The Hainan Story undergoes restructuring, shutters 4 outlets within 2 months

Local Hainanese-Singaporean restaurant chain The Hainan Story has shuttered several outlets in recent months, sparking confusion and concern among patrons.

Recent closures

On Feb. 3, the I Love Tampines Facebook page announced that The Hainan Story Coffee House at Tampines Mall has ceased operations.

The post also noted that the nearest remaining outlets can be found at Pasir Ris Mall and Jewel Changi Airport.

The store's closure comes less than two years after its opening on Sep. 12, 2024.

In the comments section of the post, many netizens speculated if the chain was facing difficulties, with some pointing out that several of the chain's other branches had closed recently.

One commenter also shared a photo of a notice being placed outside the chain's outlet at Hillion Mall, indicating that it had closed.

The chain's Chinatown Point outlet was also reported to have closed in mid-December 2025.

A quick check on Google showed that the chain's outlets at Hillion Mall, Northpoint City, Tampines Mall and Chinatown Point are currently marked as permanently closed.

In 2024, The Hainan Story operated a total of 13 outlets across the island, including locations at Hotel Boss, Jewel Changi Airport, Jurong Point, Nex and Pasir Ris Mall.

As of the time of writing, nine outlets remain in operation.

Company undergoing restructuring

In response to queries from AsiaOne, The Hainan Story said on Feb. 5 that the outlet closures were part of a "broader strategic business review and restructuring initiative" aimed at strengthening the brand's long-term sustainability.

The company said the move would allow it to streamline operations, maintain a leaner footprint and improve operational efficiency across its remaining outlets, while managing costs amid a challenging operating environment.

The restructuring is expected to optimise manpower deployment, supply chain management, as well as operating expenses.

The Hainan Story also added that its remaining outlets continue to operate as usual, and expressed gratitude to its customers and business partners for their continued trust and support.

"As a homegrown brand, we sincerely appreciate the community's understanding and encouragement as we take this important step to strengthen our core operations, exercise responsible cost control, and build a more resilient foundation for the future."

Founded in 2020, The Hainan Story is known for putting a modern spin on traditional Hainanese-Singaporean fare.

The brand ran multiple concepts, ranging from restaurants and fast-casual coffee houses to bakeries and takeaway kiosks.

Mothership has reached out to The Hainan Story, but has not received a response.

Top photo from Timothy Chua/Google Maps