F&B Chain Keeps Workforce Intact and Enhances Staff Skills Amidst Challenging Times
Old Chang Kee, the popular fried food and beverage chain, successfully weathered the pandemic without retrenching any staff, largely due to the financial support provided by Singapore’s Jobs Support Scheme (JSS). As of March 2022, the company employed 441 retail staff, 101 factory workers, and 54 administrative employees, including 80 part-timers in retail.
With nearly 90 outlets located in train stations and shopping malls, the Catalist-listed company faced significant challenges during the pandemic. To manage costs, Old Chang Kee reduced overtime and asked staff, especially older employees, to clear block leave. Additionally, the company froze salary increments in 2021 but provided all 516 full-time employees with a flat monthly allowance for the year, partially funded by JSS payouts.
Despite the salary freeze, the company maintained its bonus system for employees in 2021. As of March 31, the company will receive its final JSS payout and is now in a stronger financial position, allowing it to move forward without the need for continued support. After this, Old Chang Kee reinstated salary increments and ceased the monthly Covid-19 allowances.
In addition to preserving jobs, Old Chang Kee took proactive steps to upskill its workforce during the pandemic. Employees participated in internal refresher courses on halal compliance, product quality, and digitalisation, including training on QR code payments and setting up e-commerce platforms, ensuring that the staff was well-prepared for the evolving market.
