Singapore Liang Sandwich Bars close amidst dispute

Four Singapore Liang Sandwich Bars have closed suddenly, angering the master franchisee for Southeast Asia, Liang Group.

The company said the closures were unauthorized.

Liang Group CEO Jarvin Leow said the company had not authorized the stores’ shuttering and that it had taken measures to resolve the situation.

While the reason for the closures remains unclear, the stores are currently in the midst of a rebranding effort across the region later this year, when the Singapore Liang Sandwich Bars will be renamed “Liang Crispy Roll”. The closures have proved a hindrance to the rebranding efforts.

Stores in other territories have already gone through the rebranding exercise.

Leow offered a formal apology to customers for any confusion caused and for the stores having been cast in a bad light.

The franchise is due to launch in new outlets in several major international cities shortly.

Described as an “Asian-style sandwich” chain, the first Singapore Liang Sandwich Bar opened at VivoCity mall in July 2018. A second store followed in Raffles City.

The Taiwanese brand has more than 12,000 outlets worldwide throughout Asia and North America. It is endorsed by a prominent Mandopop rap artist Jay Chou.