Quench: A Refreshing Revolution by The SGFR Store Founders
In the bustling landscape of Singapore's snack culture, Haikkel and Luqmaan, the dynamic duo behind The SGFR Store, have made waves by introducing popular international snacks to the local market. However, their journey took an unexpected turn when larger distributors, inspired by their success on TikTok, began to undercut their prices and replicate their offerings. While many might view this as just business, the story behind their challenges reveals a deeper lesson in trust and entrepreneurship.
One pivotal moment occurred during an event when someone approached Haikkel and Luqmaan, positioning himself as a mentor in the logistics industry. He promised to help them bring items in at a fraction of the cost, a tempting offer for two young entrepreneurs eager to grow their business. Over time, Haikkel and Luqmaan introduced him to their best-selling products and even passed along their top 20 best sellers and supplier contacts, believing they were forging a mutually beneficial partnership.
However, the situation took a turn for the worse. After a period of silence from their mentor, Haikkel discovered that their top products were being sold at major supermarket chains. When he reached out to this so-called mentor, he was shocked to learn that his trust had been betrayed. The mentor had used their contacts to bring their best-selling products into stores, securing exclusive arrangements that blocked Haikkel and Luqmaan from accessing the same supply.
This betrayal was a hard lesson for the young entrepreneurs. Lacking the economies of scale that larger chains possessed, they found themselves at a significant disadvantage. However, instead of being defeated, they chose to learn from this experience. They realized the importance of being cautious in business relationships—a lesson that textbooks often overlook but is critical for anyone venturing into entrepreneurship.
Determined to take control of their destiny, Haikkel and Luqmaan decided to create their own unique product that would not be easily replicated. Thus, the Quench Ice Cream Drink was born, a delightful beverage inspired by the beloved "Balang" drink traditionally found at bazaars in Singapore and Malaysia. These vibrant drinks, famous for their rich flavors, often come with a premium price tag and high sugar content, making them exclusive treats typically found at special events. Recognizing a gap in the market for a more accessible, affordable, and lower-sugar alternative, they set out to bring the essence of Balang to everyone, anytime, anywhere.
The Quench Ice Cream Drink captures the beloved flavors of the original Balang drink in a convenient tin, making it a portable and refreshing option for a wider audience. After months of meticulous research and development, the founders are thrilled to introduce this indulgent treat that embodies the spirit of the traditional beverage while promoting a healthier lifestyle.
At just 20 years old, Haikkel and Luqmaan exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship and resilience. Their journey—from running The SGFR Store to launching Quench—serves as an inspiring testament to the idea that anyone can be an entrepreneur. They believe in the power of perseverance, proving that with creativity and determination, it’s possible to carve out a niche even against formidable industry giants.
With Quench, they invite everyone to experience the joy of a Balang-inspired treat, revolutionizing the way we enjoy traditional flavors in a modern, convenient format. Their story is a refreshing reminder that innovation can thrive, even in challenging circumstances, and that true entrepreneurship is about learning, adapting, and never giving up.