Joe Bananas and others rock on - so is Hong Kong nightlife really not as vibrant as “Gang Piao” claim?

That’s what a recent survey suggests, with some “Gang Piao” (“Hong Kong Drifters”) feeling a bit underwhelmed.

But is that the case? Hong Kong’s nightlife, like many global cities, was severely impacted by the pandemic. Regulations decimated the scene here, much like in the UK and elsewhere. Recovery takes time, but I’m confident in our resilient and adaptive F&B sector because recent calls to me and meetings prove it.

Here’s the facts:

– Live music venues are still rocking every night.

– Comedy clubs are bringing the laughs to us again.

– Small business startup vibrancy is emerging in our shops, streets and alleyways.

In just the past week, three different clients (some old and some new) have approached me with plans for new operations or expansion. One will focus on late-night offerings, the second is extending operational trading hours and the third has multiple new locations planned.

The momentum is building!

That said, my recent post about Tsui Wah not opening beyond midnight highlights a lingering issue: a lack of late-night activity or options until demand picks up.

My take? Those who are now ready to meet the market’s needs will catch any wave; if you wait you miss it, the good locations will be gone (most are) and your competitors will be established. Extending operational hours right now incurs minimal (variable) additional costs but can unlock new revenue streams and new/different customers. It’s a low-risk, high-reward move with the major costs of the rent and construction being sunk costs at the end of every month. Certainly a few more hours trading is worth a test for many outlets.

What’s your take? I believe Hong Kong and the nightlife scene is making a comeback, but slowly, so what more can be done to speed it along and get us back to being a city that never sleeps? That’s the question and staying open a bit longer, with a late-night offering, is hardly difficult.

If you need specific input regarding a strategic Hong Kong challenge or related legal matters in the HKSAR you can always DM me and check out my profile at https://www.ajhalkes.com

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