Orchard Road is comparable to London's Oxford Street, which is one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe ("Make Orchard an alluring brand"; last Sunday).

But Orchard Road can be livelier if the entertainment factor were raised to complement the hotels and shopping centres that dominate the area.

For instance, there could be more outdoor fashion shows, and even music, with international bands and artists brought in to provide dazzle, especially at store openings. Perhaps there could be a street festival with a Singapore flavour.

These events could be allowed to spill out onto the pavement to make the shopping experience more immersive.

There should be more outdoor cafes and restaurants. Perhaps there could be watering holes where we could try wines and beers from various parts of the world.

Works of art could be brought in and displayed at outdoor galleries.

Some of the more exciting brands could also showcase their wares out in the open to whet the appetite of more people. We have to excite everyone, from jet-setters to those looking for mid-range and lower-end purchases.

There should be something for everyone at Orchard Road. It should be a place where one can find all that one requires conveniently and comfortably, while taking in the sights and sounds, and being part of the bustle.

This would tempt people to linger, which would help retailers in these challenging times.

Manoraj Rajathurai