Embarking on a new food and beverage (F&B) business is an exciting journey, brimming with possibilities for creativity and success. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy café, a trendy food truck, or an upscale dining establishment, the F&B industry offers a plethora of opportunities for budding entrepreneurs. However, launching a successful F&B venture demands careful planning, meticulous attention to detail, and a profound understanding of your target audience. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential steps to help you kickstart your own F&B business, from conceptualizing a unique idea to navigating the legal intricacies and assembling a talented team. With passion and perseverance, you can transform your vision of owning a thriving F&B business into a rewarding reality.

According to National University of Singapore Business School, younger people are getting busier with work and Singaporeans eat out for 78% of their meals.

The Food Services Industry in Singapore contributes 0.8% to the national GDP and comprises 4.5% of the nation’s workforce.

More than 7200 establishments in 5 sub-industries – restaurants, fast food, cafes, coffee shops, pubs and food caterers.

Total sales value of F&B services in March 2018 was estimated at S$716 million, higher than the S$691 million in March 2017.

Start a Food and Beverage Business in Singapore from $395

Little Red Dot with a Huge Appetite

Singaporeans love their food, and it shows in the vibrant culinary scene that blends local flavors with exotic cuisines. Eating isn’t just about sustenance; it’s a way of life. Tourists and expats are also drawn to this rich food culture, enticed by the variety and affordability. The sight of restaurants and bars, often sprawling across entire streets or floors, is a spectacle in itself.

Thanks to innovative initiatives led by Workforce Singapore (WSG), the F&B industry is evolving. Small and medium-sized eateries are adopting new food processing technologies, digital solutions, and smart marketing to boost productivity and stay competitive. With rising incomes, a steady expat population, and growing tourism, Singapore’s F&B scene is poised for further growth.

Licences and Legal Formalities to start a Food And Beverage Business in Singapore

Legal Formalities for ALL F&B Businesses

  • Incorporate the company on Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) of Singapore.
  • Register as an Employer with Central Provident Fund (CPF).
  • Apply for Food Shop Licence from Singapore Food Agency (SFA).
  • Enroll employees for the WSQ Food Hygiene Course via SFA.

Supplementary Legal Formalities

  • Apply for Liquor Licence from Singapore Police Force (SPF), for serving alcohol on premises.
  • Apply for Public Entertainment Licence from SPF, for providing entertainment on premises.
  • Apply for Halal Certification from Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS), for serving food prepared according to Islamic Law.
  • Apply for Tobacco Retail Licence from Health Sciences Authority (HSA), for selling tobacco on premises.
  • Apply for Import Permit from Singapore Customs, for importing food or ingredients.
  • Apply for S Pass from Ministry of Manpower (MOM), for hiring foreign workers.
  • Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST), for exceeding S$1 million in annual revenue.

Let us help you build your new Hub in Singapore!

Get all the information you need about corporate services in Singapore via WhatsApp, Webchat or Email: +65 8121 2113