Written answer by Ministry of National Development on coffee shop operators that are independent or part of a chain

Jul 4, 2023

Question No: 4757

Question by: Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim

To ask the Minister for National Development whether, in awarding contracts to coffeeshop operators, the Ministry considers whether the operator is independent or part of a chain.

Answer:

HDB introduced the Price-Quality Method (PQM) framework for all new HDB coffeeshop tenders in September 2018. PQM tenders are reviewed based on the tenderers’ business concept, including marketing plan, innovation, affordability, healthier food options, productivity initiatives, and community centric proposals. Whether a tenderer is part of a chain, is not among the factors considered.

2        Overall, HDB ensures a good supply of coffee shops in every HDB estate and town so that there is healthy competition.