A few days ago, we were surprised by the sudden closure of all the Liang Sandwich Bar outlets in Singapore.
Just when our Singaporean friends have made peace with the fact that the “expansive roti canai” will no longer be available, there are now new updates to counter that belief.
The brand’s master franchisee for South East Asia, Liang Group of Companies, released a statement today (Friday, 21st February). It expressed that the “sudden closure of all outlets in Singapore was made solely by the local franchisee without proper consultation or authorisation from us or the Brand Principal”.
That’s the first red flag.
The group’s CEO Jarvin Leow added that the company is “deeply concerned that these actions have caused confusion and put Liang Sandwich Bar in bad light”, and that “the local franchisee has been censured and we have taken firm and appropriate measures to resolve this matter”. Does this mean someone’s getting fired?
Jarvin assured the public that the recent closure “is not permanent”. In fact, Liang Sandwich Bar will be rebranded as Liang Crispy Roll. “Liang Crispy Roll is on track to make its debut in Singapore at several locations in Q4 2020. We are upbeat about the relaunch and will be ready to serve Singaporeans our signature crispy rolls and other exciting new menu offerings,” he was quoted as saying.
For fans who are wondering, Jay Chou will remain as the brand’s ambassador. In fact, the Chinese sandwich chain is looking to open new branches in New York, Chicago, London, Melbourne, Seoul and Manila by June 2020.
Update (Saturday, 22nd February):
An official statement concerning the Malaysian franchise reads:
“In Malaysia, the Mid Valley outlet was first to be rebranded as Liang Crispy Roll and its flagship store in Suria KLCC was launched at the end of January. Plans are underway to progressively transform all its 58 outlets in Malaysia.”
Source: Today Online.
