Questions about the food and beverage sector answered
- What is Singapore’s food and beverage sector?
- Is the food and beverage sector stable if you’re considering a mid-career switch?
- What kind of jobs are there in the food and beverage sector?
- What’s the salary like?
- What are the growth areas in the food and beverage sector?
- What courses or skills are needed to join the food and beverage sector?
About Singapore’s food and beverage sector
Singapore’s food and beverage (F&B) sector is a vibrant and integral part of the nation’s economic landscape. Known for its rich culinary diversity and world-class dining experiences, this sector encompasses many businesses, from hawker stalls to high-end restaurants. The F&B industry caters to the local population and attracts many tourists yearly, making it a crucial component of Singapore’s hospitality sector.
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Size of the market
Singapore’s F&B sector has continued to experience steady growth, contributing significantly to the national GDP. As of February 2024, the total sales value of F&B services was estimated at S$1 billion. The sector comprises thousands of establishments ranging from small eateries to large-scale food service operations.
Why is this sector important to Singapore’s economy?
Singapore’s F&B sector is a vibrant and diverse industry encompassing many businesses, including restaurants, cafes, bars, food manufacturers, and distributors. The sector significantly contributes to Singapore’s GDP, raking over S$5 billion in 2022.
The F&B sector plays a pivotal role in Singapore’s economy for several reasons. As of 2022, the sector employs about 5.5 per cent of the workforce, providing jobs to a diverse workforce across various skill levels. Second, the sector is a key player in tourism, attracting visitors with its unique and multicultural food offerings.
Growth areas and outlook of the food and beverage sector
Continued investments in infrastructure and a focus on enhancing the overall dining experience ensure that Singapore remains a top choice for food enthusiasts globally. In 2022, NTUC, affiliated unions, and industry associations within the F&B sector signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish an F&B Professional Community, working together to build a robust ecosystem in the industry.
The primary focus of this collaboration is to offer career guidance and opportunities for young workers and individuals looking to switch careers. It aims to facilitate their entry into the F&B industry and support their career growth and progression. NTUC’s Assistant Secretary-General, Melvin Yong, said:
“We hope that in the near term, we will be able to attract more workers to the F&B industry and, in the longer term, provide more sustainable solutions to address the constant challenge of labour shortages in our F&B sectors.”
Singapore’s F&B sector is poised for further expansion and is driven by several key growth areas. Digitalisation, sustainability, healthy eating, and food delivery shape the industry’s landscape. Here are some of the key factors driving its growth.
1. Digitalisation of operations
One key factor driving the growth of the F&B sector is the increasing digitalisation trend. With the rise of food delivery platforms and online ordering systems, many F&B establishments have adapted to the new normal and expanded their reach to a broader customer base.
2. Shift towards sustainability
Additionally, there is a growing preference for environmentally friendly products and sustainable practices within the F&B sector. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices and seek businesses that prioritise sustainability.
3. Adoption of a healthier lifestyle
Another prominent trend in the F&B sector is the demand for healthy and natural foods. As Singaporeans become more health-conscious, there is rising interest in nutritious and wholesome dining options. This has led to the emergence of new food concepts and restaurants that cater to this demand.
4. Need for convenience
Furthermore, the F&B sector has seen a significant increase in takeout and food delivery services. With consumers embracing these services more than ever, revenue in the online food delivery market is projected to rise from $2 billion in 2023 with a projected market volume of close to $3 billion by 2027.
5. Growth of tourism
As Singapore’s tourism sector recovers post-pandemic, the food and beverage sector is also experiencing a rebound, buoyed by tourism receipts. F&B sales volume rose by 28 percent year-on-year in the third quarter of 2022.
Mid-career switch: Why is the food and beverage sector a good choice?
For those considering a mid-career switch, the F&B sector offers compelling reasons to transition. The industry is known for its dynamic and fast-paced environment, which can be both challenging and rewarding. Opportunities for career advancement are plentiful, with roles ranging from culinary to management positions.
The sector also values transferable skills such as customer service, creativity, and leadership, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking a change from their current careers. Moreover, the chance to work in a sector that contributes to the local cultural fabric can motivate many Singaporeans.
What are the types of jobs, and what is the salary like in the food and beverage sector?
More F&B businesses are embracing digital technology to enhance and expand their operations. As the sector leans towards digital transformation, talent with skills in business management, customer experience, and sustainability are in demand. The F&B sector offers a diverse range of job opportunities. Salaries vary depending on the role and level of expertise.
Here are some examples listed on the MyCareersFuture portal:
| Role | Salary Range |
| Head Chef | $4,600 to $5,500 |
| Outlet Manager | $2,800 to $3,300 |
| Operations Director | $5,000 to $8,000 |
| Chef De Partie | $2,500 to $4,500 |
| Assistant Manager | $3,300 to $5,500 |
| Restaurant Captain | $4,500 to $6,500 |
| Service Crew | $2,800 to $3,200 |
| Quality Control Executive | $2,600 to $3,500 |
| Business Development Executive | $2,600 to $4,000 |
| Operations Supervisor | $3,000 to $5,000 |
What courses or skills are needed to join the food and beverage sector?
Entering the F&B sector requires a blend of formal education and practical skills. Relevant courses include culinary arts, hospitality management, and food science. It would help to equip yourself with in-demand skills such as business management, digital proficiency, green practices, customer experience, and creative technical skills.
Don’t worry if you lack experience or the necessary skills to enter the F&B sector. You can enrol in WSG’s Career Conversion Programme (CCP) with On-the-Job Training for the following job roles in F&B:
- CCP for Food Professionals and Associates (New Hire PMET) – SGPC
- CCP for Food Professionals and Associates (New Hire PMET) – SHRM
- CCP for Food Professionals and Associates (New Hire RnF) – SGPC
- CCP for Food Professionals and Associates (New Hire RnF) – SHRM
Register here to speak to a career coach if you need professional advice on navigating your career journey to the F&B sector!
Read More: Career Conversion Programmes – Employers Are Taking Them Seriously, and Why Jobseekers Should Too
Here are some useful reads to help you learn more about the sector.
5 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Career in the F&B Sector
F&B Industry: Why Now is the Right Time to Make the Switch
What Digital Skills Do You Need for the F&B Sector in Singapore Today?
Thinking of a Career in Singapore’s Hospitality and F&B Industry? Here’s What Roles Are Available
Cooking Up a Winning Career: 7 Reasons Why Being a Chef Could Be the Right Fit for You
Managing Career Ups and Downs: This Singaporean Chef Lost His Sight But Hasn’t Given Up
Self-Made Success: After His Fashion Biz Folded, He Turned to Cooking
