Former printer Xu Weiqing was quick to spot a gap in the market and opened a small store selling foreign-brand liquor in the increasingly popular yet traditional area of Jiaodaokou, in the heart of Beijing. With the Olympics approaching he predicted the rising number of foreigners moving to the capital would have a growing influence on young Chinese drinkers - and he has been proved right, with a mostly local clientele taking the Gordon's and Captain Morgan's from his shelves.
When did you open your shop?
Two years ago in July. My wife was ill, so we needed a business we could operate from home, so we bought these premises and live just the other side of the wall.
Why did you decide to sell foreign-brand alcohol?
Because it's getting so popular now, and I thought a shop selling it in this area would do well. I noticed that more and more foreigners were moving to the Jiaodaokou area and so I thought they would definitely need somewhere local to buy their drink. I didn't want to open a bar - so this was the next best thing.
Why is it so popular now?