Notable Roles | - Co-founder & CEO, Sheng Siong Group Ltd. |
Key Recognition | - Public Service Medal (2006) |
Background and Early Foundations
Born in 1961 in Singapore, Lim Hock Chee is the fifth of nine children. He grew up in a family that operated a pig farm in Punggol. After completing a car mechanics course at Jurong Vocational Institute (now ITE College West), Lim joined the family business. In 1984, facing an oversupply of pork due to government plans to phase out pig farming, he and his wife rented a stall at Savewell Supermarket in Ang Mo Kio to sell chilled pork. When Savewell faced financial difficulties in 1985, Lim, with support from his father and brothers, purchased the outlet, marking the birth of Sheng Siong.
Career Milestones and Impact
Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
1985 | Founded Sheng Siong with his brothers, transitioning from pig farming to retail |
1995 | Opened third outlet in Woodlands, introducing "wet and dry" shopping concept |
2007 | Launched "The Sheng Siong Show" on Mediacorp Channel 8 |
2011 | Listed Sheng Siong Group on the Singapore Exchange |
2014 | Launched online shopping platform, expanding digital presence |
2017 | Opened first overseas store in Kunming, China |
2020 | Achieved significant profit growth during COVID-19 pandemic |
2022 | Personally worked at Commonwealth outlet during staff shortage due to COVID-19 |
- Net Worth: Estimated at US$1.35 billion (2024)
- Sheng Siong Stores: Over 70 outlets in Singapore and China
- Employees: Approximately 2,700
- Market Capitalization: Exceeds S$1.3 billion
Leadership Style and Influence
Lim Hock Chee is renowned for his hands-on leadership and deep commitment to employee welfare. He emphasizes efficiency, frugality, and community engagement. Under his guidance, Sheng Siong has implemented innovative practices such as electronic price labeling and hybrid self-checkout systems. Lim’s philosophy includes profit-sharing with staff, providing free meals, and supporting employees’ education, fostering a loyal and motivated workforce.
Legacy and Future Focus
From humble beginnings as a pig farmer’s son, Lim Hock Chee has built Sheng Siong into Singapore’s third-largest supermarket chain. His legacy is marked by resilience, innovation, and a people-centric approach. Looking ahead, Lim aims to expand Sheng Siong’s presence in new estates like Bidadari and Tengah, and further international growth, particularly in China.
