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SINGAPORE : Food service management company Kopitiam Group is branching into the fast food business. It is bringing the franchise of American fast food chain Wendy's back to Singapore after more than 10 years.
Kopitiam plans to open another 35 Wendy's branches in Singapore over the next decade.
The queues formed quickly as the first Wendy's outlet opened at Lau Pa Sat in the Central Business District on Monday. And if the crowd is anything to go buy, the American fast food chain appears to have a recipe for success.
Wendy's is known for its signature square burger patties, and is part of a group that makes up the third largest fast food chain in the US.
It has been brought back to Singapore by the Kopitiam Group, which is targeting to launch more outlets in both the city and suburban areas.
Alden Tan, managing director, Kopitiam Investment, said: "If possible, also we want to run 24 hours; if the site allows us to (operate) 24 hours, we will do it.
"Deliveries are in our plans, but right now we only have one outlet...when we have more outlets in future, that is one of the options that we will consider."
Kopitiam said it believes that prospects for the Wendy's franchise will be good, given the popularity of American fast food.
Mr Tan said: "We have been looking for new ventures, new business and when Wendy's International came to Singapore to scout for a new franchisee, we saw the opportunity."
Wendy's was first in Singapore in the 1980s, with outlets at places such as Far East Plaza and Parkway Parade. This latest venture will be supported by its Hong Kong headquarters, instead of the US previously.
Beyond Singapore, Wendy's is also looking at breaking into markets like China, Hong Kong and South Korea.
Wendy's opening in Singapore comes just days after the company announced it was pulling out of Japan after nearly 30 years. Its franchisee Zensho in Japan is reportedly planning to focus on its other businesses, such as its beef bowl chain.
Andrew Skehan, senior VP, Wendy's Arby's Group, said: "Our approach to the brand differed. We wanted something other than what they were willing to do. So we had to part ways and we'll do that if we have to.
"You hate to leave a market and we expect to be back in Japan very soon because we have a lot of very loyal customers there. I think it was just a matter of where their focus was and how much they were willing to commit to our brand versus maybe some of the other businesses they are in." - CNA/ms/vm
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