Crystal Jade cuts 120 jobs in Singapore as four outlets close

Singapore restaurant group Crystal Jade has issued termination notices to about 120 workers as part of a restructuring ahead of a proposed sale of the business, The Straits Times reported.

Four outlets ceased operations on 6 October, leaving the group with nine operating restaurants in Singapore and a workforce of about 210. 

The affected outlets include three Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao restaurants at Bugis Junction, Toa Payoh and i12 Katong, and Crystal Jade GO at Oasis Terraces in Punggol.

Restructuring affects restaurant staff

Advisory firm Kroll, whose representatives were appointed receivers over the holding companies of Crystal Jade’s Singapore and Hong Kong operations on 29 September, said on 7 October that the restructuring measures identified for the Singapore business had been implemented.

The job cuts affect employees at the closed restaurants and certain corporate functions. 

Kroll said affected workers would receive salaries up to their final day of employment, with restaurant staff serving their applicable notice periods and receiving compensation in line with their employment contracts.

Separately, Crystal Jade Food Manufacturing, the group’s Singapore central kitchen, ceased operations on 5 October as part of broader restructuring efforts. The business operates outside the scope of the receivership, and the decision was taken by management.

Kroll’s representatives do not expect further outlet closures in Singapore.

Union supports affected workers

Crystal Jade and Kroll have been engaging the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), an affiliate of Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), since 30 September to support affected employees.

FDAWU general secretary Sankaradass S. Chami said, “FDAWU is heartened that we were approached to support affected union members and workers following the appointment of the receivers.

“We know this will be a difficult and uncertain time for affected members, workers and their families. Our focus is to ensure that members and workers are treated fairly, kept informed and received the support they need and do not have to navigate this period of uncertainty alone.”

The union is working with NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) and employer partners to help affected workers find new jobs. 

More than 400 job opportunities have been curated across food manufacturing, food services, hospitality, wholesale and retail, with on-site interviews arranged during the employee communications exercise.

Participating employers include Paris Baguette, Neo Group Bakery and Din Tai Fung. Union representatives have also provided guidance on support schemes and prepared care packs containing daily essentials and groceries for affected union members.

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