Hong Kong Sevens: bar operators in Wan Chai, Causeway Bay expect event’s move to Kai Tak next year will hit business hard
- Sevens expected to move to new 50,000-seat venue at Kai Tak Sports Park in 2025 after 42 years at Hong Kong Stadium
- Economist forecasts the annual sporting extravaganza will bring HK$320 million in economic benefits to city this year
Some bar operators on Hong Kong Island expect business to drop when the Sevens rugby tournament moves to Kai Tak in 2025, while an economist has forecast the annual signature event will bring HK$320 million in economic benefits to the city this year.
The event, which kicked on Friday at Hong Kong Stadium – its home for more than four decades – is expected to move to a new 50,000-seat venue at Kai Tak Sports Park in Kowloon next year.
Over the years, rugby fans both local and from around the world have packed bars and pubs on Hong Kong Island over the Sevens weekend, especially in Wan Chai, an area within walking distance of the stadium in Causeway Bay.
Tsang Siu-ching, owner of Ruggers bar in Causeway Bay, said she expected business to fall by 30 to 40 per cent after the Sevens moved across Victoria Harbour to Kai Tak.
“I am very worried. There will not be anyone in Causeway Bay as all of them will be in Kowloon,” she said.
“Even for hotels, they may choose ones in Kowloon instead of Causeway Bay. Consumption before and after the tournament may be further reduced.”