Tag: Hong Kong

Hong Kong – Coca-Cola in Hong Kong, represented by The Coca-Cola Company and its bottling partner Swire Coca-Cola, has become a Founding Partner of Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), solidifying its commitment to enhancing visitor experiences with refreshing beverage offerings.

Coca-Cola in Hong Kong will offer its full beverage portfolio at Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), supporting the venue’s efforts to deliver world-class sports, cultural, and entertainment experiences. The partnership also reflects Coca-Cola’s commitment to the local community and Hong Kong’s growing mega-event economy.

John Sharkey, chief executive officer at KTSP, shared, “We are delighted to welcome Coca-Cola in Hong Kong as a founding partner. This partnership aligns with our vision to be an iconic, world-class venue that brings together people from around the world to create magical moments by delivering exhilarating and memorable sports, entertainment, and cultural experiences.”

Sharkey continued, “KTSP is also a hub for our local community’s enjoyment, and Coca-Cola’s commitment to uplifting visitors and supporting sustainability initiatives makes them an ideal partner for KTSP’s journey of inspiring visitors to enjoy and explore. There’s truly something for everyone.”

As a Founding Partner of KTSP, Coca-Cola will offer a range of beverages, introduce interactive experiences, and support sustainability initiatives to enhance the visitor experience.

Coca-Cola in Hong Kong will provide a diverse selection of beverages at Kai Tak Sports Park, including sparkling drinks such as Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and Schweppes, as well as unsweetened and sweetened teas, bottled water, sports drinks, and energy drinks. This ensures that visitors have access to a variety of refreshments throughout the venue.

To make beverages easily accessible, Coca-Cola will install hundreds of coolers, fountain dispensers, and vending units across KTSP. Whether in the main stadium, concessions, or event spaces, visitors can conveniently find their preferred drinks while enjoying performances, sporting events, or the Hong Kong Sevens.

As part of the partnership, Coca-Cola will also have a strong presence throughout the venue. From main gates “presented by Coca-Cola” to on-site signage and digital advertising, the brand will be seamlessly integrated into the park’s environment.

Additionally, Coca-Cola will receive activation rights, exclusive access to designated areas, and hospitality benefits. These sponsorship elements ensure a visible role for Coca-Cola at KTSP while providing visitors with convenient access to its beverage offerings.

Karlijn in ‘t Veld, vice president of franchise operations for Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau & Mongolia at The Coca-Cola Company, commented, “Kai Tak Sports Park is set to become a landmark destination for sportainment in Hong Kong, and as a leading beverage company, we are honoured to be part of this once-in-a-generation establishment.”

“We have been crafting strong and loved brands that create hundreds of thousands of refreshing moments every day for Hong Kong. As the city rises to become ‘Asia’s Events Capital’, we, building on our legacy and strength, look forward to creating magical moments and incredible experiences for millions of visitors to Kai Tak Sports Park, while promoting sports, entertainment, tourism, and hospitality in the city,” she added. 

Richard Gould, general manager at Swire Coca-Cola HK, also shared, “At Swire Coca-Cola, we are proud to work hand in hand with The Coca-Cola Company to bring an exciting range of beverages to our community. Our dedicated team is passionate about creating refreshing and memorable experiences for all visitors to Kai Tak Sports Park – by providing the perfect drink for every moment.”

Meanwhile, building on its 20-year partnership with HK China Rugby, Coca-Cola has extended its role as a ‘Tournament Partner’ and exclusive non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverage supplier for the Hong Kong Sevens, which debuts at Kai Tak Sports Park from March 28 to 30. The company also continues its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

“Great partnerships go beyond business – they create meaningful community impact. As we bring refreshing beverages to KTSP and inject excitement into the various activities in the park, we are also committed to a greener Hong Kong. Together, we will drive progress in waste management, people empowerment and community engagement,” Karlijn enthused.

Coca-Cola in Hong Kong is the latest partner to join KTSP, following the recent announcement of Marriott Bonvoy and a growing roster of partners, including DHL Express, CTF Life, Carlsberg, and Cathay Pacific.

Hong Kong – Marriott Bonvoy, the travel loyalty programme of Marriott International, has signed a multi-year agreement to become the exclusive Founding Hotel Partner of Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), Hong Kong’s largest sports and entertainment landmark.

As the exclusive Founding Hotel Partner, Marriott Bonvoy will collaborate with KTSP to advance sports, culture, and tourism in Hong Kong, showcasing the city’s world-class events to a global audience.

Commenting on the partnership, John Sharkey, chief executive officer of KTSP, said, “We are delighted to welcome Marriott Bonvoy as the exclusive Founding Hotel Partner at Kai Tak Sports Park. This partnership sets new standards for world-class hospitality and entertainment. Together with Marriott Bonvoy, we will continue to deliver exhilarating and memorable experiences for the enjoyment of Hong Kong, Asia and the world. In turn, we will provide unique and extraordinary moments to Marriott Bonvoy’s guests and members.”

KTSP is set to become Hong Kong’s premier destination for major international sports, entertainment, and cultural events. Through this partnership, Marriott Bonvoy members and guests can access a curated selection of immersive and unforgettable experiences in the city via the Marriott Bonvoy Moments platform.

Betty Tian, managing vice president of customer for Greater China at Marriott International, said, “We are excited to partner with Kai Tak Sports Park to offer guests and members once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Hong Kong’s latest hub for culture, entertainment and sports.”

“Marriott Bonvoy strives to inspire how people want to live their lives and travel. We look forward to working with KTSP to support Hong Kong’s vibrant events scene and amplify its success on the world stage,” she added.

Marriott Bonvoy joins a growing list of major partners recently announced by KTSP, including DHL Express, CTF Life, Carlsberg, and Cathay Pacific.

Hong Kong – Japanese beauty brand SHISEIDO has launched a new branding campaign in Hong Kong, highlighting resilience and strength as part of the rollout for the latest iteration of its Ultimune serum.

The #FullBloomBeauty campaign, developed for the Hong Kong market, was created in collaboration with creative agency Omelette Digital, media agency iProspect, and digital agency Pontac. It is also part of SHISEIDO’s global creative platform, “Freedom From Age.”

The campaign presents SHISEIDO’s camellia as a symbol of resilience, flourishing even in challenging conditions. It also features the latest version of Ultimune, which incorporates the company’s Power Fermented Camellia+ technology. This formulation, designed to support skin immunity, targets ageing skin cells using a memory T cell approach aimed at promoting a more revitalised appearance.

“The term ‘全盛期’ has traditionally been used to define the peak era of an individual. It is our privilege to bring a twist to this concept, reminding consumers that beauty knows no age. Everyone can radiate with full-bloom beauty at the best of their age as they unleash their inner resilience,” said Andrea Choi, creative director of Omelette Digital.

As part of the campaign, SHISEIDO also extends its collaboration with Keung To, Anson Lo, Ian Chan, and Edan Lui of Hong Kong boy band MIRROR, who have been brand endorsers for several years.

The campaign features MIRROR members in a story video reflecting on the resilience of the camellia and how it resonates with their personal journeys. Additionally, a series of individual videos highlights each member’s perspective on resilience and their experiences with the latest Ultimune serum.

To extend the campaign’s reach, SHISEIDO has rolled out a series of out-of-home (OOH) advertisements across Hong Kong, reinforcing the #FullBloomBeauty message. The campaign also includes exclusive MIRROR-themed collectibles, available with purchases, offering fans a connection to both the brand and the boy band.

SHISEIDO also launched a series of teaser videos featuring MIRROR members looking toward the iconic IFC building as camellias bloom in the background. These visuals set the stage for an upcoming SHISEIDO pop-up event, inviting beauty enthusiasts to take part in the celebration of resilience and beauty.

Gloria Ho, president and managing director of Shiseido Hong Kong, said, “New Ultimune is our latest science-backed innovation, backed by over 30 years of research, bringing SHISEIDO’s over-the-century Art & Science together. By highlighting Camellia’s resilience story, we aim to inspire and engage local consumers, demonstrating how our product embodies inner strength and vitality, echoing Shiseido’s corporate mission “Beauty Innovation For A Better World.” This branding campaign, combined with our omnichannel marketing strategy, will create a unique and immersive experience for our customers.”

Hong Kong – HSBC Credit Card has unveiled the “Red Hot Chef” reality show, marking Hong Kong’s first bank-led initiative to champion the local dining industry.

HSBC will invite submissions from eligible local restaurants for the reality cooking show, selecting eight skilled chefs through an open audition to compete in the culinary contest.

The reality show aims to crown the “Red Hot Chef” by highlighting participants’ culinary skills and creativity. Through this platform, local restaurants gain exposure, with the hope of encouraging more diners to support Hong Kong’s vibrant F&B industry.

Partnering with Chef Anh Sung-jae, head chef of Mosu Seoul and Mosu Hong Kong, and a judge on Culinary Class Wars, the reality show gives finalists the opportunity to engage with Chef Anh and compete for a HK$1 million restaurant promotional package to boost their marketing and growth.

Deeply connected to Hong Kong’s dining culture, Chef Anh draws inspiration from a character in a classic Hong Kong film. Through this collaboration, he hopes to inspire local chefs, guiding them to elevate their culinary journeys in this unique and transformative experience.

Cheuk Shum, managing director and head of marketing for wealth and personal banking at HSBC Hong Kong, said, “Dining is a key spending category for our customers, and we are dedicated to offering our customers extraordinary culinary adventures through our exclusive dining privileges. With the core vision of this campaign—Taste Red Hot, Back Your Favourite—we are excited to collaborate with Chef Anh to connect our customers with Hong Kong’s hidden culinary gems.” 

He continued, “We are not just promoting exceptional restaurants; we are igniting a passion for the distinctive tastes of our community. This campaign promises to benefit both our valued customers and local eateries. Experience the excitement, taste the difference, and savour the best of our city together! ”

HSBC is accepting applications from eligible local restaurants for the “Red Hot Chef” reality show until 30 April 2025.

Hong Kong – HSBC One has joined forces with local designer brand ‘Offgod:Tate’ to launch a limited-edition fashion collection, “HSBC One x Offgod:Tate,” set to debut exclusively at ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025. The collaboration will also introduce Asia’s first-ever Esports Zone, blending the worlds of fashion and gaming in a bold showcase.

In collaboration with Offgod:Tate, a local Gen Z artist duo consisting of Tate Mok and Andrew Mok, HSBC One’s new collection delves into the esports universe, tracing the transformation of their character ‘Skully’ into the robotic ‘Machine Skull.’ Inspired by ergonomic gaming devices, controllers, and sci-fi mechas like Gundam and Maschinen Krieger, the design embodies a bold and imaginative aesthetic.

The collection includes nine items, such as a graphic tee, esports jersey, and 3D headphone accessories. Local trendsetters Nancy Kwai and Gordon Flanders showcase the pieces’ versatility against the backdrop of the HSBC Main Building.

Designers Tate Mok and Andrew Mok expressed, “HSBC One aligns with us on our penchant for exploration in multiple disciplines. We are grateful for the creative freedom provided in this partnership, which has challenged us to think outside the box.” 

“Our headphone sculpture for this collection is designed in a newfound format, and we designed each piece of items with a lot of attention paid to the material, patchwork, silhouettes, and even the exact shade of red used. Everything has been thought out and put into the design with intention,” the designers added. 

Alongside the debut of its new collection, HSBC One aims to offer local esports fans more exclusive opportunities this year through its partnership with ComplexCon.

Building on last year’s successful collaboration with top esports names like T1 and Faker, HSBC One has announced plans to bring South Korean League of Legends esports team Gen.G to Hong Kong.

Members of the Korean LCK team Gen.G Esports—Kiin, Canyon, Chovy, Ruler, and Duro—are set to make their Hong Kong debut at the HSBC One Esports Zone. They will take part in matches and interact with fans. 

The ‘ComplexCon LoL Cup’ tournament, scheduled for March 22-23, will give local League of Legends players the chance to compete for an opportunity to challenge Gen.G, creating a platform for esports enthusiasts to experience live competitive gaming.

Funded by the Mega ACE Fund, ComplexCon Hong Kong will run from March 21 to 23, 2025, at AsiaWorld Expo, showcasing street fashion, art, music, and global pop culture. The HSBC One x Offgod:Tate collection will be sold exclusively at the Complex Marketplace. A 3-meter ‘Machine Skull’ installation at the HSBC One Esports Zone will highlight the collaboration’s design.

Hong Kong – DHL Express has been named the official partner of the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), a collaboration aimed at attracting large-scale sports and entertainment events to Hong Kong and bolstering the city’s reputation as a leading hub for mega events in Asia.

Under the partnership, DHL will assist KTSP in hosting a diverse range of international sports and entertainment events in Hong Kong. The collaboration also boosts DHL’s brand presence both locally and globally.

This partnership strengthens DHL’s commitment to the sports and entertainment industry, both locally and globally. With experience supporting events like Formula 1, Formula E, and Manchester United, DHL connects fans worldwide. In Hong Kong, it partners with Hong Kong China Rugby to nurture local talent for the global stage.

“We are delighted that DHL Express is our official partner. We look forward to enhancing the experience of our world-class mega events together. With KTSP as Hong Kong’s home venue, we are committed to bringing more international sports, cultural, and entertainment events to Hong Kong, further transforming the city into an event capital and creating new growth opportunities,” said John Sharkey, CEO of KTSP.

KTSP will host Coldplay’s ‘Music Of The Spheres’ World Tour in April, one of the venue’s key events for 2025. As the official logistics partner, DHL will support the band’s sustainability model by helping reduce transport emissions through initiatives that cut carbon emissions, minimise consumption, and promote green technology.

Andy Chiang, senior vice president and managing director at DHL Express Hong Kong and Macau, said, “DHL Express is honoured to be the Official Partner of KTSP. This underscores our long-term commitment to Hong Kong’s development.” 

Chiang continued, “In line with our purpose of ‘Connecting People, Improving Lives,’ we are excited to support KTSP in hosting world-class, large-scale events. Through our shared values of innovation and mission to promote Hong Kong as a hub for live events, we will connect local and international audiences with their favourite sports teams, athletes, and artists. We believe we can better position Hong Kong as an attractive destination for the sports, cultural, arts, and music lovers.” 

Officially opened on 1 March 2025, Kai Tak Sports Park is Hong Kong’s largest integrated sports and entertainment landmark. In addition to DHL Express, KTSP has partnered with major brands like CTF Life, Carlsberg, and Cathay Pacific.

Hong Kong – Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com is reportedly set to expand into the Hong Kong market with the launch of its offline flagship store, ‘JD Mall,’ offering an immersive retail experience.

According to a report by local media Ming Pao, JD Mall in Hong Kong is expected to mirror its mainland China counterpart, with a primary focus on home appliances.

Ming Pao also cited sources revealing that since the fourth quarter of last year, JD.com has been actively recruiting employees, offering high salaries to attract talent from Hong Kong’s electrical appliance retail industry as part of its plan to establish physical stores in the city.

Additionally, the report stated that JD Property Development, a subsidiary of JD.com, acquired the entire Li Fung Centre in Sha Tin last year. Meanwhile, related companies have moved into Jardine House in Central, signalling preparations for JD.com’s entry into the Hong Kong market.

Ming Pao also reported that JD.com’s subsidiary, Beijing Jingdong 360 Electronic Commerce Co., Ltd., applied for the trademarks of its instant delivery brands in Hong Kong last December. However, JD.com stated to the local media that there are currently no plans to develop ‘Dada,’ ‘Seconds Delivery,’ or related food delivery services in Hong Kong.

JD.com’s reported entry into Hong Kong comes after Alibaba’s Taobao Hong Kong launched its first furniture and home goods store in Tsim Sha Tsui, signalling a growing push by major mainland e-commerce giants into the city’s market.

Hong Kong – Hearts & Science, an Omnicom Media Group agency, has secured the media business for AS Watson in Hong Kong following a competitive pitch, MARKETECH APAC learnt.

Effective 1 March 2025, Hearts & Science assumed responsibility for all media duties, covering both online and offline channels.

The pitch, reportedly held in the second half of 2024, saw participation from multiple agencies, including incumbent dentsu.

This appointment comes on the heels of the agency’s recent win with Warner Bros. Discovery, where it was named the media agency of record for WBD’s Theatrical and Streaming divisions across multiple Asia Pacific markets.

Earlier this year, OMG also appointed Rochelle Chhaya as APAC CEO of Hearts & Science, leading its regional expansion, including launches in Malaysia and Taiwan in Q1 2025.

Hong Kong – British food delivery platform Deliveroo is exiting the Hong Kong market after serving Hongkongers for over nine years. In a recent disclosure, Deliveroo has confirmed the market exit, and is selling several of its corporate assets to rival platform foodpanda, while the rest of the assets will be closed.

Deliveroo Hong Kong has nominated liquidators to manage the closure of the Hong Kong business and the remainder of its assets in the most efficient way possible. In a report from SCMP, Deliveroo has nominated Cosimo Borrelli and Kroll’s Jocelyn Chi to manage the closure of its business locally.

The platform noted that in 2024, Hong Kong represented 5% of Group GTV and had a 5 percentage point negative impact on International GTV growth.

“There are several dynamics specific to the Hong Kong market which led the Board to consider strategic options and, given the Group’s commitment to disciplined capital allocation, determine that it would not serve shareholders’ best interests to continue to operate in Hong Kong,” the company said in a press statement.

Meanwhile, Eric French, chief operating officer at Deliveroo, commented, “We want to thank all our employees, consumers, riders and restaurant and grocery partners who have been involved in our operations in Hong Kong. We have been proud to serve so many people such amazing food over the past nine years.”

Deliveroo Hong Kong will remain live up until April 7 this year.

Meanwhile, Delivery Hero, foodpanda’s parent company, has confirmed that it is acquiring select assets from Deliveroo. 

Following this, Deliveroo customers and couriers in Hong Kong will be redirected, and certain vendors will be onboarded to the foodpanda platform. This will expand foodpanda’s offering, providing customers with access to a broader selection of restaurants and grocery businesses, including some previously only available on the Deliveroo platform. Vendors will also benefit from access to a larger customer base.

“Delivery Hero’s decision to further invest in Hong Kong reflects its commitment to maintain a sustainable delivery ecosystem that provides the best value for its foodpanda customers, couriers, and business partners,” the parent company said.

Competition in the food delivery space in APAC continues to be demanding, with Uber recently showing interest to buy foodpanda’s Taiwan business for $950m, only to be blocked by the country’s competition watchdog. On another note, there were several media reports as well that Grab is reportedly acquiring rival Indonesian platform GoTo, to which the latter has denied.

Hong Kong – CTF Life has been named the sole diamond sponsor of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) Grand Opening Ceremony, solidifying its role as the exclusive founding insurance partner of the sports and entertainment venue.

CTF Life marked the occasion at the main stadium, joined by its customers, life planners, partners, staff, and their families. The company’s branding was prominently visible throughout the event, reaching attendees at the venue as well as television and online audiences.

The partnership with KTSP reflects CTF Life’s ongoing support for local culture, sports, and tourism initiatives in alignment with the Hong Kong SAR Government’s efforts to promote community engagement beyond sports.

Man Kit IP, executive director and chief executive officer of CTF Life, said, “As the exclusive Founding Insurance Partner of KTSP and the proud Diamond Sponsor of its opening ceremony, we are truly making history with this significant milestone for both Hong Kong and CTF Life.” 

“Our collaboration with KTSP across multiple areas empowers local athletes and performers to unlock their full potential at Hong Kong’s largest integrated sports and entertainment landmark. The partnership will not only bring in world-class international events but also champion the ‘Sports for All’ culture, thus delivering exceptional and diverse experiences for our customers, fulfilling our promise to create value beyond insurance,” he added.

Earlier, the company announced its title sponsorship of the ‘Fencing Plus’ Training Programme by the Kai Tak Sports Initiative, which aims to support the development of young fencing athletes in Hong Kong.