Retrenched Engineer,72,Finds Sweet Success with Moist Muffins at Old Airport Road
Table of Contents
- 1. Retrenched Engineer,72,Finds Sweet Success with Moist Muffins at Old Airport Road
- 2. Bakes n Bites: A Hidden Gem Emerges
- 3. Signature Treats: Beyond the Muffins
- 4. A Career Reinvented
- 5. Context & Evergreen Insights
- 6. frequently Asked Questions About Bakes and Bites
- 7. What measures should the Singapore government implement to ensure its hawker culture, especially regarding misinformation, can withstand future waves of false details circulating online?
- 8. Elderly Hawkers’ bakery Sales Drop After false Closure Claim
- 9. The Impact of Misinformation on Local Bakeries
- 10. Specific Bakeries Affected & Sales Figures
- 11. Why Elderly Hawkers are particularly Vulnerable
- 12. The Role of Social Media & Messaging Apps
- 13. How to Support Affected Bakeries & Combat Misinformation
- 14. Government & Community initiatives
- 15. Real-World Example: Thye Moh Chan’s Response
- 16. Benefits of supporting Hawker Bakeries
Christopher Lau,a 72-year-old former engineer,is proving that it’s never too late for a career change. Lau,after facing retrenchment at 55,has found unexpected success as a hawker-baker at Singapore’s Old Airport Road Food Centre. His stall, Bakes n Bites, is gaining attention for its delicious offerings, especially the acclaimed, delightfully moist chilled muffins.
For 15 years, Bakes n Bites has quietly operated at Old Airport Road. Lau’s journey from manufacturing engineer to baker is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Partnering with his wife, Christina Tan, 69, who assists after her administrative role at a construction firm, the couple is winning hearts (and stomachs) with their baked goods.
Signature Treats: Beyond the Muffins
While the moist chilled muffins are a standout, Bakes n bites also offers a tempting array of other treats. Customers can indulge in chicken pies, curry puffs, and brownies, all made with the same dedication and care.
| Item | Description | Price (SGD, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Moist Muffins | Chilled and known for their moist texture. | $1.50 – $2.50 |
| Chicken Pies | savory pie filled with tender chicken. | $2.00 – $3.00 |
| Curry Puffs | Spiced pastry filled with flavorful curry. | $1.20 – $2.00 |
| Brownies | Rich and fudgy chocolate brownies. | $2.50 – $3.50 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary. Please check in-store for the most current pricing.
A Career Reinvented
Lau’s transition into the food industry was born out of necessity and a passion for creating delicious food. His story is an inspiration for those facing similar career crossroads. He highlights the importance of transferable skills and the potential for success in unexpected fields.
Pro Tip: When exploring a career change,identify skills from your previous role that can be applied to the new field.Networking and seeking advice from people working in your target industry can also be invaluable.
What is your favorite muffin flavor, and would you try a muffin from Bakes n Bites?
Context & Evergreen Insights
The story of bakes n Bites is a microcosm of Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, which was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2020. Hawker centers are not just places to eat; they are social hubs and a vital part of the nation’s identity.
Did You Know? Singapore has implemented initiatives to support hawkers, including grants for upgrading equipment and training programs to help them adapt to changing consumer preferences.
Furthermore, stories like Christopher Lau’s underscore the growing trend of older adults embracing entrepreneurship. According to a 2023 report by the Singapore Business Federation, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of individuals over 50 starting their own businesses, driven by a desire for greater autonomy and financial security.
How can Singapore better support older workers transitioning to new careers or starting their own businesses?
frequently Asked Questions About Bakes and Bites
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What Makes Bakes n Bites’ Muffins Special?
the muffins stand out due to their extraordinary moisture and the use of high-quality ingredients.
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Is Bakes n Bites a good option for muffins near Old Airport Road?
Yes, it’s a popular choice, especially known for its fresh and tasty treats at affordable prices.
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Are there other popular items besides muffins?
Absolutely! The chicken pies and curry puffs are also highly recommended.
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What’s the story behind the owner of Bakes n Bites?
The owner, Christopher Lau, is a former engineer who turned to baking after being retrenched.
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How can I find Bakes n Bites at Old Airport Road Food Centre?
Look for the stall with a steady stream of customers and the aroma of freshly baked goods.
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Does Bakes n Bites offer any vegan or gluten-free options?
Currently, Bakes n Bites focuses on traditional recipes; check with the stall directly for any specialty offerings.
Have you visited Bakes n Bites? Share your experience in the comments below!
What measures should the Singapore government implement to ensure its hawker culture, especially regarding misinformation, can withstand future waves of false details circulating online?
Elderly Hawkers’ bakery Sales Drop After false Closure Claim
The Impact of Misinformation on Local Bakeries
A wave of false information circulating on social media and messaging apps has led to a concerning decline in sales for several hawker bakeries in Singapore, particularly those run by elderly hawkers. the rumors, claiming permanent closures due to rising costs or health concerns, have considerably impacted foot traffic and revenue for these cherished local businesses. This situation highlights the vulnerability of traditional hawker stalls to the rapid spread of fake news and the importance of verifying information before sharing it.
Specific Bakeries Affected & Sales Figures
Several well-known bakeries specializing in traditional Singaporean bread and pastries have reported significant losses. While precise figures are difficult to obtain, anecdotal evidence and interviews with stall owners paint a grim picture. The decline in sales is particularly acute during peak hours, traditionally bustling with customers seeking morning or afternoon treats.
| Bakery name | Reported Sales Drop (Week-on-Week) | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Kim Keat Hokkien Mee Bakery (Bread Section) | Approximately 40-50% | Hokkien Mee Bread, Curry Bread |
| Thye Moh Chan | Around 30% (attributed to closure rumors) | Tau Sar Piah (Mung Bean Pastry) |
| Eastern Confectionery | Estimated 25-35% | Wife Cake, Tau Sar piah |
Why Elderly Hawkers are particularly Vulnerable
Elderly hawkers frequently enough lack the digital literacy and resources to effectively combat online misinformation. Many do not have a strong social media presence or the ability to quickly respond to false claims. This makes them especially susceptible to the negative consequences of false rumors. Furthermore, many have been operating their businesses for decades, relying heavily on word-of-mouth and a loyal customer base, wich can be quickly eroded by inaccurate information. The hawker culture in Singapore is a vital part of the nation’s identity, and protecting these businesses is crucial.
The primary source of the false closure claims appears to be WhatsApp and Facebook groups dedicated to Singapore food and hawker food.Screenshots of unverified messages quickly spread, leading many to believe the bakeries were permanently shutting down. This underscores the need for greater media literacy and responsible sharing of information online.The speed at which misleading information travels online is a critically important challenge.
How to Support Affected Bakeries & Combat Misinformation
Several initiatives are underway to support the affected hawker bakeries and counter the spread of false information. Here’s how you can definately help:
- Verify Information: Before sharing any news about bakery closures, check official sources like the bakery’s Facebook page (if they have one), or reputable Singapore news websites.
- Visit the Bakeries: The most direct way to help is to patronize these businesses. Enjoy their tasty traditional pastries and show your support.
- Share Accurate Information: If you see false information circulating, politely correct it and share links to verified sources.
- Support Local Food Blogs & Influencers: Follow and share content from food bloggers and food influencers who are actively promoting these bakeries.
- Advocate for digital Literacy Programs: Encourage initiatives that provide digital skills training for hawkers, enabling them to manage their online presence and address misinformation.
Government & Community initiatives
The Singapore government, through agencies like the National Environment Agency (NEA), is actively working to support hawker businesses. This includes providing financial assistance and promoting hawker centers as vibrant community hubs. Community groups are also organizing campaigns to raise awareness about the issue and encourage support for affected bakeries. The National Environment Agency (NEA) website provides resources for hawkers.
Real-World Example: Thye Moh Chan’s Response
Thye Moh Chan, a renowned bakery specializing in Tau Sar piah, was particularly impacted by the false closure rumors. They quickly took to their Facebook page to clarify the situation, assuring customers that they remained open and committed to serving the community. This proactive response helped to mitigate some of the damage, but sales remained significantly lower than usual. This case study demonstrates the importance of swift and clear communication in addressing online rumors.
Benefits of supporting Hawker Bakeries
- Preserving Heritage: Supporting these bakeries helps preserve a vital part of Singapore’s culinary heritage.
- Supporting Local Economy: Your purchases directly contribute to the livelihoods of local entrepreneurs.
- Enjoying Authentic Flavors: These bakeries offer unique and delicious Singaporean snacks that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Strengthening Community: Patronizing hawker stalls fosters a sense of community and connection.