
After 8 years in operation, unique dine in the dark experience NOX may be set to close its doors, due to their landlord disputing the validity of their renewal clause, and has demanded they vacate the premises by the end of June 2021.
“It’s extremely disappointing to be faced by this situation as we have battled through a very difficult period of lockdown and social distancing during the past 12 months. I started NOX – Dine In The Dark with consideration of the amazing skills the blind workforce can bring to such a unique dining experience for customers. We are currently communicating with our landlord and hopefully this can be resolved so that we can continue our operations,” says Jesper Gustafsson, owner and founder.
Since their launch in 2013, NOX has welcomed thousands of guests, both local and visitors from overseas, and have employed many staff over the years. One of NOX’s goals has been to serve as a form of social enterprise, by providing the visually impaired a second home. As such, all of their staff now run the risk of facing unemployment, should their lease not be renewed.
“Being able to work at NOX gives me a sense of purpose and belonging. It offers me a job which I love, and also the opportunity to share my story with all the guests to create Singapore awareness for the blind. I’m really worried about the future but I hope this can be solved,” shared Bernard Chew, host at NOX – Dine in the Dark.
As of now, NOX is seeking support from the public through increased visitorship, or new landlords to shift the experience to. For more information, visit their website here, and reach out to them via their email at contact@noxdineinthedark.com