WITH tourism arrivals still down and the H1N1 flu arriving on Singapore's shores, retailers are depending more than ever on domestic spending at this year's Great Singapore Sale.

To entice consumers here to open their wallets, organisers for this year's shopping season are offering bigger giveaways and more joint promotions.

MasterCard, for instance, is giving away a total of $120,000 in shopping vouchers during the sale period, beginning today and running to the end of July.

Luxury labels, which usually shy away from taking part in the annual blowout sale for the masses, are jumping on the bandwagon this year.

The Club 21 bazaar sale, much anticipated by fashion fans, launches today and ends on Sunday, with brands like Comme des Garcons and Balenciaga at 80 per cent off.

Restaurants, attractions and hotels are also hoping to cash in with coinciding promotions.

To appeal to Singaporeans' love of food, the Restaurant Association of Singapore is holding the first Great Singapore Feast.

Participating eateries, such as seafood restaurant Jumbo and the Tung Lok Group of restaurants, will offer signature dishes at greatly discounted rates.

About 27 hotels, from boutique ones like The Scarlet in Tanjong Pagar, to the Shangri-La, are also looking to lure locals with special discounted weekend deals.

The Web is also offering promotions. Consumers can download a Great Singapore Pass from www.singapore-attractions.com, which gives them cheaper admission to tourist attractions like the Zoo and the Singapore Flyer.

Read the full story in The Straits Times today.

twong@sph.com.sg

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