As closure looms for the famous bargain Xiangyang Fashion and Gift Market, retailers are frantically seeking new sites - and shoppers are enjoying sweet bargains.

The market closes at the end of June.

Some retailers have already decided on the new sites and some are still making plans.

The Shanghai No. 2 Foodstuff Shop at the intersection of Huaihai and Shaanxi roads, for instance, will move to the southwestern Xujiahui area.

The shop will reopen in NewRoad, a store on Huashan Road. It will be two or three times larger than the original.

"The new site is being decorated and will start operation about three months after the original site closes," said Wang Qiwei of the Xuhui District government.

Another time-honored dealer, Meixin Restaurant, will be moved to Tianyaoqiao Road near the Shanghai Stadium. It's famous for dim sum and Shanghai dishes.

Some vendors in Xiangyang market will consider moving to Qipu Road Market in Hongkou District or Yuyuan Garden area.

Other sites on southwestern Longhua Road, downtown Xizang Road and Pudong's Century Avenue are recommended by the government.

(Shanghai Daily June 23, 2006)