For years, Singaporeans have associated Daiso with inexpensive household products that cost just S$2 across the board. So when the Japanese department store announced that it would be charging GST from 1 May, many were shook.
While we might have expected the price hike to entail an added 7%, it looks like things are about to get a little complicated.
More recently, signages have been put up at Daiso outlets, introducing customers to a new pricing system that will take effect from Sunday (1 May).
Image by MS News
The pricing system is divided into 15 tiers, with prices ranging between S$2.14 and S$25.47.
On Monday (25 Apr), DAISO Singapore shared the tiered pricing system on its social media pages.
Source: DAISO Singapore
The table shows 15 categories of prices, each associated with a price tag in yen — they’re further divided into denominations of 100.
The cheapest product falls under the hot pink category, which costs S$2.14 with GST.
The most expensive products are coloured dark peach orange, which will set customers back a whopping S$23.33 and S$25.47. The new prices will take effect from Sunday (1 May).
Daiso also took the opportunity to thank customers for their understanding and support.
The colourful table was seen as early as last Wednesday (20 Apr). Netizens in the Daiso Singapore Facebook group also spotted some products with separate price tags.
These ceramics cups, which cost just S$2 at the time of writing, will double in price in a few days.
Source: Facebook
This sturdy-looking baking tray will also cost S$4.07 on 1 May.
Source: Facebook
In light of the imminent price hike, some kiasu shoppers advised others to buy what they can now while the products are still at their OG prices.
Source: Facebook
Visiting the Daiso outlets at Eastpoint Mall and Changi City Point, MS News found that while most products were still at their usual prices, a few sported the new S$4.07 price tag. Here’s what else we found that costs more than S$2.
Take these Lemon and Olive photo frames, for example.
Image by MS News
A selection of plates that come in different designs.
Image by MS News
An assortment of glasses.
Image by MS News
And some giant cat pillows.
Image by MS News
We tried looking for items that are expected to cost S$25.47 once it’s 1 May, but the salesperson informed us that they were not available yet.
Even though long-time shoppers of Daiso will understandably feel disappointed by the price hike, it is perhaps inevitable given the inflationary environment we’re living in. One thing’s for sure — these new prices will take some time to get used to.
Nonetheless, we hope Daiso can continue to keep prices relatively affordable while retaining its quality.
Know someone who’s an avid Daiso shopper? Tag them in the comments, so they know about the new pricing system.
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image by MS News.
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