Zoul’s Corner has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of Singapore’s F&B industry, receiving the esteemed Singapore Prestige 100 Award 2024/2025 and the Top Business Service and Quality Award 2024/2025. At the helm is its founder, Mr. Azhar Mohd Salleh, whose dedication and vision have transformed a family legacy into a celebrated culinary brand.
Zoul’s Corner’s story began with Mr. Azhar’s mother, who spent over 30 years perfecting traditional Padang cuisine at a humble hawker stall. In 2002, Mr. Azhar took over the business, driven by a desire to modernize and streamline operations. Recognizing the need to adapt to changing customer preferences, he pivoted to focus on Ayam Penyet as the signature dish—executing the transformation within just 24 hours. This bold move marked the start of a journey that would lead to the incorporation of Zoul’s Corner as a private limited company in 2017.
The path to success was not without its challenges. Zoul’s Corner faced hurdles such as manpower shortages, operational inefficiencies, and a small kitchen space. Mr. Azhar’s proactive approach—implementing robust standard operating procedures (SOPs) and continuously refining processes—ensured these obstacles were effectively addressed. His commitment to daily interviews and hands-on leadership has been instrumental in building a reliable and motivated team.
Specializing in Malay and Indonesian cuisine, Zoul’s Corner is best known for its iconic Ayam Penyet. Renowned for its authentic flavors and consistent quality, the dish has become synonymous with the brand. Mr. Azhar’s mantra—“Remember Ayam Penyet, Remember Zoul’s Corner”—reflects his unwavering focus on delivering excellence in both product and service.
As of 2024, Zoul’s Corner operates four outlets, with plans to open two additional locations in the coming year. With a vision of reaching 15 outlets across Singapore, Mr. Azhar is committed to reinvesting earnings to fuel growth while maintaining the brand’s signature quality.
Zoul’s Corner is deeply rooted in the spirit of giving. Through its “Sharing is Caring” initiative, the company donates hundreds of Ayam Penyet meals quarterly to support the community. Most notably, during its grand opening in October, Zoul’s Corner exceeded its target of 500 meals, distributing 640 free meals to those in need. This commitment to community welfare underscores the company’s belief in uplifting others while growing together.
Mr. Azhar’s leadership journey has been one of evolution. From being deeply involved in the kitchen to overseeing operations as a business owner, he has transitioned seamlessly into a strategic role. Supported by a dedicated middle management and operations team, he now focuses on driving growth and fostering innovation.
Networking has played a crucial role in his success. Through collaborations with seasoned entrepreneurs and his participation in the MOTD (Monsters of the Deep) coaching program, Mr. Azhar has gained valuable insights into areas like franchising and business scaling. With guidance from his mentors, Mr. Fazluddin and Dr. Malik, his ability to learn and adapt has been key in achieving significant milestones, including impressive revenue growth over the past few years.
What sets Zoul’s Corner apart is its unique approach to competition. Rather than viewing competitors as rivals, Mr. Azhar sees them as collaborators, leveraging shared knowledge to improve and grow. This philosophy, combined with a focus on low investment, high-return models, ensures Zoul’s Corner remains agile and adaptable in a competitive market.
While Mr. Azhar prioritizes stabilizing operations locally, his long-term vision includes making Zoul’s Corner a franchise-ready business. By perfecting SOPs and operational frameworks, he aims to create a scalable model that can thrive under future ownership, ensuring the legacy of Zoul’s Corner endures for generations.
The awards bestowed upon Zoul’s Corner are not merely acknowledgments of its business achievements but a celebration of its values: quality, community, and resilience. Mr. Azhar’s journey from a family hawker stall to a leading F&B brand is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and a clear vision.
As Zoul’s Corner continues to expand and inspire, it stands as a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, heart, and a commitment to excellence. Under Mr. Azhar’s leadership, the brand is set to reach even greater heights, leaving an indelible mark on Singapore’s F&B landscape.
