects a 10 per cent increase in revenue in Malaysia and Singapore. The group aims to raise its total turnover to RM5.6 billion, with a longer-term target of RM7 billion as expansion and integration efforts mature.
Sassy Mama
21-04-2025
- Business
- Sassy Mama
You Can Now Easily Get High-Quality & Nutritious Ingredients From New Zealand Right Here In SG
Get ready to 'Discover A Taste of New Zealand' because Cold Storage and CS Fresh are bringing the best of Kiwi goodness to Singapore with premium food, live performances and more. As parents, making sure our kids are fed is one thing, but making sure they eat a nutritious, well-balanced meal is another. If you're searching for something you can feel good about feeding your family, you're in luck, because the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise is partnering up with Cold Storage for a campaign where you can experience premium New Zealand products right here in Singapore! New Zealand Premium Food and Beverage So, what makes New Zealand produce so special? New Zealand is known for its ethical farming practices that prioritise quality, safety, and sustainability, making sure that every bite is as good as nature intended. These ethical farming practices go hand in hand with New Zealand's natural advantages such as clean air, lush pastures, fertile soils, and crystal-clear waters – all of which create the perfect conditions for nutritious, delicious food. It's no wonder New Zealand produce consistently wins international awards! From free-range poultry, grass-fed beef and lamb to GMO-free fruits, natural manuka honey, premium dairy and indulgent snacks, New Zealand offers food that's healthier, fresher, and ethically sourced, and are guaranteed to impress the pickiest little eaters in the family! 'Discover A Taste of New Zealand' in Singapore If you're keen to stock up your pantry with premium New Zealand products, head down to Cold Storage and CS Fresh stores islandwide to experience the best of New Zealand firsthand and learn more about where your food comes from! The three-week campaign (17 April to 7 May 2025) will run across 35 outlets, featuring well-loved New Zealand brands such as Anchor, Cookie Time, Meadow Fresh, Mother Earth, Otis, Rockit Apple, Tegel, Whittaker's, Zespri, Zeagold and more. That's not all, you can also shop from other well-loved New Zealand brands such as Comvita, Nice & Natural, Fourflax and K9 Natural, at Comvita x HoneyWorld stores, Lazada, Ace Asia Pet Care, and Kohepets respectively. The highly anticipated campaign kicked off with a launch event at Cold Storage Great World City last week, featuring special live cultural performances including a Kapa Haka and Waiata showcase by students from the Australian International School. If you missed the performances, not to worry—mark your calendars and head down to Cold Storage and CS Fresh to discover what makes New Zealand food so special! Made with Care: New Zealand food is safe, tasty, of premium quality, nutritious and ethical. 'Discover A Taste of New Zealand' fair, Cold Storage and CS Fresh stores islandwide,
Associated Press
17-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Discover a Taste of New Zealand from 17 April - 7 May 2025 at Cold Storage
Safe, Tasty, Premium, Nutritious, and Ethical — Experience New Zealand's Treasured Flavours at Cold Storage & CS Fresh SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 17 April 2025 – From 17 April to 7 May, Singapore's food lovers can journey through New Zealand's magnificent landscapes featuring a wide range of safe, tasty, nutritious, ethical and premium quality food and beverage products through the 'Discover a Taste of New Zealand' campaign. The 3-week promotion will take place across Cold Storage and CS Fresh's 45 outlets, bringing the best of New Zealand's food to Singapore shoppers. New Zealand's Premium Products Are At Cold Storage from 17 April - 7 May 2025 Some of the participating brands for this campaigns are: Anchor, Cookie Time, Meadow Fresh, Mother Earth, Otis, Rockit Apple, Tegel, Whittaker's, Zespri, Zeagold available in Cold Storage and CS Fresh. Beyond Cold Storage & CS Fresh, consumers can also explore products from Comvita (available in all Comvita x HoneyWorld stores), Nice & Natural (available on Lazada ), Fourflax (available at Ace Asia Pet Care website ) and K9 Natural (available at Kohepets ). The campaign was officially launched at Cold Storage Great World City, with a special Kapa Haka and waiata performance by students from the Australian International School. The powerful cultural showcase marked the opening of the campaign. At the launch event, Maggie Christie, New Zealand's Trade Commissioner to Singapore, noted that: 'This year marks 60 years of diplomatic ties between New Zealand and Singapore—a milestone that speaks to the strength of our friendship, especially in trade and innovation. These products demonstrate our Māori value of Kaitiakitanga — caring for people, place, and planet, not just for now but for generations to come. Sustainability is at the heart, but they are also premium and delicious!' The Secret Behind New Zealand's Premium Food & Beverage What makes New Zealand's premium food particularly special for Singaporeans is how it transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences. The butter that elevates morning toast, the Mānuka Honey collected from remote wilderness that boosts immunity, and the beautifully roasted meats for family dinner – these everyday luxuries showcase New Zealand's commitment to bringing nature's best to table. As a world leader in premium food exports, New Zealand supplies 80% of its food to over 140 countries, with food and beverage products making up NZ$844 million of its total exports to Singapore in the year ending June 2024. Personal Taste Journey Begins The 'Discover A Taste of New Zealand' fair invites Singaporeans to experience this premium food culture first-hand. Sample the differences that have earned global recognition and bring home a piece of New Zealand's natural bounty to transform your own kitchen into a place where everyday meals become memorable occasions. For a complete guide to this unique culinary event, including special promotions, visit or your nearest Cold Storage & CS Fresh location. Hashtag: #NZMadeWithCare #NewZealand #MadeWithCare The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Made with Care The Made with Care initiative showcases New Zealand's exceptional food and beverage sector—a testament to the country's commitment to producing premium- quality products that respect both people and the planet. Led by New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE), this campaign connects discerning consumers worldwide with New Zealand's finest producers. In line with this global campaign, NZTE aims to expand the brand value of New Zealand products at a time when exporters are not able to be in-market. Since October 2020, a number of campaigns have been launched in major export markets. In Singapore, its partnership with Cold Storage & CS Fresh in the 'Discover A Taste of New Zealand' fair serves as an opportunity for consumers to learn more about the quality of New Zealand products. Facebook: About New Zealand Trade and Enterprise Te Taurapa Tūhono | New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is the New Zealand government's international business development agency. Our purpose is to grow companies internationally – bigger, better, faster – for the good of New Zealand. NZTE uses its extensive knowledge and global networks to help exporters of all sizes make better decisions and connect to the right partners and investors. We connect international businesses and investors with high-value growth opportunities in New Zealand.
