Chinese hotpot chain Haidilao to shutter 13-year Singapore outlet

Haidilao notified its members of the closure via a text message Wednesday, according to The Business Times.

The outlet was opened in 2012 as Haidilao’s first location outside of China.

A customer walks past a hotpot restaurant of Haidilao in Hangzhou city, east China's Zhejiang province, Sept. 26, 2018. Photo by AFP

"This was our very first outlet in Singapore and served as an introduction to Chinese hotpot for many local diners," said Haidilao Singapore spokesperson.

"It also holds countless fond memories for our team and guests alike."

The closure follows Haidilao’s recent shuttering of three suburban restaurants in Singapore’s Bedok, Pasir Ris, and Punggol areas after a period of rapid expansion.

A Haidilao spokesperson said earlier that key business considerations include labor costs, outlet locations, and rental expenses.

A spokesperson for CQ @ Clarke Quay, an iconic landmark for both locals and tourists, expressed appreciation for Haidilao’s "close partnership over the past 13 years."

"Given Haidilao’s strong presence across the island, we have mutually agreed that it is time for Haidilao Hotpot’s #1 Store unit to be refreshed with a new tenant at the end of its lease."

"We remain close partners in China, Malaysia, and Singapore."

Haidilao will be offering dining vouchers worth over SGD800,000 (US$625,000) to eligible members, according to online media outlet Mothership.

These vouchers can be used without a minimum spend requirement at any Haidilao location throughout Singapore.

Haidilao now has over 16 outlets in Singapore, among its more than 110 restaurants globally, including in the U.S, Canada and Australia.