Tec-Drome's Closure Announcement

In a heartfelt farewell, Woo Liah Meng, affectionately known as 'Games Uncle,' announced the closure of his beloved game shop, Tec-Drome Pte Ltd, located at Sim Lim Square. This store has been a staple in the gaming community since 1992, providing enthusiasts with video games, consoles, and electronic devices.

Emotional Goodbye to Customers

Liah Meng made the announcement through a Facebook post on October 10, revealing that the shop will officially close its doors in just 10 days. "Countdown 10 days before we move out from #05-78 Sim Lim Square," he wrote, eliciting an emotional response from customers and fans who frequented the store over the decades.

Transition to Online Sales

While the physical store will no longer be in operation, Liah Meng reassured his loyal clientele that he will continue to sell products online through Facebook and Lazada. Expressing his gratitude, he said, "Thank you all these years for your support and patronage, and more importantly, your understanding. If you have time, do drop by; I wish to personally thank all of you! See you!"

Community Support and Nostalgia

The gaming community quickly rallied to express their appreciation. Razer’s founder and CEO, Min-Liang Tan, even chimed in, reminiscing about his own experiences shopping at Tec-Drome. "Thanks for the great times! I remember coming to buy my games from you back in the day! Thank you for your support in the early days too!" he commented.

Challenges Faced by Tec-Drome

Speaking to AsiaOne, Liah Meng shared the challenges that led to this difficult decision. He mentioned that sales have significantly declined, particularly as the rise of e-commerce platforms like Lazada and Shopee have drastically impacted traditional retail, making it difficult for his store to compete. "Online stores have hit our retail business hard. They are our competitors in the virtual world," he stated candidly.

Future Plans and Optimism

In an effort to adapt to the changing market landscape, Liah Meng has transitioned to online sales, allowing access to a wider audience who may not have been able to visit his physical location. However, he acknowledged the hurdles that accompany this shift, such as advertising expenses, commission fees, and rising delivery costs that eat into his profits.

Legacy of Tec-Drome

Despite these challenges, Liah Meng remains optimistic about the future. He plans to partner with distributors to secure better pricing and bolster his online sales efforts. "All in all, the sales turnover has dropped for our retail business; it's really very low, and the profit margin too has declined, making it hard for us to cover our overheads," he explained.

As Tec-Drome Pte Ltd prepares to close its physical store, the legacy of 'Games Uncle' and his impact on the gaming community will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. For loyal customers eager to support him during this transition, Tec-Drome can still be accessed online, preserving the unique connection fostered over 32 years.