“South Sea” whispers opportunity. That’s the meaning behind Lam Yeo Coffee Powder. We are standing in front of a Singaporean coffee institution. Lam Yeo Coffee Powder Factory has been around since 1959.
Lam Yeo specializes in traditional Singaporean kopi and modern gourmet coffee. Tan Thian Kang founded Lam Yeo. He was once an assistant editor at Nanyang Siang Pau. Tan’s inspiration came from working at a coffee factory. He wanted to sell only the best handpicked beans.
Tan started humbly. He sold beans door-to-door from his van. People loved the quality. The business grew steadily. Tan credited his success to three skills. He knew how to harvest the best beans. He knew how to roast them properly. He was skilled in creating original blends.
Lam Yeo is still at its original location on Balestier Road. Benny Tan Peck Hoe is the third-generation owner. Over the years, Lam Yeo has remained profitable. They focus on product quality and variety.
In 1960, Lam Yeo officially registered as Lam Yeo Coffee Powder Factory. To celebrate, Khian Kang offered a promotion. Customers got free condensed milk and sugar with every kati of coffee powder purchased. He also introduced gift redemption cards.
Lam Yeo sells roasted specialty coffee beans and coffee blends. They source both Robusta and Arabica beans. The beans are roasted offsite in Kallang. They are then brought to the shop for sale. Customers can choose their preferred grind. Lam Yeo has redesigned its packaging. It appeals to modern consumers.
Benny introduced specialty coffee beans from overseas. He uses Facebook to share information. He posts about the origin, process, and flavor of the beans.
Lam Yeo offers two categories of coffee blends. There are Legacy Blends and Specialty Blends. Specialty Blends use beans from Brazil, Columbia, and Ethiopia.
The Legacy Blend is called “Lam Yeo Traditional Blend – Motor Car Brand Coffee Mixture”. This recipe dates back to 1950. It uses Indonesian beans. It is roasted in a traditional Nanyang style. This style uses 80 percent coffee and 20 percent sugar and margarine. The brewed mixture is thick. It is a favorite among coffee shop owners.
Lam Yeo balances tradition and innovation. They honor the past while embracing the future of coffee.