After the storm, calmer waters now

RASEL Catering generates millions in turnover these days, but it has had its share of bad bets and low periods. In 2003, the homegrown caterer tried its hand at operating restaurants and opened two outlets.

The co-owners, Alan Tan and Chris Loh, found out soon after that running restaurants was "a different ball game" from catering.

That period coincided with the Sars outbreak, which added to their difficulties; the two restaurants were shuttered a year later.