Vending

Singapore vending business collapse leaves investors facing millions in losses

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August 17, 2026

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More than 40 investors in Singapore reportedly invested as much as $4 million in Nozomii Vending and related ventures operated by Lim Jian Bin, also known as Takeshi Lim, before payments to investors slowed and eventually stopped, according to a Straits Times report. Lim had promoted himself as a former private-hire driver turned businessman with investments in more than 500 vending machines and commercial properties. Investors were offered annual returns ranging from 5% to 10%, and some said they borrowed money to participate.

One investor, financial adviser Kevin Lin, said he invested $484,300 beginning in 2023, including more than $291,000 obtained through bank loans. He said payments initially arrived as promised, but began falling short in February 2026 and later stopped. Other investors reported similar experiences, with some saying they remain owed six-figure amounts. Lim was declared bankrupt on July 14, and Singapore police confirmed receiving multiple reports and said an investigation is underway.

The case comes amid significant growth in Singapore's vending industry. Euromonitor International data cited in the report showed vending-machine sales reached $117 million in 2024, up from $100 million in 2019, with more than 100,000 machines estimated to be operating in the country. Reshmi Khurana of AlixPartners said investors should conduct thorough due diligence rather than relying on outward signs of success, including luxury cars or other displays of wealth, and should examine a business operator's track record, advisers and previous ventures before investing.