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Hong Kong entertainment district sees surge in World Cup demand
Lan Kwai Fong Group says patronage is up 60 to 70 percent for major matches, helping offset local businesses strained by years of consumer spending shifting to mainland China.
Many bars, restaurants and shopping spots in Hong Kong have reported stronger foot traffic during the World Cup, with the Lan Kwai Fong nightlife district in Central seeing a sizable jump in visitors, according to the South China Morning Post.
Lan Kwai Fong Group chairman Allan Zeman said he joined football fans in the entertainment district for the England versus Norway match in the early hours of Sunday morning, calling the night unusually busy and expecting the area to be packed for later games.
Zeman estimated business is up 60 to 70 percent compared with normal days for key matches featuring big-name teams such as England, Brazil and Argentina, and he described few nights as fully active until 4am with both locals and tourists.
The SCMP reported the World Cup has added buoyancy for local pubs, bars and restaurants that have struggled amid a longer-running consumer trend of Hongkongers heading to mainland China for cheaper options.