Once a beloved destination for dessert lovers, Singapore’s bakery cafe chain, Twelve Cupcakes, has entered a temporary state of liquidation. This unfortunate circumstance has led to the immediate closure of all its 20 establishments and the termination of approximately 80 employees.
The announcement, made on October 29, marks the end of a 14-year-long chapter in Singapore’s thriving food and beverage industry. The company expressed regret over the current predicament and offered a sincere apology. “We are deeply sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. We appreciate the unwavering support and partnership we have received over the years,” the brand conveyed in its statement.
Twelve Cupcakes’ employees, many of whom are represented by the Food, Drinks, and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), were taken by surprise by the abrupt closure. The company had been unionised since 2021, so the sudden shutdown without prior notice was met with shock and disappointment.
The union criticized the company’s decision, describing it as “irresponsible and unacceptable.” Currently, it is extending support to the affected staff in dealing with wage and retrenchment claims.
Twelve Cupcakes was founded in 2011 by popular celebrities Daniel Ong and Jaime Teo. The bakery cafe chain experienced a period of swift growth and was acquired in 2016 by the Dhunseri Group, an Indian conglomerate. The acquisition, which was worth S$2.5 million (US$1.9 million), was a strategic move aimed at expanding the brand’s presence across Asia.
Questions & Answers
**What led to the closure of Twelve Cupcakes?**
Twelve Cupcakes has entered a temporary state of liquidation, which forced the company to close all its 20 locations and terminate about 80 employees.
**How did the staff react to the sudden closure?**
The staff, most of whom are represented by the Food, Drinks, and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), were shocked and disappointed by the abrupt closure, as there was no prior warning.
**What does the Dhunseri Group’s acquisition of Twelve Cupcakes signify?**
The Dhunseri Group, an Indian conglomerate, acquired Twelve Cupcakes in 2016 for S$2.5 million (US$1.9 million). This was a strategic move aimed at expanding the bakery cafe chain’s presence across Asia.
