[CM] [TS] [C6] Assessing Risks and Threats

Crisis Management Blueprint for TANGS Singapore: Safeguarding a Retail Icon

Chapter 5: 

What Are the Types of Threats to Business Continuity Management for TANGS Singapore?

From the book: Crisis Management Blueprint for TANGS Singapore: Safeguarding a Retail Icon

TANGS Singapore, a landmark department store on Orchard Road, is more than just a retail space — it is an institution.

With a legacy built on decades of excellence, TANGS is synonymous with innovation, tradition, and Singapore’s evolving retail culture.

However, in a dynamic and risk-prone environment, even the most established brands are not immune to disruptions.

In alignment with ISO 22301:2019, the international standard for Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS), and Singapore’s BCM regulatory expectations, this chapter explores the types of threats that could significantly impact the operations, reputation, and resilience of TANGS Singapore.

Operational Disruptions

As a high-traffic, multi-level department store, TANGS is vulnerable to operational disruptions such as:

• Power outages: Disruption of lighting, escalators, POS systems, and HVAC can paralyze operations.
• IT system failures: Inability to process sales, update inventories, or access customer loyalty databases.
• Facility-related incidents, such as lift breakdowns, burst water pipes, or structural issues, can compromise the safety of both customers and staff.

BCM Impact: These scenarios underscore the importance of robust facilities management, real-time monitoring, and well-rehearsed incident response plans.

Cybersecurity and Data Breach Threats

As TANGS expands its digital presence through Tangs.com, the threat landscape broadens:

• Website defacement or outages
• Payment system breaches
• Theft of customer data and loyalty program exploitation
• Ransomware attacks

BCM Impact: A data breach could result in reputational damage, regulatory fines under Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), and customer distrust. ISO 22301 requires the identification and protection of critical information assets as part of business continuity planning.

Supply Chain Disruptions

TANGS relies on local and international suppliers to maintain a diverse range of stock and high quality. A diverse range of stock and high-quality include:

• Shipping delays or customs issues
• Supplier bankruptcy or compliance failure
• Political unrest or trade restrictions impacting international vendors

BCM Impact: The retail floor’s vibrancy and brand partnerships depend on continuity in supply. Contingency planning must include supplier risk assessment and the development of alternative sourcing strategies.

Pandemics and Public Health Emergencies

COVID-19 highlighted how global health emergencies can cripple the retail industry:

• Footfall collapse during lockdowns
• In-store transmission risks
• Staff quarantines and workforce shortages

BCM Impact: Health and safety measures, business recovery planning, and shift to omni-channel retail must be embedded in future crisis strategies.

Terrorism and Civil Unrest

Located in the heart of Orchard Road, TANGS may be exposed to:

• Security threats or terror incidents
• Civil unrest, protests, or strikes
• Suspicious packages or evacuation scenarios

BCM Impact: The need for coordinated emergency response, stakeholder communication, and crowd management is essential to protect lives and property.

Fire and Environmental Hazards

Retail establishments face significant risks from:

• Electrical fires
• Smoke and water damage from suppression systems
• Hazmat exposure in storage areas

BCM Impact: Fire safety audits, emergency drills, and building resilience are core Business Continuity Management (BCM) practices outlined in ISO 22301.

Reputational Crises

Public perception can be damaged due to:

• Poor customer service incidents are going viral
• Allegations of unfair labour practices or ethical violations
• Negative publicity involving brands sold at TANGS

BCM Impact: Reputational risks must be mitigated with a crisis communication plan that includes stakeholder engagement, media strategy, and rapid public response.

Regulatory and Compliance Failures

TANGS must comply with:

• Singapore’s BCM policies under MAS and MOM (for employment matters)
• Health, safety, and consumer protection laws
• International standards (e.g., ISO 22301, ISO 27001)

BCM Impact: Non-compliance could lead to enforced closures, penalties, and damage to stakeholder trust. A compliant BCMS ensures proactive risk identification and mitigation.

Summing Up ... 

In the context of ISO 22301, threats to business continuity must be identified, assessed, and addressed through a comprehensive and dynamic Business Continuity Management System (BCMS). This includes:

• Business impact analysis (BIA)
• Risk assessment tailored to the retail sector
• Crisis and incident response protocols
• Recovery and continuity strategies for key services
• Ongoing testing, training, and continuous improvement

TANGS Singapore’s ability to protect its heritage while embracing modern retail demands depends on its resilience to threats.

A well-structured business continuity framework is not merely a compliance requirement — it is a strategic imperative to safeguard a retail icon.