{
  "id": 20124035,
  "title": "Banking on heritage flavours to stand out in crowded F&B market",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/15/banking-on-heritage-flavours-to-stand-out-in-crowded-f-b-market",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-11-15T06:03:45.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2026/11/1578268/banking-heritage-flavours-stand-out-crowded-fb-market"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Malaysia's food and beverage industry is poised for growth in 2026, driven by increased tourism and consumer spending, according to recent reports. However, the sector faces challenges in maintaining profitability amidst rising operating costs and more discerning consumers. Café operator Empat Sekawan is capitalizing on this opportunity by offering a unique blend of traditional Malaysian and Asian flavours, targeting families and groups seeking authentic dining experiences.\n\nFounded by Annie Tan Poh Ai, Empat Sekawan aims to preserve Malaysia's culinary heritage while appealing to younger generations. The brand's philosophy revolves around blending familiar home-style cuisine with a contemporary menu, ensuring that traditional flavors remain intact. This approach not only distinguishes the brand in a saturated market but also fosters a sense of cultural identity among customers.\n\nTan emphasizes that Empat Sekawan's success hinges on the seamless execution of its value proposition. The establishment of a Halal-certified central kitchen is a strategic move to ensure consistent food quality and operational efficiency across its growing network of outlets. By centralizing food preparation, the brand aims to maintain uniformity and build customer trust, crucial for long-term sustainability.\n\nDespite these efforts, Empat Sekawan faces the challenge of translating its heritage-based concept into a scalable business without compromising on food quality. The operator must balance competitive pricing with maintaining margins, a delicate task given the current climate of price sensitivity among consumers. As the F&B landscape in Malaysia continues to evolve, Empat Sekawan's approach serves as a testament to the potential of infusing cultural heritage into modern dining experiences.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s food and beverage (F&B) industry is heading into a period of opportunity and intensifying competition, with tourism and domestic consumption expected to support demand even as rising operating costs and more selective consumer spending put pressure on margins.",
  "key_points": [
    "Malaysia's F&B industry expected to grow in 2026.",
    "Empat Sekawan offers traditional Malaysian and Asian flavors.",
    "Centralized Halal kitchen ensures consistency and quality."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Leveraging cultural heritage and centralized production allows niche operators to differentiate themselves in a saturated market while managing the operational complexities of scaling a traditional dining concept.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}