“For the past few years, I was determined to keep trying to create an F&B legacy. I’ve been drawing a monthly salary of S$2,000 for the past year, working hard and hoping that the business would succeed. But the manpower issues and rental were really a killer. I caught myself dragging my feet to work. That’s when I knew I had to really call it quits,” he explained.
Tan said his partner, an owner of a local bakery chain, incurred a “five-figure loss” from their ventures. Despite this, they parted ways amicably. “My partner handled it as a very ethical businessman. Before we began the partnership, he agreed that he would not blame me [if the business failed]. We really tried our best,” he shared.
Throughout Raymond Tan’s tumultuous journey in the F&B industry, his wife Vivian has been his unwavering pillar of support. She respected his decision to step away.
“She understands the struggles of being a hawker as she has seen firsthand the challenging business aspect as well as physical demands of the job,” he said, adding that she and their kids “miss eating the dishes we sold”.
Reflecting on his journey as a hawker, Tan said he has “no regrets” even though he admits he is “kind of tired of F&B”. “It’s been such an amazing learning journey – the joy of creating dishes, setting up the stalls, and the opportunity to meet so many nice customers along the way. It’s all been worth it!” he shared. “I am who I am because society has always been willing to give me a chance. The love and support from customers have sustained me until today, and I’m truly grateful.”