Red Lobster seafood chain optimistic as it prepares to open first Hong Kong outlet in protest hotspot Causeway Bay
- Market observers say that shops will still open, but they will have to ride out the uncertainty
International brands are pressing ahead with their expansion plans in Hong Kong even as consumer spending and tourists numbers have taken a hit from the social unrest in the city. And with the formal withdrawal of the extradition bill on Wednesday, there is a likelihood of the city returning to normality and boosting consumer confidence.
In November, American seafood chain Red Lobster will open its first restaurant in Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay, one of the city’s busiest shopping districts which has been hit by the months-long protests.
Cosmetic retailer Sephora opened a new store at the IFC Mall on Tuesday, after a nine-year absence in Hong Kong.
“We feel very optimistic about how Red Lobster will be received,” said David Martin, chief operating officer at FWM Restaurants, adding that brands tend to do better when things are a little bit tougher.
The company also runs two Red Lobster restaurants in Beijing and Shanghai, and operates Morton’s steakhouse and The Butcher’s Club in Hong Kong.