Retailers Say Supply Chain Disruptions Affecting some World Cup Merchandise

Why It Matters

Merchandise shortages risk dampening fan engagement and revenue during the World Cup, while early‑planning retailers and agile small‑businesses can capture the heightened consumer spend.

Key Takeaways

• Supply chain hiccups delay World Cup jerseys in Singapore.
• Retailers began sourcing a year early for expanded 48‑team tournament.
• Some stores limit stock to popular teams, others face broader shortages.
• Fan demand extends beyond jerseys to retro apparel and collectibles.
• Small‑business pop‑up market expected to attract over 1,000 visitors.

Summary

As the FIFA World Cup approaches, Singapore retailers report supply‑chain disruptions hampering the arrival of official merchandise, especially jerseys from less‑prominent nations.

Retailers began planning almost a year ago to accommodate the expanded 48‑team format, but factory delays, shipping bottlenecks and customs holdups have forced some to curtail inventory to top‑selling teams while others experience broader shortages across dozens of countries.

Examples include limited stock of Argentina’s hot‑selling jersey, retro‑inspired South African tops, and debutant Uzbekistan kits. Collectibles such as sticker albums and the first FIFA World Cup patches for Argentina and Japan are also in high demand, while a July pop‑up market will feature 20 merchants and expects over 1,000 visitors.

The situation underscores the importance of early, precise forecasting for global events, highlights revenue risks for major chains, and opens a niche for small businesses capitalising on fan enthusiasm for unique apparel and memorabilia.

Original Description

As the FIFA World Cup draws near, at least one sports retailer says supply chain disruptions are affecting the delivery of certain merchandise to Singapore. Another says they started preparing to bring in stock almost a year ago. With the expanded 48 teams in this year's format, they add that sourcing from more federations worldwide is making logistics harder. The five-week tournament kicks off in 10 days. A special Matchday Football Market at *SCAPE in July will also feature over 20 merchants selling vintage shirts, collectibles, artwork and trading cards. Nikhil Khattar reports.