Kuala lumpur: Oriental Kopi emphasised that strong people management and consistent product quality remain key to sustaining growth in Malaysia's competitive food and beverage (F and B) industry, following the company's rapid expansion from a single kopitiam into a public listed company. Speaking as a guest on Bernama TV's The Nation programme today, its chief executive officer Datuk Calvin Chan said the company's listing and expansion have significantly increased its responsibilities, particularly towards employees and customers.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chan highlighted the challenges faced with managing a growing workforce, which has expanded from just five staff members to over 2,000 employees. He noted that maintaining service quality across outlets requires continuous engagement with staff. Unlike raw material costs, which can be negotiated or managed, ensuring consistent food preparation, service standards, and staff training necessitates time and close supervision.

Chan frequently visits outlets to engage directly with employees and understand operational challenges, particularly during festive periods when manpower shortages are common due to staff taking leave. Most outlets remain open during Chinese New Year celebrations, with management stepping in to support operations when necessary.

Discussing business strategy, Chan stated that the group prioritises quality control over rapid expansion through franchising. He acknowledged lessons learned from earlier ventures, where maintaining consistent standards proved difficult under franchise arrangements. Beyond restaurant operations, Oriental Kopi's packaged products such as kaya spread, white coffee, and sambal have grown into a significant brand segment, initially driven by customer demand for enjoying its offerings outside the outlets or overseas.

Chan added that these products have become popular souvenirs among tourists visiting Malaysia. He also advised aspiring entrepreneurs to start businesses with thorough planning, recommending at least six months of preparation, including identifying suitable partners and conducting market research.

Looking ahead, Chan expressed hope that the company would eventually expand internationally, bringing Malaysian kopitiam flavours to overseas markets, although no concrete overseas expansion plans have been finalised.