All Eyes On: Nelson Yap

In this issue of All Eyes On, we caught up with Nelson Yap, 34, Managing Director of Benjamin Barker (Cathay Cineleisure Orchard), The Assembly Store and The Assembly Ground (The Cathay)!

WHAT WERE YOU LIKE AS A YOUTH?

Youth I recall was, sleeping at the back of the class, sometimes missing recess and waking up hungry and struggling for school to end. (Strongly do not recommend for youths to follow) Skateboarding, playing in bands, going to church and child labour in dad’s warehouse during school holidays.

TELL US ABOUT HOW YOUR BRAND GREW FROM BACK THEN TO NOW.

Benjamin Barker started out as a menswear label targeted at executives selling suits, shirts and shoes. We have since grown to incorporate a lot more lifestyle elements into the brand slowly introducing casual and seasonal wear. Ultimately, we aim to be a one stop shop for men with well curated products. Our products which focuses on evergreen classics are detailed with vintage and modern subtleties. We now have 9 outlets in Singapore and 1 more coming up in JEM in August 2016.

ANYONE WHO HAVE MADE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE THAT LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?

There really isn’t really one person that made a significant impact. The success of BB is attributed to the faithfulness of the founding team. Their humility, hunger for growth and positivity in the midst of hardship is what has carried us through tough times. And Success to me, is when a team sticks together during times and braves through it together. Growth internally will reflect growth externally.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUTHS WHO HAVE A DREAM TO SET UP THEIR BRAND/ BUSINESS?

Go for it! Make sure you surround yourself with supportive and honest people. It’s gonna be tough! But nothing great comes easy!