10 Year Celebration: Singapore Trading Post
As we celebrate a decade of the Singapore Trading Post, we reflect on the journey that began with a shared passion for Singapore's historical charm.
Founded by Josephine Harrison and Rob Pendergrast in 2009, the Singapore Trading Post has grown from a small warehouse to a beloved purveyor of unique and stylish homeware and furniture.Join us as we look back on ten years of bringing treasures from traditional Singapore trading routes to discerning lifestyle seekers.
How It All Started
The story of the Singapore Trading Post began in 2009 when Jo and Rob were colleagues at Expat Auctions, a furniture auction house. Their mutual love for the magic and romanticism of old Singapore set the stage for what would become the essence of their business.
Inspired by the black and white houses, palm trees, balmy evenings, and the literature and jazz music of that era, they envisioned a shop that would reflect this nostalgic theme.
What's In A Name
Choosing the name for their venture was a crucial step. Looking into Singapore’s rich history, the influence of the East India Trading Company was undeniable. Thus, the name Singapore Trading Post was born, embodying the historical essence they aimed to capture.
The logo, featuring an iconic palm tree blowing in the wind, symbolized the tropical charm and timeless elegance that their products would come to represent.
How To Stay True To The Brand
Singapore Trading Post
Jo and Rob established strict guidelines for sourcing their treasures:
- Products must be sourced directly from manufacturers.
- They must personally meet the manufacturers and inspect their facilities.
- Factories must not employ child labor.
- Companies must adhere to health and safety regulations.
These principles ensured that every piece in their collection not only reflected quality and authenticity but also ethical practices.
Let's Look Back Over the Years
Take a walk down memory lane with us as we look back at our journey.
2011: The First Year
In 2011, Jo and Rob began trading out of the auction warehouse on Pasir Panjang. This initial phase laid the foundation for their business, allowing them to connect with customers who shared their appreciation for unique, historically inspired homeware.
2012: The First Shop
A year later, in 2012, they opened their first permanent shop at the Tan Boon Liat Building. This milestone also marked the introduction of the first Singapore Trading Post Ice Buckets, which quickly became an iconic gift for special occasions and farewells.
2013: Going Online
By 2013, Singapore Trading Post had established a robust online presence, a visionary move that set them apart from many other small businesses in Singapore. This digital expansion proved invaluable during health shutdowns, allowing customers to continue enhancing their decor from the comfort of their homes.
2022: A Decade of Dedication
Fast forward to 2022, Jo and Rob continue to thrive on their passion for sharing treasures with both new and loyal customers. Their relationships with manufacturers, some spanning over a decade, remain strong.
Each year, they endeavor to introduce new, unique, and creative products that reflect the bygone days of Singapore.
2023: New Collections and Collaborations
In 2023, Singapore Trading Post unveiled a new Dragon and Phoenix accessories range developed with artist Thain Lin, alongside a series of glass and metal ice buckets and a new collection of plantation-style Indonesian furniture.
This collection perfectly captured the black and white house aesthetic, underscoring the importance of collaborating with local artists to maintain the cultural richness of their offerings.
As we celebrate ten years of Singapore Trading Post, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers whose support has been instrumental in our journey. We remain committed to bringing unique and stylish furniture and accessories to Singapore, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and timeless elegance that inspired our founding.
We invite you to visit us, explore our collections, and become part of our story as we continue to share the treasures of traditional Singapore trading routes with the world.
Thank you for being a part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of style, history, and unique treasures!
