Zoul’s Corner, a leading name in Singapore’s F&B landscape, continues to solidify its position as a standout business with a series of prestigious accolades. The company was recently honored with the SME Excellence Business Award 2025/2026 and the Top Leading Entrepreneurs Award 2025/2026. These recognitions highlight the exceptional leadership of Mr Azhar Mohd Salleh, whose vision has turned a humble family business into a thriving brand that resonates with both customers and industry peers alike.
The journey of Zoul’s Corner traces back to 2002 when Mr Azhar took over his mother’s hawker stall, which had been serving traditional Padang cuisine for over 30 years. With a drive to modernize operations and cater to evolving customer tastes, he swiftly introduced Ayam Penyet as the flagship dish—a decision that reshaped the company’s future. Within a mere 24 hours, Zoul’s Corner transformed its offerings, signaling the start of a new chapter that would ultimately see the establishment grow into a prominent name in the F&B sector.
Navigating the challenges that accompany growth, Zoul’s Corner faced a number of operational hurdles including limited kitchen space, manpower shortages, and inefficiencies in day-to-day management. However, Mr Azhar’s solution-oriented mindset and strategic leadership were pivotal in overcoming these obstacles. By introducing effective Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and focusing on training a reliable team, he set the foundation for sustained success.
Today, Zoul’s Corner is synonymous with exceptional Malay and Indonesian cuisine, and its Ayam Penyet has become a signature dish celebrated by patrons across the island. The focus on authentic flavors, consistency, and quality is evident in every meal, and the brand’s slogan, “Remember Ayam Penyet, Remember Zoul’s Corner,” perfectly encapsulates Mr Azhar’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
In 2024, the company expanded its operations to four outlets and, fueled by its recent accolades, has ambitious plans to open two more locations in the near future. Zoul’s Corner’s long-term objective of reaching 15 outlets reflects the brand’s desire to scale while maintaining the quality and values that have made it successful. A key part of this growth strategy involves reinvesting profits back into the business to ensure sustainable expansion.
Zoul’s Corner’s impact is not just confined to business achievements. Through its “Sharing is Caring” initiative, the brand demonstrates a deep commitment to social responsibility by distributing hundreds of free Ayam Penyet meals to those in need each quarter. The company’s generosity was particularly evident during its grand opening, where it exceeded its goal by serving 640 free meals to the community, an act that highlights the company’s core belief in giving back to society.
Mr Azhar’s leadership has evolved from managing the kitchen to steering the strategic direction of the company, supported by a dedicated team of middle managers. With his focus now on innovation and growth, he is preparing Zoul’s Corner for its next phase of success. Networking with seasoned entrepreneurs and leveraging platforms such as BNI Singapore has further equipped him with insights into scaling a business, including exploring franchising opportunities and efficient operational models.
A unique feature of Zoul’s Corner’s approach to business is Mr Azhar’s philosophy of viewing competitors not as adversaries, but as collaborators. By exchanging knowledge and insights with other businesses, Zoul’s Corner has cultivated a healthy, growth-focused competitive environment. This mindset has allowed the company to stay adaptable and remain ahead of market trends, all while maintaining a low-investment, high-return business model.
In addition to its community outreach, Zoul’s Corner uses data-driven strategies to optimize operations. The implementation of real-time sales tracking through POS systems has enabled the company to make timely, informed decisions that drive growth, particularly in terms of promotions and product offerings. This data-centric approach has allowed Zoul’s Corner to remain competitive and relevant in an ever- changing market.
Looking ahead, Mr Azhar is focused on ensuring Zoul’s Corner becomes a franchise- ready brand. By fine-tuning its operational systems and SOPs, he is creating a scalable business model that can thrive in the hands of future franchisees. This vision not only ensures the brand’s longevity but also allows Zoul’s Corner to spread its values of quality, community, and innovation far beyond Singapore’s borders.
The recent awards reflect more than just business success—they are a celebration of Zoul’s Corner’s commitment to its values. From a small hawker stall to a celebrated brand, Zoul’s Corner exemplifies the power of hard work, resilience, and a clear vision. As the company continues to expand, it is poised to leave an indelible mark on the F&B industry, inspiring others to follow in its footsteps.
