Throughout the sporadic lockdowns since March 2020, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) nationwide were gravely affected.
As a result, many were forced to close permanently due to dwindling income and soaring living costs.
However, with the advent of silver platforms, some are beginning to see a light at the tunnel. One such individual was Zulrushdi Ismail, who owns Warung Mercik – Kambing Bakar.
Initially, the restaurant was a source of extra wages, but he decided to take over the business in 2016 after witnessing immense growth and positive feedback from customers.
Warung Mercik – Kambing Bakar serves a fusion of Western and Asian cuisines for breakfast and lunch.
Our famous dishes include nasi kambing bakar with sambal air asam utara and our assorted burgers.
Digitalization is key
Unfortunately, the pandemic came crashing and posed numerous challenges for SMEs, including Warung Mercik – Kambing Bakar.
When MCO first started, we experienced a 70% drop in sales due to dine-in restrictions.
Thankfully, Zulrushdi had signed up on GrabFood back in 2018 and attributed it as the reason that helped the business to stay afloat.
“We were fortunate that our regulars chose to support us by ordering via GrabFood.”
Zulrushdi also said that the restaurant saw a significant increase in orders.
Grab’s ongoing promotions, particularly the Peniaga Kecil campaign have increased our orders by almost 3.5 times!
Thanking the frontliners
To thank the true heroes of the pandemic, Warung Mercik – Kambing Bakar gave out packets of free food to frontliners as a token of appreciation.
The restaurant is also looking to collaborate with companies and corporations through the “Pay4Frontliners” program.
We just want to make them smile after working 24/7 to keep Malaysians safe against COVID-19,” said Zulrushdi.
Timely advice
Zulrushdi urged struggling business owners to not give up despite the difficult circumstances during the pandemic.
Running a business is based on trial and error – you need to make the most out of all the chances and innovate when necessary.
He also encouraged them to embrace technology and shift their business to online platforms as it is the way forward.
To support Warung Mercik – Kambing Bakar, you can head over to the following address or make an order through GrabFood!
Address: Jalan Sepah Puteri 5/21, Kota Damansara, 47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact number: 012-5341659
Cover images from BCW Global
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
