Since March last year, karaoke outlets and other entertainment venues were forced to close as part of Covid-19 safety measures.
They have ceased operations for over a year now, and without any income, businesses are starting to feel the pinch and many are already in the red.
Today, Karaoke Manekineko announced that it has closed all of its outlets in Singapore since May 5.
In its Facebook post, it thanked all customers for their past support and assured customers that “it’s not goodbye”. It is not clear if Karaoke Manekineko has plans to reopen in the future when the business conditions have improved.
According to its website, Manekineko is one of Japan’s largest karaoke chains with more than 500 outlets nationwide. One unique proposition of this KTV is that it offers a variety of free flow drinks and snacks at its self-service bar.
Its website also listed that it has eight outlets in Singapore, including Orchard Cineleisure, *SCAPE, Bugis+, Marina Square, Lucky Chinatown, SAFRA Punggol, SAFRA Jurong and Tampines 1.
Earlier this year, fellow karaoke chain Teo Heng KTV also announced that it will be temporarily exiting the industry after 30 years of operation.
It shared on its Instagram post that “Teo Heng Trading will still be in operation” and will continue persevering for now as they try to hold on to two of its community centre outlets.
Then earlier in March, Teo Heng KTV revealed that it will be reopening some outlets and has pivoted to offer “work, dine and chill” options. Their karaoke rooms have since been converted into a workspace area, which is available for rent at S$4 per hour.
Featured Image Credit: Koshidaka Singapore