\n<\/p>\n
Her now-defunct Century Square outlet closed last month. \u201cRent was too expensive,\u201d says the now Singaporean PR, who paid about $17,000 a month.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe were making losses, that\u2019s why we closed the outlet,\u201d says Laurel, who helps out at her mother\u2019s stores, though she declined to specify the amount incurred.\u00a0<\/p>\n
To offset the closure, Nelly opened a new outlet at a Toa Payoh HDB void deck on 1 April 2026. Compared to the mall store, the new space has a more charming old-school feel.<\/p>\n
\u201cRent is more affordable here,\u201d Nelly says, though she declined to reveal any figures. \u201cI\u2019m still able to profit from the business, which is why we\u2019re able to keep opening stores.\u201d<\/p>\n
The mother-daughter duo now work together daily at the Toa Payoh outlet. \u201cIt\u2019s not just about selling snacks \u2014 it\u2019s about keeping the tradition alive so the next generation still gets to enjoy it,\u201d Nelly says. Prices at the Toa Payoh outlet are also kept slightly lower as many customers there are elderly.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe try to keep prices down because most of the customers in Toa Payoh are older folks,\u201d Laurel explains.<\/p>\n
Two other outlets at Junction Nine and Causeway Point will continue operating as usual.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n