Hong Kong’s Ocean Empire congee chain shuts down all restaurants after 33 years
Chain blames worsening operating environment and the company’s deteriorating financial situation, among other factors, for decision
A popular 33-year-old congee restaurant chain has shut all its outlets and is facing claims of HK$8 million (US$1.03 million) in unpaid wages, blaming worsening operating and financial conditions as it joined a growing wave of Hong Kong shop closures.
Ocean Empire Food Shop, held by Ocean Empire International Limited, told employees about its decision in a letter on Wednesday night.
“The management regrettably decided to terminate all its business operations and will close down all its shops and offices on [Wednesday] due to the worsening operating environment and the company’s deteriorating financial situation, among other factors,” the company’s board said.
“With the termination of the business, the company will subsequently proceed with liquidation by way of voluntary winding up by creditors.”
The board also said that employment contracts ended on Wednesday and workers could make claims over outstanding wages, payment in lieu of notice, accrued annual leave and severance pay. They could also ask the Labour Department about claim matters.
The department said it received requests for help from more than 80 staff members seeking outstanding wages and related payments of HK$8 million.