Another Hotel 81!

Yes. It's another Hotel 81. They've been sprouting branches and seem to be going more upmarket. Attempting to shed the "2-hour transit romp" image eh? I believe they may be doing more marketing to budget tourists from neighbouring countries. Looking at the market, there is a lack of 1) quality budget accomodation and 2) a brand name assures people that they're getting a consistent quality. A visit to http://www.hotel81.com.sg/ will show how professional they are.

From the Geylang and Joo Chiat branches, they entered the city with the sprawling Hotel 81 Bencoolen and then Hotel 81 Bugis with open air sunbathing rooftop rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows. They also have a branch at Jalan Besar - another niche tourist area just next to Lavendar food centre.

Now it's Hotel 81 Rochor. Just opposite Sim Lim Square and near the gentrifying backpacker area Dunlop Street. Excellent location. Think they're really doing well. Would be better with increased marketing to nearby countries but then again, a good product will spread by word of mouth.

Fragrance hotel in contrast seems to be lagging a little but still doing ok. Their branch near Selegie is a good location near Tekka/Little India but lacks prominence. they do have a backpacker hostel at Dunlop Street though. It looks quite cool with plasma TV and quite nice dorms. Take a look at http://www.fragrancehotel.com.sg/

Fresh fruit vending machine at P.S. bazaar

Creative idea... putting cut fruits into sealed bubble tea cups. Think it'll work in factory areas where there are few canteens. It's abit expensive at $2 a cup though.

Akira and Audiohouse

Akira seems to have gone slightly upmarket in its advertising. Saw this bustop ad at Orchard Road and was surprised Akira actually created a distinctive product. So far, it has produced generic products like kettles, vacuums, cd players without product specialisation.

In terms of brand meaning, it seems like it is just a name for cheaper electronics just like Enzer. Well... if it continues this way, it may break the mould. Perhaps focus abit more on 1 or 2 core competencies and distinguish itself in those areas.

Audiohouse has just started sending direct mailers too. In fact, in the past few months, I've seen more and more direct mailers following in the footsteps of Ikea. And i believe people do read these mailers from Courts etc. Pretty good medium actually... especially when there's alot of information to convey.