FairPrice Group (FPG), Singapore’s largest retailer, has announced a strategic partnership with Ant International, a global digital payment and financial technology provider. This collaboration aims to expand international payment acceptance across FPG outlets and launch a new Cheers Mini App on Alipay, specifically designed for Chinese tourists in Singapore.
Under the partnership, over 500 FPG outlets, including supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and local food courts, will now accept cross-border mobile payments from 18 Alipay+ international partners. Alipay+, Ant International’s global wallet gateway, connects 18 international e-wallets and bank apps from 12 countries and regions to merchants across Singapore, including those under FPG.
The new Cheers Mini App, available on Alipay, functions as a virtual concierge for Chinese tourists. It is designed to guide and support visitors from pre-arrival to pre-departure, helping them discover, navigate, and enjoy local offerings at more than 180 Cheers convenience stores across the island. Cheers, the convenience store arm of FPG, is the first convenience store in Singapore to launch a dedicated mini app on an Alipay+ partner platform.
Vipul Chawla, Group CEO of FairPrice Group, noted that Alipay’s existing presence in Singapore (Alipay SG) and its trusted status among Chinese consumers enable Cheers to deliver discovery, transactions, and rewards to tourists seamlessly. Chawla stated that FPG is committed to improving daily life for its customers and expressed excitement for this partnership with Alipay+ to redefine retail experiences for Chinese tourists.
This strategic initiative aligns with FPG’s vision to become a leading retailer in Asia by offering smart and seamless convenience, particularly for one of Singapore’s largest inbound tourist segments. Singapore welcomed over three million visitors from China in 2024, and the country ranks among the top 10 global destinations according to Alipay+ data for 2025.
Peng Yang, CEO of Ant International, highlighted the company’s pride in supporting FairPrice Group’s mission to enhance community well-being and prosperity by transforming tourism and consumer experiences. Yang added that Alipay+’s AI-powered digitization tools will help partners engage consumers in more imaginative and secure ways, anticipating long-term growth opportunities with partners like FairPrice Group.
The Cheers Mini App offers an end-to-end experience for Chinese travelers. Prior to arrival, the app provides recommendations and shopping list planning. Upon arrival, visitors can redeem an in-app voucher for a complimentary FairPrice Coconut Water (330ml) after completing simple tasks. During their stay, tourists receive location-based product recommendations and can participate in challenges to unlock deals. Pre-departure, a curated catalog of over 500 products, including popular snacks and souvenirs, is available with a wishlist function and store mapping for convenient gift purchases.
Cheers stores are strategically located at key tourist touchpoints, including Changi Airport, major hotel districts, and popular attractions. To further enhance the experience for Chinese visitors, staff at 30 selected Cheers stores have received basic Mandarin training. Additionally, 30 Cheers stores near major tourist spots have been stocked with travel essentials and dedicated souvenir shelves featuring local favorites like chili crab paste and durian candy.
