1. Introduction and Patrick’s Journey
00:00:02 – 00:01:02
Patrick shares an overview of his role as CEO of K Group and how the business expanded into eight brands, including catering, CH Frozen, pastry manufacturing, and urban farming.
2. Leadership and Industry Advocacy
00:01:02 – 00:02:12
Patrick discusses his role as president of the Association of Catering Professionals Singapore (ACAPS), highlighting the challenges and rewards of serving the industry while balancing his business responsibilities.
3. Core Focus on Catering and OEM
00:02:12 – 00:03:53
Patrick explains why the OEM and central kitchen sectors are the core of his business. He describes transitioning out of operational duties to focus on development and strategic growth.
4. Staying Relevant in Business
00:03:53 – 00:04:51
Patrick shares his approach to staying youthful and relevant by engaging with younger generations and embracing emerging trends, particularly on platforms like TikTok.
5. TikTok and Personal Branding
00:04:51 – 00:06:12
Patrick reflects on his TikTok journey, detailing how he uses the platform to share insights on entrepreneurship and F&B, building an audience across three channels.
6. Urban Farming and Lessons Learned
00:06:12 – 00:07:39
Patrick recounts his experience with urban farming during the pandemic, highlighting the valuable lessons and connections he gained, even though the project didn’t succeed financially.
7. Synergy Across Business Lines
00:07:39 – 00:11:48
Patrick explains how the Kitchen Haus brands complement one another, serving diverse markets from mass catering to institutional clients. He also dives into the role of OEM manufacturing in scaling F&B operations.
8. Addressing Recipe Secrecy and OEM Concerns
00:11:48 – 00:15:16
Patrick addresses common concerns about recipe confidentiality in OEM partnerships, emphasizing the importance of trust, NDAs, and the brand’s value over the recipe itself.
9. Scaling Challenges: Grooming Leaders
00:15:16 – 00:16:17
The biggest challenge, Patrick reveals, is finding and grooming the right talent. He shares his focus on building a strong middle management team to ensure long-term success.
10. Data-Driven Management
00:16:17 – 00:17:20
As an engineer by training, Patrick describes how he uses KPIs, graphs, and metrics to measure performance, covering sales targets, retention rates, and profitability.
11. Technology and Innovation in F&B
00:17:20 – 00:19:53
Patrick outlines his company’s technological journey, including ERP systems and automation, supported by Enterprise Singapore grants. He highlights how technology has improved efficiency and consistency.
12. Preparing for the Future of F&B
00:19:53 – 00:22:26
Patrick reflects on the evolving F&B landscape, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, sustainability, and informed decision-making in the face of uncertainties like pandemics.
13. Exploring Opportunities Beyond Core Business
00:22:26 – 00:23:21
While Patrick’s focus remains on B2B, he shares his intrigue with B2C retail and the value of partnerships in exploring new ventures.
14. Quickfire Insights
00:23:21 – 00:25:23
Patrick answers quickfire questions about his mentors, early advice, and favorite dishes. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to start early, seek mentors, and network extensively.
15. Final Advice and Connecting with Patrick
00:25:23 – 00:26:40
Patrick offers his final advice: resilience, mentorship, and networking are keys to succeeding in the challenging F&B industry. He also invites listeners to connect for a coffee session to learn more.