Thirty-five years. That’s a considerable chunk of time, wouldn’t you agree? Thirty-five years Tokyu Department Store graced the MBK Center here in Bangkok. A stalwart of Japanese retail, a familiar face in this bustling city. Now, sadly, those days are gone. Tokyu closed its doors in January 2021, marking the end of an era. It’s a story of changing times, of a retail landscape reshaped by competition and unforeseen circumstances. Tokyu first opened in Bangkok back in 1985, bringing a touch of Japanese elegance and quality to Thailand. It thrived for years, a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Imagine the MBK Center without it. It’s hard to picture, isn’t it? Tokyu wasn’t alone in its struggles. Several Japanese retailers found the increasingly competitive Bangkok market tough to navigate. The rise of new shopping malls added to the pressure. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic. The resulting drop in tourism dealt a final, devastating blow to Tokyu. The closure came as a surprise to many. Just weeks before the announcement, MBK management had indicated that Tokyu’s lease had been extended for another nine years. Renovations were planned. The future seemed secure. But the pandemic’s impact was too severe to withstand. Tokyu became the second Japanese department store to leave Thailand, following Isetan’s departure just a few months earlier. Takashimaya now stands as the sole remaining Japanese department store chain in Thailand. So, as you stand here in the MBK Center, remember Tokyu. Remember its 35-year presence, its contribution to Bangkok’s retail scene. It’s a reminder of how quickly things can change, how even the most established institutions can be vulnerable to the winds of change.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to