Brick-Mortar-Cloud Podcast
S1 Ep.12:
How to Build an F&B Empire: Proven Strategies and Insights from Patrick of Kitchen Haus

Founded by Patrick, a visionary second-generation entrepreneur, Kitchen Haus Group represents a seamless blend of tradition and innovation in the F&B industry. Inspired by his family’s legacy and a drive to innovate, Patrick expanded a single-brand catering business into a diversified F&B powerhouse, encompassing OEM manufacturing, urban farming, and kiosk concepts. On this episode of the Brick Mortar Cloud Podcast, brought to you by StaffAny and produced by Nick Chan, Patrick shares his journey, leadership insights, and strategies for scaling in a competitive industry. Prepare to be inspired by his story of resilience, adaptability, and innovation in the ever-evolving F&B landscape.

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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.

, How to Build an F&B Empire: Proven Strategies and Insights from Patrick Chan, CEO of Kitchen Haus Group

At the heart of Kitchen Haus Group lies the vision of its founders, an ambitious husband-and-wife team who embarked on their journey in 1980 with a single company canteen. Despite having no prior experience, they quickly won over stakeholders through their commitment to quality food, integrity, and excellent service. Over the years, their determination and innovation led to the operation of 30 canteens across the island and the establishment of a diverse family of F&B businesses spanning catering categories and the value chain.

Today, Kitchen Haus Group oversees an expansive portfolio of brands, continually challenging the traditional perceptions of what a brick-and-mortar F&B business can achieve. The group remains at the forefront of innovation, embracing new technologies, adapting to shifting market demands, and prioritizing sustainability—all while maintaining a focus on growth, profitability, and fostering a strong sense of community.

Since its inception in 1980, the business has evolved significantly, yet its core values remain unchanged. Kitchen Haus Group continues to aspire to be a leading force in Singapore’s F&B landscape and the region, offering a diverse range of high-quality food solutions driven by exceptional service, sustainability, and unwavering integrity.

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