After serving the community for 18 years, a neighbourhood ice cream shop will be shutting down this month. The owner said the shop can no longer cope with the rising cost of rent, ingredients and electricity.
Located at 12 Jalan Kuras, Ice Cream Chefs announced that it will close for good on October 21. A farewell notice has already been put up to thank loyal customers for their support.
According to Shin Min Daily News, its owner shared that the shop was originally run by a friend. Thirteen years ago, it almost closed down, but his two children were so upset that he decided to take over and continue the business. Over the years, he created nearly 20 unique ice cream recipes, many inspired by local flavours, which became a hit among customers.
However, keeping the shop afloat has become increasingly difficult. He shared:
“In the past three years, rent has gone up by at least 20 per cent. The prices of ingredients like milk, cream, sugar and waffles keep rising—almost every six months. Electricity bills have also gone up by nearly half compared to before.”
He added that the shop used to receive corporate orders for end-of-year team-building events, which helped support the business. But these orders have become fewer due to the uncertain economy. “Last year, we were still trying to hold on, but since the first three months of this year, we have been running at a loss. I had no choice but to make this decision,” he explained.
Some regular customers, saddened by the closure, asked if he would consider holding workshops at home to teach people how to make his signature ice cream. But he said it was not possible.
“The ice cream machines are very large, so I can’t make them at home. Also, many ingredient suppliers have stopped selling certain niche products, like a special apple juice we use, to cut costs. Because of that, some of our popular flavours can no longer be made,” he said.
Looking back, the owner said the past decade has given him many precious memories. “There are many beautiful moments I will always remember. I’m reluctant to close, but given the current situation, there’s nothing more I can do,” he said with a sigh.
