There’s an old saying: Hope for the best, and prepare for the worst.
For many today—parents, entrepreneurs, investors, and global professionals—it’s more than just a proverb. It’s a quiet strategy for living in uncertain times.
Singapore’s food & beverage industry reached approximately US $9.4 billion in sales during 2023, with forecasts projecting growth to US $11.6 billion by 2028. Despite its impressive scale, the sector faces stark challenges: over 3,000 F&B outlets closed in 2024, marking the highest annual closure rate in nearly two decades.
In this roundtable, Ray Tay and Ivan McAdam O’Connell our co-founders are joined by Yuto Nagai, Head of Operations, the Wine distribution and Co. to dissect the true mechanics of launching and scaling a profitable food business in Singapore. They explore the structural pressures of rising rents, labor shortages, regulatory demands, and supply chain volatility.
Grounded in real-world case studies and operational experience, the episode offers entrepreneurs a concrete framework—based on unit economics, scalable systems, and strategic foresight—for turning culinary passion into long-term profit.
1. Operational pitfalls are real—and expensive.
From post-COVID wage hikes to high rentals and licensing hurdles, the costs add up quickly. Avoid common mistakes like over-hiring or over-designing your outlet.
2. Scaling without systems = Trouble.
Don’t expand to mask losses. Refine backend processes, stabilize profitability, and ensure your team has bandwidth to manage growth before you consider new outlets.
3. Understand your break-even point before you invest.
VIVOS emphasizes the importance of testing your idea, modeling unit economics, and planning for sustainability—not just launch day excitement.
4. Exit strategy is not an afterthought.
The best time to plan your exit is before you need it. Keeping clean books, building a brand, and retaining key people will protect your valuation and make your business more attractive to buyers.
Let VIVOS help you make the leap from dreamer to doer—with clarity and confidence.
31 July, 2025
23 June, 2025
Entrepreneurs often struggle with high rental and labor costs, regulatory complexity, operational inefficiencies, and tough competition—with 50% failing within four years.
Look at foot traffic, target audience demographics, rent levels, and competition. Negotiating flexible tenancy terms is key, especially when licensing approvals are pending.
Start planning early—ideally, well before a crisis. Buyers value brand equity, consistent performance metrics, and defined roles. Selling can take 6–12 months, so preparation protects value.
Maintain clear records of:
High foot traffic helps, but so do customer demographics, competition density, rent levels, and tenancy terms. Analyze nearby businesses and match them to your concept.
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