As part of an organizational overhaul ahead of an intended company sale, dining chain Crystal Jade has closed four outlets in Singapore and handed out pink slips to approximately 120 staff members. The closures, which took effect on October 6, affect three Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao restaurants at Bugis Junction, Toa Payoh, and i12 Katong, alongside a Crystal Jade GO outlet at Oasis Terraces in Punggol.
The implementation of these Singapore restructuring steps was verified by Crystal Jade’s Singapore and Hong Kong holding companies’ receivers—representatives of advisory firm Kroll—who were appointed to the roles on September 29. The downsizing leaves the restaurant group with nine operating outlets in Singapore and a total workforce of about 210 employees.
Kroll intends to market business for sale
The financial and risk advisory firm Kroll stated that its representatives intend to market the business for sale as a going concern. The objective of the proposed sale is to preserve the group’s established brands, restaurant operations, and the value built over more than 30 years, with Crystal Jade having been founded in Singapore in 1991. The restaurant premises affected by the recent closures are being handed back to landlords.
Unlike the outlet closures, Crystal Jade Food Manufacturing—the group’s central kitchen in Singapore—ceased operations separately on October 5. Kroll noted that the central kitchen operates outside the scope of the receivership, and its closure was decided directly by company management as part of broader corporate restructuring efforts. Kroll representatives stated they do not expect any further outlet closures in Singapore following these measures.
FDAWU helps support affected workers
Although Crystal Jade operates as a non-unionised company, the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU)—an affiliate of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC)—was approached by the appointed receivers on September 30 to help support affected workers. FDAWU general secretary Sankaradass S. Chami noted that the union’s priority is ensuring affected members and staff are treated fairly and receive necessary guidance.
More than 400 positions spanning the wholesale and retail, food manufacturing, hospitality, and food services sectors have been lined up by NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) and FDAWU to support the displaced personnel. Employer partners such as Paris Baguette, Neo Group Bakery, and Din Tai Fung participated in on-site interviews during the communications exercise. Affected workers can also access career coaching and support through e2i and FDAWU channels.
Employee Compensation and Final Payouts
Kroll confirmed that all affected employees have been informed directly regarding the restructuring. Workers will receive their salary payments up to their final date of employment. Restaurant staff are required to continue serving their applicable notice periods and will receive compensation in accordance with their individual employment contracts.
What happens to Crystal Jade restaurants?
What happens to the remaining Crystal Jade restaurants in Singapore?
The nine remaining operating outlets in Singapore will continue to function as usual under the ongoing receivership and restructuring process.
Are further outlet closures expected in Singapore?
Advisory firm Kroll stated that it does not expect any additional outlet closures as part of the current reorganisation ahead of the proposed business sale.
How can affected workers contact the union for employment assistance?
Affected staff and union members can reach out to FDAWU directly or schedule appointments with career coaches through NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) hotline.