Coffee Shop Operators that are Independent or Part of a Chain

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development whether, in awarding contracts to coffee shop operators, the Ministry considers whether the operator is independent or part of a chain.

Mr Desmond Lee: The Housing & Development Board (HDB) introduced the Price-Quality Method (PQM) framework for all new HDB coffee shop 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.

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