Inside 2nd Street Singapore: The Man Behind The Move Speaks
No gatekeeping: 2nd Street Singapore’s Tsutomu Nakamura on why the cult Japanese thrift chain had to land in the +65.
Cult Japanese thrift chain 2nd Street is making its Singapore debut on April 29, setting up shop at 313@somerset. With over 23,000 pre-loved pieces flown in from Japan – including vintage Louis Vuitton, Comme des Garcons gems, and $5 steals – this is secondhand shopping on a scale Singapore’s never seen.
We caught up with 2nd Street Singapore’s managing director Tsutomu Nakamura ahead of the drop to talk all things resale, why Gen Z are rewriting the rules of fashion, and how Singapore became a no-brainer for the brand’s next big move.
Why now, and why Singapore?
"We’ve always believed resale fashion isn’t just a trend, but a long-term lifestyle shift. Singapore stood out for its vibrant global culture, growing interest in sustainability, and openness to new retail experiences.
It wasn’t one single moment, but the right combination of factors – market maturity, a strong appetite for curated second-hand fashion, and Singapore’s role as a key gateway in Asia."
What makes 2nd Street different from the average thrift or vintage store?
"2nd Street is the world’s largest second-hand chain, with a system that balances trend-driven pricing and authenticity. Our buying and selling processes are standardised across stores, and we offer both online and in-person services – something that sets us apart from peer-to-peer platforms."
Are those Marni bags we see?
Gen Z loves a good origin story – what’s 2nd Street's?
"We started as a video rental shop in 1986, entering the second-hand business in 1996. Our current 2nd Street concept launched in 2008, and since then, we’ve doubled in size. Today, under GEO Holdings, we operate with a sales scale of over $4 billion and are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange."
What’s the most unexpected piece in-store?
"Even for our team, there’s an element of surprise in what arrives! At 2nd Street, we work within a supply and demand model, meaning we request general categories based on local preferences, such as proportions between men’s and women’s wear, and product types like dresses, pants, T-shirts, bags, and accessories.
However, the specific pieces selected are curated by our teams in Japan and only revealed to us once they arrive. So just like our customers, we experience that same thrill of discovery. That's the true spirit of thrifting; it's not just shopping, it’s finding something you didn’t expect. We invite everyone to come down and experience the surprise with us!"
Will the curation be tailored to Singapore, or mirror your Japan stores?
"Initially, all stock will be imported from Japan. But long-term, we aim for local production for local consumption. We’ll adapt our product mix to match what shoppers here actually want, rather than assuming demand based on preconceptions."
A Gucci watch is among the many treasures you can expect to find at 2nd Street Singapore.
How often will you refresh inventory?
"Very frequently. Every item is one of a kind, so our turnover is fast and new stock arrives almost daily. It’s a real treasure hunt – no two visits are the same."
Will Singapore customers be able to sell their clothes too?
"Yes. You can bring in your pre-loved items with no appointment needed. After an in-store evaluation, qualifying pieces may be resold, recycled, or upcycled – supporting a sustainable, high-quality circular fashion system."
Are more stores or an online platform in the pipeline?
"Singapore has potential for over 30 stores based on population density alone. We’re also eyeing growth in the Southeast Asia region, with expansion already planned for Singapore and Hong Kong this year. An online platform isn’t planned for Singapore at the moment, but we're closely studying the local market."