Terry Neo

Founder & CEO, Kopifellas Group

BBA, Class of 2009

The traditional coffee shop in Singapore, offering a nostalgic and rustic experience for coffee lovers, is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate. With a strong passion for preserving Singapore’s kopi culture, especially after the closure of iconic shops like Chin Mee Chin and Hup Lee, Terry Neo began to wonder how much longer these beloved places would last. In 2017, Terry made the bold choice to leave his stable job as a trader to found Kopifellas, a modern kopi stall at Timbre+, which quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of traditional and creative beverages. 

Kopifellas’ success can be attributed to its fusion of tradition and modernity. However, like many other food and beverage (F&B) businesses, the team faced significant challenges, particularly that of rising rental and manpower costs. The situation worsened in 2020 when the pandemic dealt a severe blow to the industry, leading to a significant drop in customer visits. 

Despite the business environment, Terry and his team remained optimistic. This mindset was reinforced by the financial theories he learned at NUS Business School, which taught him that recessions typically occur every 10 to 12 years, and while challenging, always offer opportunities. Terry and his team swiftly adapted their operations during the circuit breaker, ramping up food delivery efforts and introducing a new set of meals for customers to order from home. 

Other financial principles that he gained, such as risk management and capital allocation, helped him navigate the downturn more strategically. Not only did he swiftly tap into the online market, but he also boldly decided to open FellasCube during the pandemic. While it may have seemed like a gamble, it was a practical application of the theories he had learned. 

FellasCube offers a unique experience, featuring an extensive menu that includes craft beers, cocktails, and fusion dishes. This dual-concept strategy aims to revitalise the traditional kopitiam culture, making it relevant to modern lifestyles. By embracing change while staying true to his passion, Terry has successfully carved out a niche for Kopifellas in Singapore’s vibrant F&B landscape. Through both Kopifellas and FellasCube, Terry not only aims to preserve the heritage of Singapore’s kopi culture but also propel it into the future with creativity and innovation.