The Hainan Story, a local F&B chain, recently closed two outlets at The Hillion Mall and Tampines Mall, leading to speculation about its future.

According to a post by I Love Tampines on Facebook on Tuesday (Feb 3), The Hainan Story Coffee House at Tampines Mall has shut down, with the nearest branches now located at Pasir Ris Mall and Jewel Changi Airport.

Simultaneously, news of the closure of The Hainan Story and The Hainan Story Bakery at Hillion Mall was circulated on Singapore Atrium Sale's social media platforms, accompanied by a photo of a notice from mall owner Sim Lian Group stating that the unit was repossessed on Feb 2.

The abrupt closures have raised concerns among netizens about the chain's financial stability, especially after the recent closure of the Northpoint City branch.

At its peak in 2024, The Hainan Story boasted 13 outlets across Singapore, including locations such as Hotel Boss, Jewel Changi Airport, Jurong Point, Nex, and Pasir Ris Mall. The chain offered various dining concepts ranging from restaurants to fast-casual coffee houses, bakeries, and takeaway kiosks.

Established in 2020, the company gained renown for its contemporary take on traditional Hainanese-Singaporean cuisine.

Some of its popular dishes include Signature Hainanese Curry Fish Head, Hainanese Pork Trotter with Pickled Mustard Green, as well as Gula Melaka Kaya and Cold Butter Toast.

Undergoing Restructuring

Responding to inquiries from AsiaOne, The Hainan Story stated on Thursday that the closure of these outlets is part of a "comprehensive strategic business review and restructuring plan" aimed at fortifying the brand's long-term viability.

The company elaborated, "This deliberate decision enables the company to streamline its operations, maintain a more efficient presence, and improve overall operational efficiency across its remaining outlets, while exercising prudent cost management in a challenging business environment."

The restructuring initiative is intended to help The Hainan Story optimize its workforce deployment, supply chain management, and operating expenses.

The brand reassured that its other outlets are still operational.

The Hainan Story expressed gratitude for the ongoing trust and support from customers and business partners during this transitional phase.

"As a locally grown brand, we sincerely value the community's understanding and encouragement as we embark on this crucial journey to fortify our core operations, implement responsible cost controls, and establish a more resilient foundation for the future," said The Hainan Story.

On the other hand, Hillion Mall informed AsiaOne that the unit repossession was due to non-compliance with the lease terms. As the issue is confidential, they refrained from providing further comments.

melissateo@asiaone.com