Polar Bakery Celebrates 100 Years of Iconic Pastries in Singapore

Polar, a beloved name in Singaporean cuisine, marks a significant milestone as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. Known for its signature curry puffs, chicken pies, and sugar rolls, Polar has become a staple for many Singaporeans. The company’s legacy traces back to a café opened in 1926 by Dr Chan Kok Yew’s grandfather, which has evolved into a widespread brand with a rich history and a loyal customer base.

Tradition and Innovation Behind Iconic Products

Polar’s most famous product, the curry puff, boasts a closely guarded recipe stored behind a padlocked door at the company’s factory in Woodlands. Only Dr Chan Kok Yew, the third-generation executive chairman, has access to this “Curry Room.” Dr Chan, a trained medical doctor, ensures that each batch maintains the same flavor that has delighted customers for decades.

Interestingly, the puff pastry recipe originated from a card game wager with a French chef, as shared by Dr Chan. While he reflects on the family lore with a mix of amusement and pride, the essence of the recipe has remained integral to Polar’s identity. “My uncle was quite good at card games,” he said, adding a personal touch to the brand’s narrative.

Today, Polar operates 37 outlets across Singapore, along with another 200 points of sale in petrol stations, supermarkets, and convenience stores. The company also contributes to social initiatives, having opened a factory in Changi Prison more than 20 years ago to employ inmates as part of the Yellow Ribbon Project.

A Century of Change and Challenges

Dr Chan’s grandfather opened the original café on High Street, at a time when the 1920s were characterized by a vibrant café culture. This establishment was one of the few that offered ice cream sundaes, attracting a diverse clientele that included notable figures like former Deputy Prime Minister Goh Keng Swee. The café became a popular meeting place, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious offerings.

Despite the challenges posed by the Japanese Occupation during World War II, Polar Café survived and continued to serve its community. However, in 1986, the café closed when the government reclaimed the land for Parliament House, prompting a nostalgic farewell from the public.

In 1987, Polar effectively reinvented itself by reopening as a kiosk near Raffles Place MRT. The demand for their pastries soared as customers eagerly queued for the much-missed curry puffs. The kiosk model proved successful, allowing for on-site baking and a convenient grab-and-go format.

As the business expanded, new products like sugar rolls and chicken pies were introduced, with sugar rolls now emerging as Polar’s top-selling item. The company sells over 1 million sugar rolls annually as part of a total exceeding 4 million pastries and cakes each year. Dr Chan reflects on the brand’s early innovations, such as the introduction of character-themed birthday cakes, which have become a nostalgic favorite among many.

Nevertheless, with growth comes challenges. Rising costs for manpower, rent, and raw materials have impacted pricing, with the once modest curry puff now retailing at S$2.80 (approximately US$2.18). Dr Chan emphasizes the importance of maintaining affordability while navigating these rising costs. “We try very hard to keep it down as much as possible. You want people to enjoy your products,” he stated.

The competitive landscape is changing too, with new dessert shops and bakeries emerging regularly. Dr Chan views this competition as beneficial, as it encourages continuous improvement and innovation. Polar’s marketing team actively monitors trends to inform product development, although attempts to introduce healthier options have met with mixed success.

Looking to the Future

As Polar steps into its next century, Dr Chan remains optimistic about the brand’s longevity and the importance of its heritage. The company recently opened its first Malaysian outlet in Penang and plans to expand further into Kuala Lumpur. However, the question of succession looms large for Dr Chan. He believes that successful management is not solely about family ties; it requires capable leadership regardless of personal connections.

“If my children don’t want the business, it continues without them,” he said pragmatically. The focus, he insists, must remain on finding qualified individuals to support Polar’s legacy. With a century of history behind it, Polar is poised to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving market, ensuring that its iconic pastries continue to delight future generations.