Transport Transforming Transit: Retail Boost Planned for HCMC Metro

[snoop1130]

File photo for reference only

 

Ho Chi Minh City's metro line may soon add shops and cafés, transforming transit into vibrant hubs. This move, proposed by the Department of Industry and Trade to HCMC Urban Railway No.1 (HURC1), aims to enhance convenience and draw more riders.

 

The nearly 20-kilometre Ben Thanh–Suoi Tien line, with its 14 stations, currently functions primarily as a transit link, lacking substantial retail or dining options. In response, Saigon Co.op suggested incorporating essential retail services at these metro stops.

 

Officials believe this initiative could increase revenue and make public transport more appealing, following successful models in Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, where metro stations also serve as shopping and leisure destinations.

 

With plans to expand Ho Chi Minh City's metro network to 355 kilometres by 2035, integrating retail and service hubs early on is seen as a strategic move to boost consumer spending and maximise urban infrastructure.

 

Saigon Co.op proposed a quick-service retail model tailored for metro passengers. The Department of Industry and Trade has advised the retailer to collaborate directly with HURC1 to seamlessly integrate this plan into existing metro operations.

 

Since its December 2024 launch, and offering free fares initially, the Ben Thanh–Suoi Tien line has already welcomed over 10 million passengers, averaging more than 52,300 daily trips, exceeding initial ridership expectations.

 

Transforming metro stations into vibrant community hubs could revolutionise commuting in Ho Chi Minh City, offering both convenience and enhanced urban lifestyle.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-30

 

 

[scorecard]

14 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

File photo for reference only

 

Ho Chi Minh City's metro line may soon add shops and cafés, transforming transit into vibrant hubs. This move, proposed by the Department of Industry and Trade to HCMC Urban Railway No.1 (HURC1), aims to enhance convenience and draw more riders.

 

The nearly 20-kilometre Ben Thanh–Suoi Tien line, with its 14 stations, currently functions primarily as a transit link, lacking substantial retail or dining options. In response, Saigon Co.op suggested incorporating essential retail services at these metro stops.

 

Officials believe this initiative could increase revenue and make public transport more appealing, following successful models in Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, where metro stations also serve as shopping and leisure destinations.

 

With plans to expand Ho Chi Minh City's metro network to 355 kilometres by 2035, integrating retail and service hubs early on is seen as a strategic move to boost consumer spending and maximise urban infrastructure.

 

Saigon Co.op proposed a quick-service retail model tailored for metro passengers. The Department of Industry and Trade has advised the retailer to collaborate directly with HURC1 to seamlessly integrate this plan into existing metro operations.

 

Since its December 2024 launch, and offering free fares initially, the Ben Thanh–Suoi Tien line has already welcomed over 10 million passengers, averaging more than 52,300 daily trips, exceeding initial ridership expectations.

 

Transforming metro stations into vibrant community hubs could revolutionise commuting in Ho Chi Minh City, offering both convenience and enhanced urban lifestyle.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-30

 

 

Perhaps the retail / dining options could include a 'tax' which is used to reduce ticket costs.