Breaking Bread: An Interview with Dave Acton
Originally published in SINGAPORE Magazine 2019 Issue 1 By Cara Yap | Illustration by Ken Lee
Introduction
Dave Acton, the newly appointed CEO of homegrown fast-food chain 4FINGERS, shares his thoughts on food diplomacy and Singapore’s culinary scene1.
Food Diplomacy
For Canadian Dave Acton, sharing a meal is a form of diplomacy. He believes that breaking bread with someone helps break down barriers and accelerates relationships more effectively than meetings and phone calls.
Career Journey
Acton started his career over 30 years ago at Pizza Hut in Canada and later became the Area Vice President of International Dairy Queen. He moved to Singapore in 2012 to set up Dairy Queen’s regional office2.
Cultural Integration
Acton emphasizes the importance of communal dining in forming common ground across cultures3. He shares his experiences of adapting to life in Singapore, including his first taste of frog porridge at a hawker centre.
Hawker Culture
Acton supports Singapore’s efforts to nominate its hawker culture for UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. He appreciates the unique aspects of hawker centres and their role in keeping neighborhoods cohesive.
Culinary Scene
Over his six years in Singapore, Acton has observed an explosion of dining options4. He notes the creativity in the F&B scene and predicts that poorly run or branded concepts will eventually disappear.
Cultural Awareness
Acton admits that his understanding of Asian cultures has deepened since moving to Singapore. He has learned about various sub-ethnicities and their culinary traditions, which has enriched his appreciation for the local culture.
Professional Insights
In a professional setting, Acton has had to adjust to a different style of communication. He finds that sharing meals with colleagues helps bridge cultural divides and fosters better understanding.
Personal Adventures
Acton enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations in Southeast Asia on his motorcycle5. He shares his experiences of dining in rural villages and his favorite foods in Singapore, including laksa and Indian cuisine.
Conclusion
Dave Acton’s journey in Singapore highlights the power of food in bridging cultural gaps and forming meaningful connections.