The lifecycle of a business is much like that of a human being. It starts with a birth – the spark of an idea, the opening of a new shop. It grows, matures, and, hopefully, prospers. But just as with all living things, businesses, too, have an end. This end often comes in the form of a closure, a final farewell to the customers who have supported it throughout its existence. Let’s take a look at some of the Singapore eateries that we recently had to say goodbye to.
The unforgettable taste of goodbye
In recent years, we’ve had to say goodbye to many beloved eateries in Singapore. The Working Title Burger Bar, a popular haunt in Haji Lane, is an example. But it’s not alone. Other favourites like Cold Stone Creamery, Mak’s Noodle, and Bakerzin have also closed their doors. Each closure is a reminder of the transient nature of the F&B industry.
Cold Stone Creamery
Remember the joy of watching the staff at Cold Stone Creamery mix your favourite toppings into your ice cream on a frozen granite stone? The American ice cream parlour chain, after serving Singaporeans for 11 years, decided to say goodbye in 2020.
Mak’s Noodle
The Hong Kong wonton noodle chain, Mak’s Noodle, was another eatery that left a void in our food scene. Despite the initial hype and rapid expansion, the chain couldn’t sustain its operations and had to close its flagship outlet at The Centrepoint.
Bakerzin
Bakerzin, a homegrown cafe chain that had been around for 22 years, also bid us farewell. The cafe, known for its delectable cakes and pastries, went into liquidation in October 2020, a casualty of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The role of community
The closures of these eateries are not just about the end of a business. They represent the end of a community that was built around these establishments. These were places where friends gathered for a meal, where families celebrated special occasions, and where relationships were nurtured over shared plates of food.
The harsh reality of the F&B industry
The closures also highlight the harsh realities of the F&B industry. High rental costs, stiff competition, and changing consumer tastes are just some of the challenges that these businesses face. The Covid-19 pandemic has only exacerbated these issues, forcing many eateries to shut their doors.
The silver lining
Yet, in the face of these closures, there’s a silver lining. The end of one business often paves the way for the birth of another. New eateries spring up, bringing with them fresh concepts and exciting flavours. They breathe new life into the F&B scene, keeping it vibrant and dynamic.
The role of property and real estate
The property and real estate industry plays a crucial role in this lifecycle. The location of an eatery can greatly influence its success. Prime locations with high foot traffic can help attract customers, while unique, well-designed spaces can enhance the dining experience.
The Art of Saying Goodbye
Saying goodbye is never easy. But it’s a part of life and a part of the business. Each closure marks the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new one. As we bid farewell to these beloved Singapore eateries, let’s also look forward to the new ones that will take their place. After all, the only constant in life, and the F&B industry, is change.
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