Tag: Hong Kong

Hong Kong – Carlsberg has signed a partnership agreement with Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), securing the rights as the venue’s official beer provider. 

As the official partner, Carlsberg will provide its beverages to visitors at the venue, aiming to enhance the overall event experience at KTSP. Beyond supplying beer, the partnership seeks to contribute to the atmosphere of the sports and entertainment hub.

Kai Tak Stadium will feature an advanced beer keg storage system and 266 taps across various beverage outlets, ensuring spectators have access to freshly poured Carlsberg beverages. The setup is part of the venue’s efforts to enhance the overall event experience.

Located on the second floor of the East Concourse, ‘THE CHAMPION’ is a standout feature of Kai Tak Stadium. Spanning 100 meters, it ranks among Asia’s longest sports bars and houses a quarter of the venue’s taps. Visitors can enjoy a range of draught options, including Carlsberg, 1664, Somersby, and Carlsberg 0.0, catering to diverse preferences.

Nathaniel Moxom, managing director of Carlsberg Hong Kong and Taiwan, said, “We are delighted to announce Carlsberg’s partnership with KTSP. By joining forces with KTSP, we are poised to enhance our brand presence and provide probably the best beer experiences for our international clientele.” 

Moxon added, “This partnership underscores our dedication to quality and innovation, reinforcing Carlsberg as the beer of choice for every occasion. We are excited about the potential brought by this collaboration and look forward to setting new benchmarks at KTSP with Carlsberg.”

John Sharkey, CEO of Kai Tak Sports Park, also shared, “Kai Tak Sports Park is delighted to announce our partnership with Hong Kong’s pre-eminent beer supplier, Carlsberg. Their commitment to the sports and entertainment sector is well-established and fits with reinforcing our home venue ambitions. We look forward to seeing the happy faces on our guests when they get a chance to enjoy Carlsberg’s products at KTSP in the years to come.”

Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) will open on 1 March 2025, hosting a range of major sports and entertainment events. The venue will welcome the Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens from 28 to 30 March, along with other international sports and music events. In November, KTSP will be one of the locations for the 15th National Games, marking the first time Hong Kong hosts competitions for the event.

Hong Kong – Hongkong Land, a property investment, management, and development group, has partnered with branding agency DNCO to refresh its corporate identity, highlighting its core strengths and long-standing presence in city centre developments.

As part of its brand refresh, DNCO updated Hongkong Land’s identity to emphasise its core values of excellence, innovation, and hospitality. Centered around the theme “experience is central,” the new branding reflects the company’s long-standing presence in Hong Kong’s Central district and its focus on customer experience and urban development.

DNCO introduced three core values for the team: “Always Forward” emphasises continuous innovation, “Think in Generations” highlights craftsmanship and sustainability, and “Be a Bridge” reflects a commitment to building connections, inspired by Hongkong Land’s pioneering walkway system.

The agency also updated Hongkong Land’s iconic ‘H’ symbol, originally designed by Henry Steiner, to align with digital advancements, introducing a three-dimensional design with motion while preserving its original intent.

The updated symbol features added depth and dimension, incorporating textures, overlays, and perspective shifts inspired by Hongkong Land’s bridges and elevated walkways. Combined with reportage-style photography, the design aims to reflect the dynamic nature of city centre spaces.

Meanwhile, DNCO selected ‘Univers’ for its historical connection to the company and ‘Noto’ for its global reach, supporting over 1,000 languages. The typography features a classic neutral base, complemented by accent colours to add energy and modernity to the corporate brand.

Michael Smith, chief executive at Hongkong Land, said, “DNCO has given us a brand language to elegantly articulate our strategy, alongside a visual identity that reflects the premium quality at the heart of everything we do.”

Founded in 1889, Hongkong Land has played a key role in shaping city centre destinations, from reclaiming land for Hong Kong’s Central district to establishing the first Mandarin Oriental. Under new leadership, the company refreshed its brand to reflect a more forward-looking approach. 

Hongkong Land’s brand refresh is being introduced through a campaign across Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and Shanghai. DNCO also conducted brand masterclasses for over 800 employees. A new brand tool and redesigned website are in development.

Hong Kong – DFI Retail Group (DFI) has unveiled key leadership appointments to strengthen its strategic direction and digital capabilities. Ella Chan has been named group chief strategy officer, while Wee Lee Loh will expand his role as group chief digital and yuu Rewards officer.

Starting 1 April 2025, Chan will lead corporate strategy, mergers and acquisitions, investor relations, and customer insights as group chief strategy officer.

Chan has over 20 years of experience in global strategy, transformation, and innovation within the retail and consumer sectors. She has held roles at Walmart in the US, China, and Hong Kong, focusing on business growth and operational improvements.

Chan has also led initiatives focused on driving sales growth, introducing digital innovations, and developing retail formats adapted to changing consumer preferences.

Meanwhile, in his expanded role as group chief digital and yuu Rewards officer, Loh will oversee yuu Rewards, retail analytics, and retail media.

Loh, who joined DFI in September 2023, has a background in digital transformation and e-commerce. In his expanded role, he will focus on utilising data-driven insights and digital tools to support customer engagement.

The appointments of Chan and Loh reflect DFI Retail Group’s focus on strengthening its leadership team to support strategic growth and operational development in the evolving retail sector.

Scott Price, group chief executive at DFI Retail Group, said, “We are pleased to welcome Ella to our leadership team and to expand Wee Lee’s responsibilities. I’m confident their leadership will further strengthen our ability to respond to evolving customer needs, empower our people, and deliver sustained value for our shareholders as we continue driving growth and innovation across the business.”

Hong Kong – VML Hong Kong has elevated Sandra Gin and Edward Ha to executive directors, entrusting them with spearheading regional and local market growth, respectively.

Gin, who joined the former Wunderman Thompson in 2020 as client services director, has been involved in expanding the regional and global business from the Hong Kong office. She has worked closely with major clients such as HSBC, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Nikon. 

Originally from Canada, Gin has experience at agencies including BBDO Toronto, FCB Toronto, Digitas Hong Kong, and Golin Hong Kong, with expertise across industries such as gaming, telecommunications, healthcare, hospitality, and finance.

Commenting on her new role, Gin said, “I’m incredibly excited to step into this expanded role at VML to further ignite our growth across Asia and beyond. We have the depth and breadth of capabilities to help our clients succeed and a brilliant team at VML ready to make it happen. I’m energised by the opportunity to further shape the future of our agency.”

Meanwhile, Ha brings two decades of advertising experience, blending entrepreneurial insight with multinational agency expertise. Before joining VML, he co-founded and led a boutique agency for eight years.

Ha’s experience across Hong Kong and mainland China has contributed to VML’s work with clients such as the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Endowus, and HSBC.

Talking about his new role, Ha said, The agency landscape is evolving rapidly with ongoing technological and societal changes. Leveraging my experience running a boutique agency, I aim to foster greater agility and maintain a sharp focus on clients’ needs, driving the agency forward alongside the VML leadership team.”

Both Gin and Ha will remain part of the leadership team, reporting directly to Maggie Wong, CEO of VML Hong Kong.

Commenting on the promotions, Wong shared, “Sandra and Edward are invaluable members of our management team. Their passion, commitment, and leadership have been crucial to our success, and I am thrilled to see them advance within the company. They have both laid a robust foundation for our growth in 2025 and beyond.”

Hong Kong – Coca-Cola staged its first-ever 600-drone light show over Victoria Harbour on Friday, marking the grand finale of its Chinese New Year campaign. The display featured 12 scenes depicting festive moments and local traditions, with live narration by actor and singer Louis Cheung.

The “Meet on 2.14: Together, Share Your Heartfelt Wishes with Coca-Cola” campaign at Ocean Terminal Deck, Harbour City, featured a series of festive events. It began with limited-edition packaging showcasing a fireworks design, followed by a lucky draw where winners enjoyed poon choi and a fireworks display aboard a vessel. The grand finale marked Hong Kong’s first-ever Coca-Cola drone show and the city’s first 600-drone performance launched from a barge on Victoria Harbour.

The drone show opened with 600 drones forming the iconic Coca-Cola® bottle, simulating a drink being poured into a glass. The display transitioned into scenes of local dining traditions, including fish balls, siu mai, hotpot gatherings, and celebratory toasts—evoking memories of shared meals and festive reunions. Actor and singer Louis Cheung narrated the performance, highlighting the joy of togetherness during family gatherings.

The show continued with the drones forming a globe and the red “福” (blessing) character, symbolising well-wishes for the new year. The finale featured a fireworks pattern inspired by Coca-Cola’s limited-edition Chinese New Year packaging, accompanied by the slogan “Blooming Blessings, Together Always” (綻放祝福 年一在起).

Distinguished guests at Coca-Cola’s drone show included Sally Cheng Wai Lee, senior frontline marketing director for Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, and Mongolia at Coca-Cola China Limited; Lily Chu Wai Shan, sales & marketing director at Swire Coca-Cola Hong Kong Limited; and Kitman Tang, executive director at Macau Coca-Cola Beverage Co. Ltd.

Alongside the drone show, Coca-Cola opened two limited-time installations at the “Blooming Blessings” check-in spots at Harbour City Ocean Terminal Deck. Visitors can create personalised blessing videos and take photos at the themed spots.

Hong Kong – DFI Retail Group has appointed retail veteran Yoep Man as the new chief executive officer of 7-Eleven for South China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore, effective immediately.

Yoep brings over 20 years of retail leadership in food and FMCG across Asia Pacific. Most recently, as Managing Director of Food in Singapore for DFI Retail Group, he led brands like Giant, Cold Storage, CS Fresh, and Jason’s Deli, driving financial growth, operational efficiencies, and stronger market positioning despite a challenging retail landscape.

Throughout his career, Yoep also played key roles in advancing business growth and operational success, including supporting the growth of Sam’s Club business at Walmart China and the expansion of Dutch-based retailer SPAR into China, Indonesia, Thailand and Mongolia.

In his new role at the Group, Yoep will steer the strategic direction and operations of 7-Eleven across the four key markets, driving innovation and growth to meet changing customer needs.

Additionally, Yoep will also join the Group’s Management Committee, contributing to the organisation’s broader leadership.

Commenting on his appointment, Yoep said, “I am excited to have the privilege to support 7-Eleven’s growth and ambitions in the markets we serve. I look forward to working with our teams and partners to deliver greater convenience, value and innovative experiences for our customers.”

Yoep’s appointment comes as 7-Eleven experiences robust growth, driven by the expanding ready-to-eat market and ongoing digital advancements to enhance customer experiences.

Scott Price, chief executive officer of DFI Retail Group, commented, “We are pleased to appoint Yoep as CEO of 7-Eleven for South China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore. His appointment aligns perfectly with our customer-first approach, given his proven ability to enhance customer experiences and drive innovation.” 

Price continues, “Yoep’s success in leading our food business in Singapore, coupled with his deep understanding of the Asian retail landscape, positions him well to accelerate 7-Eleven’s growth. His expertise in digital transformation and operational excellence will be crucial in evolving our convenience retail offerings to meet and exceed customer expectations across these key markets.”

Hong Kong – DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (DBS Hong Kong) has introduced ‘DBS Culinary Delights,’ a new marketing and customer engagement initiative designed to offer exclusive, curated dining experiences for its wealth clients.

DBS Culinary Delights celebrates the art of gastronomy, offering DBS’ wealth clients exclusive access to Hong Kong’s finest culinary experiences in a city renowned as a gourmet paradise for both locals and tourists.

For this initiative, DBS enlisted acclaimed Chef Edward Lee, renowned for his appearance on Culinary Class War and his innovative fusion of Asian and Western cuisines. A recipient of numerous accolades from prestigious culinary organisations, Chef Lee will debut ‘DBS Culinary Delights,’ bringing his signature creativity to the exclusive dining experience.

In collaboration with DBS and Tatler, Chef Lee will visit Hong Kong in March for the inaugural DBS Culinary Delights event, ARTable, which blends gastronomy with artistic expression. The event aims to offer a unique dining experience that reflects Chef Lee’s innovative approach to cuisine.

Sebastian Paredes, head of North Asia and chief executive officer at DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, said, “DBS has grown substantially in the wealth management space over the years. As a customer-centric and relationship-focused bank, we focus on delighting our customers by creating the best-in-class customer journeys and giving them an experience beyond banking.”

“We look forward to connecting with our clients meaningfully, and this unprecedented collaboration shall deliver fresh and exceptional dining experiences for our esteemed clientele – aligning with the global trend – eating well, eating differently while indulging in culinary art,” Paredes added.

The launch of Culinary Delights reflects DBS’s focus on evolving customer trends. With wealth clients becoming more selective and aspirational, the bank aims to offer more personalised experiences and tailored services.

Hong Kong – AS Watson Group has appointed Clarice Au as the new chief executive officer of retail Hong Kong, entrusting her with the leadership of its four retail businesses in the city.

Effective 1 March 2025, Au will be responsible for overseeing the management of AS Watson’s four diverse retail businesses in Hong Kong, namely Watsons, PARKnSHOP, Fortress, and Watson’s Wine. 

Speaking about her new role, Au said, “I am deeply honoured to take on the role of CEO of Retail Hong Kong at AS Watson. Since joining the company in 1998, I’ve had the privilege of working across diverse business areas, from airport retail to leading the Fortress team and, more recently, overseeing the MoneyBack loyalty program. These experiences have shaped my passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and fostering innovation.” 

“Looking ahead, my priority will be to build on our strong business foundation while harnessing the talents of our combined teams, as well as close collaboration with our business partners to elevate the customer experience across our network of over 500 O+O stores. As Hong Kong’s retail landscape evolves rapidly, it is essential for us to remain agile and continuously embrace transformation to seize new opportunities and stay ahead,” she added. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Malina Ngai, group CEO of AS Watson, commented, “With over 20 years of extensive management experience at AS Watson, Clarice has consistently demonstrated remarkable leadership. She has been instrumental in driving digital transformation and advancing the growth of both the Fortress retail chain and the MoneyBack multi-brand loyalty program. I am excited to have her expertise guiding our retail businesses in Hong Kong into the future.”

U.S.A – Lee Kum Kee has teamed up with Grey Hong Kong to launch its first-ever U.S. campaign, aiming to build brand awareness and highlight the multilayered flavours of its signature Chili Crisp Oil to American audiences.

Titled ‘Deliciously Complicated,’ the campaign introduces U.S. audiences to the layered flavours of Lee Kum Kee’s Chili Crisp Oil and how it can enhance simple meals.

The campaign video opens with the question, “What’s this?” and answers with, “It’s complicated.” It takes viewers through the product’s layers, from crispy chili to savoury sesame, highlighting its ability to add depth to everyday dishes.

Lee Kum Kee and Grey Hong Kong have focused on platforms like Connected TV, YouTube Pre-roll, and Walmart.com to increase visibility and engagement. Additional visuals and digital banners encourage audiences to share their interpretations of the product’s complex flavour.

Elaine Thai, vice president of marketing at Lee Kum Kee U.S., shared, “For over a century, Lee Kum Kee has brought authentic Asian flavours to kitchens worldwide. Chili Crisp Oil builds on that legacy with a flavour profile that is anything but ordinary. This campaign invites U.S. audiences to discover its layers and elevate their everyday meals.”

This marks Lee Kum Kee and Grey Hong Kong’s first multilayered U.S. campaign. Their collaboration began with successful campaigns in Hong Kong, including the ‘Instant Noodles Launch’ and ‘Yummy Convenience Store’ pop-up, leading to their first U.S. partnership. 

With over 135 years of history and 30 years of experience with Chili Crisp Oil, Lee Kum Kee emphasised that the product’s complexity should be the focus for this new campaign.

“Lee Kum Kee Chili Crisp Oil is all about layers. Each taste adds something unique and brings texture, depth, and surprises with every bite. Like a good wine or highly rated coffee, it has complicated flavours authentic to their heritage, which inspired the campaign’s creative direction,” said Rick Kwan, executive creative director of Grey Hong Kong. 

“Deliciously Complicated’ embraces the idea that some things shouldn’t be simplified. The richness of Chili Crisp Oil isn’t just about good; it’s about creating an experience that encourages curiosity and embraces a taste journey,” added Kwan. 

As part of the campaign, Lee Kum Kee’s Chili Crisp Oil is now available at Walmart, both in over 2,600 stores and online.

Hong Kong – Restaurants continue to recognise the critical role of food delivery platforms, with 93% acknowledging them as equally or increasingly essential to their business in the near future, according to a survey conducted by Deliveroo.

Deliveroo’s survey data highlights how food delivery services complement traditional dining during the festive season while also reflecting restaurants’ confidence in the market’s future outlook.

The survey revealed that the Restaurant Confidence Index rose from 5.1 in Q3 2024 to 6 in Q4 2024, reflecting growing optimism among restaurants heading into 2025. This positive outlook is largely driven by expectations of growth in both dine-in and takeaway business during the festive season.

During the Christmas and New Year period, the survey showed that 61% of restaurants reported stable or increased revenue from dine-in services, while 59% saw similar growth in takeaway. Compared to the previous quarter, around 60% of restaurants experienced stable or rising revenue in Q4 2024, with 65% for dine-in and 57% for takeaway.

Looking ahead to the mega events in Hong Kong during Q1 2025, 63% of restaurants expect Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day to have a neutral or positive impact on their business, leading them to plan promotions and special offerings. Additionally, 28% of restaurants are preparing festival-specific menus, while 20% are organising special promotions or events.

Additionally, both locals and tourists are expected to immerse themselves in the upcoming mega events across Hong Kong, including the Hong Kong Sevens, major concerts, and cultural events. In fact, 83% of restaurants anticipate these events will have a neutral or positive impact on their business in the first quarter of 2025.

Nick Price, general manager of Deliveroo Hong Kong, said, “We are delighted to see our restaurant partners continue to view Deliveroo as an important partner of their business. Deliveroo has long been a support to restaurants to help generate additional revenue via online delivery in support of their traditional dine-in business. We are proud to provide such opportunities to this vital sector.”