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Tag: cafe

  • Experience Hybrid Work Life at Logi Cafe: Logitechs Pop-Up Office Oasis with Ten Thousand Coffee in Taiwan

    Experience Hybrid Work Life at Logi Cafe: Logitechs Pop-Up Office Oasis with Ten Thousand Coffee in Taiwan

    Logitech, the global leader in computer peripherals, has teamed up with Ten Thousand Coffee to present Logi Café, a temporary initiative in Taiwan designed to transform cafés into flexible workspaces. This unique experience allows customers to interact with and explore Logitech’s extensive collection of innovative productivity devices.

    Creating Mobile Workspaces with Logi Café

    Active until the end of August, this experience is hosted in five different Ten Thousand Coffee locations across Taiwan, all under the banner ‘Work Anywhere With Logi.’ There are two primary venues, the Breeze Center and Q Square in Taipei, which offer dedicated experiential zones. Here, visitors have the unique opportunity to test the functionality of Logitech products within the authentic setting of a café environment.

    The Logi Café display features Logitech’s diverse array of portable and ergonomic devices. Visitors can engage with products such as the Mobi wireless folding mouse, the Keys-To-Go 2 Bluetooth keyboard, the MX series peripherals, and the complete Ergo collection. Additionally, customers can discover the AI-powered productivity features offered by Logitech’s Options+ software.

    This unique campaign was designed to reflect the contemporary shift towards hybrid work patterns. Cafes are increasingly seen as alternative workspaces for both professionals and students. The Logi Café initiative seeks to illustrate how Logitech’s lightweight peripherals can enhance productivity not only within traditional office spaces but beyond.

    Logitech’s Expansion into Retail

    In 2023, Logitech Singapore joined forces with Watsons to distribute a curated range of lifestyle and technology items across Singapore’s brick-and-mortar stores. This move into physical retail spaces further exemplifies Logitech’s commitment to delivering its innovative products directly to the consumer in a variety of settings.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Logi Café?
    Logi Café is a temporary initiative launched in Taiwan by Logitech in partnership with Ten Thousand Coffee. It transforms cafés into mobile workspaces where consumers can experience Logitech’s latest productivity devices.

    What products can visitors test at Logi Café?
    Visitors to Logi Café can explore a range of Logitech’s portable and ergonomic devices, including the Mobi wireless folding mouse, Keys-To-Go 2 Bluetooth keyboard, MX series peripherals, and the Ergo collection. They can also discover the AI-powered productivity features offered by Logitech’s Options+ software.

    What is the aim of Logi Café?
    Logi Café is designed to reflect the current shift towards hybrid working, demonstrating how Logitech’s lightweight peripherals can enhance productivity not only within traditional office spaces but also in alternative workspaces such as cafés.

  • Experience Luxury Dining: Tiffany & Cos Inaugural Blue Box Cafe in Southeast Asia to Open in Singapore

    Experience Luxury Dining: Tiffany & Cos Inaugural Blue Box Cafe in Southeast Asia to Open in Singapore

    Tiffany & Co, the prestigious luxury jeweller, announced their plans to launch their first-ever Blue Box Cafe in Southeast Asia. Set to make its debut in Singapore’s flagship store next month, this move is meant to elevate the brand’s presence within the region.

    Details of the Blue Box Cafe

    Slated to open its doors in mid-July, the Blue Box Cafe will take over the top floor of the recently revamped Ion Orchard store. Taking inspiration from its original New York-based Blue Box Cafe, the Singaporean outpost will boast an American-French menu. This gastronomic offering is the brainchild of Julien Royer, renowned chef and owner of Odette, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant.

    The Ion Orchard branch of Tiffany & Co has recently undergone a significant facelift and is now the only triplex boutique of the brand in Singapore. The store’s refurbishment began in September of the previous year. Its design shares similarities with Tiffany’s Landmark flagship store in New York, featuring a dynamic light installation by British architect, Hugh Dutton, gracing the store’s facade.

    Highlights of the Renovated Store

    This boutique not only houses the first Tiffany watch salon in Singapore, but it also encompasses private VIP suites, and the Schlumberger Gallery. This exclusive space showcases the works of notable jewellery designer, Jean Schlumberger.

    In addition to these offerings, the store also features artworks by ceramic artist Peter Lane and exhibits the Monumental Bronze-Mounted Vase. This historic masterpiece, created in 1898, is the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany, after whom the brand is named.

    Yeo Mui Hong, CEO of Orchard Turn Developments, expressed his pride in housing the first Blue Box Cafe in Southeast Asia at Ion Orchard. He affirmed the company’s commitment to enhancing the shopping experiences of its patrons and members. This introduction of the Blue Box Cafe follows the successful opening of a similar cafe earlier this year at Tiffany & Co’s Lee Gardens boutique in Hong Kong.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Blue Box Cafe?
    The Blue Box Cafe is a dining concept by luxury jeweller Tiffany & Co. The cafe is designed to complement the shopping experience with a unique gastronomic offering.

    Where will the first Blue Box Cafe in Southeast Asia be located?
    The first Blue Box Cafe in Southeast Asia will be located on the top floor of the Tiffany & Co store in Ion Orchard, Singapore.

    What unique features does the renovated Ion Orchard store offer?
    The renovated Ion Orchard store houses Singapore’s first Tiffany Watch Salon, private VIP suites, and The Schlumberger Gallery, showcasing creations by jewellery designer Jean Schlumberger. It also features a kinetic light installation on its facade and several noteworthy art pieces.

  • Unlock Luxury: Tiffany & Co Launches Expanded Flagship Store and Blue Box Cafe in Hong Kongs Lee Gardens

    Unlock Luxury: Tiffany & Co Launches Expanded Flagship Store and Blue Box Cafe in Hong Kongs Lee Gardens

    Tiffany & Co, esteemed luxury jewellery brand, has broadened its reach in Hong Kong with the inauguration of a flagship store at Lee Gardens, introducing a fresh retail experience.

    The boutique, situated in Causeway Bay, extends over two floors and more than 770 square meters. It boasts specialized areas for high jewellery, watches, home accessories, and exclusive client appointments.

    Upon entering the 414 square meter ground floor, customers are greeted with an impressive display of Tiffany’s esteemed jewellery collections. These include the HardWear, Lock, Knot, and T ranges. Adding a touch of exclusivity, a dedicated high jewellery salon is also housed on this floor.

    The boutique’s interior exudes elegance, featuring metallic finishes, soothing color palettes, and bespoke design elements. A particularly eye-catching highlight is the exquisite orchid mural, which adorns a private salon space.

    The first floor, spanning 359 square meters, provides a multi-faceted experience for the clientele. It encompasses a watch salon, a home & accessories section, and the novel Blue Box Cafe which is set to open its doors next month. The brand also revealed the integration of artworks by notable artists Gregor Hildebrandt, Shim Moon Seup, Vik Muniz, and Sho Shibuya.

    The upcoming Blue Box Cafe will serve as a culinary treat for the customers, offering a unique, Japanese-inspired dining experience. The cafe will utilize local ingredients in its offerings, which will span across breakfast, teatime, and an all-day menu.

    The Causeway Bay store follows the opening of the first Tiffany Blue Box Cafe in Asia, which was launched in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui last year. This marks the brand’s second cafe venture in the market.

    Questions & Answers

    **What does the new Tiffany & Co boutique in Causeway Bay offer?**
    The new boutique offers dedicated spaces for high jewellery, watches, home accessories, and private client appointments. The store also houses a new Blue Box Cafe and features artwork from renowned artists.

    **What will the new Blue Box Cafe offer to customers?**
    The Blue Box Cafe will provide a Japanese-inspired dining experience, featuring local ingredients across breakfast, teatime, and an all-day menu.

    **How many Blue Box Cafes does Tiffany & Co have in Hong Kong?**
    With the opening of the Blue Box Cafe in the Causeway Bay boutique, Tiffany & Co now operates two cafes in Hong Kong; the first one is located in Tsim Sha Tsui.

  • Bangkok’s Ve/la Coffee Brand Brews Up Expansion Strategy: New 24/7 Cafe to Perk Up Changi Airport in Singapore

    Bangkok’s Ve/la Coffee Brand Brews Up Expansion Strategy: New 24/7 Cafe to Perk Up Changi Airport in Singapore

    Ve/la, a coffee enterprise originally established in Bangkok, is poised to broaden its horizons with a new cafe at Changi Airport Terminal 1 in Singapore. This will be the brand’s inaugural airport location, as well as its third international market.

    Slated to open by the end of this summer, the cafe will be landside, near Jewel Changi Airport. The strategic location will enable it to serve a diverse customer base, ranging from travelers to local patrons. In another first for the brand, the cafe will remain open 24 hours a day, catering to the round-the-clock needs of the airport’s visitors.

    As the founder of Ve/la, Pete Kasidit Prasitrattanaporn, views it, the decision to expand into Singapore was a logical progression after the brand’s initial foray into the international market in London. He cited Singapore’s geographical closeness to Thailand and its renowned excellence in operational standards as key factors influencing this decision.

    In his words, “At some point, it became apparent that our visions aligned perfectly. Our choice of location is always thoughtfully considered, and this one was an unequivocal decision.”

    Designed to provide a counterpoint to the bustling atmosphere of Changi Airport, the cafe is anticipated to offer a serene space for patrons. Its decor will feature restrained, calming interiors with a focus on natural materials and soft finishes.

    Ve/la’s menu continues to focus on its core offerings of specialty coffee, matcha, and tea. In a nod to local tastes, a unique Kaya Toast Latte, inspired by popular Singaporean flavors, will be offered exclusively at this location.

    The move to expand into Singapore is indicative of Ve/la’s ongoing strategy for international growth, which emphasizes choosing strategic locations and ensuring a consistent brand experience across different markets.

    Questions & Answers

    What distinguishes the upcoming Ve/la cafe at Changi Airport?
    The Ve/la cafe at Changi Airport in Singapore will be the brand’s first airport location, first 24-hour operation, and third international market.

    What led Ve/la to choose Singapore for its expansion?
    Singapore’s proximity to Thailand and its reputation for excellence in operational standards were key factors. The location near Jewel Changi Airport offers access to a diverse customer base including both travelers and local patrons.

    What unique offerings will the Singapore location of Ve/la have?
    The Ve/la cafe in Singapore will offer a unique Kaya Toast Latte, an exclusive offering inspired by popular local flavors.

  • Beloved Cafe Chain The Providore Closes All Singapore Locations Amidst Liquidation

    Beloved Cafe Chain The Providore Closes All Singapore Locations Amidst Liquidation

    Renowned for its café, deli, and grocery services, The Providore has officially discontinued all its operations in Singapore amidst ongoing liquidation.

    The Providore commenced its business journey in Singapore in the year 2013. Over the years, it has progressively expanded its reach to cover six different locations across the city-state. However, as of yesterday, all these locations have ceased their services, marking an end to the company’s operations.

    The company expressed their gratitude to their customers via a statement on social media, which reads, “We sincerely thank our valued customers for their unwavering support and generosity throughout our journey. All The Providore outlets in Singapore will cease operations from March 9.”

    In a reflective tone, the company also added, “While it’s time for us to part ways, the flavors and memories we created together will endure. We remain hopeful of crossing paths with you again in a different avatar in the future.”

    Next Steps and Past Ownership

    In an attempt to guide its customers during this transition, notices have been placed in some stores directing all inquiries to ClearView Associates, a Singapore-based liquidation firm.

    The Providore had been previously acquired by SingFire Capital and Vino Vibe in April 2025. However, subsequent to the acquisition, Vino Vibe became the sole controller of the company. It was also during this transaction that Robert Collick, the founder of The Providore, relinquished his control of the business.

    Questions & Answers

    Why has The Providore ceased all operations in Singapore?
    The Providore has discontinued its services in Singapore due to ongoing liquidation.

    When did The Providore start its business operations in Singapore?
    The Providore began its journey in Singapore in the year 2013.

    Who were the investors in The Providore?
    The Providore was sold to SingFire Capital and Vino Vibe in April 2025, after which Vino Vibe assumed sole control of the enterprise.

  • Philippine Sensation Mary Grace Cafe Set to Debut in Singapore: A Milestone in Global Expansion

    Philippine Sensation Mary Grace Cafe Set to Debut in Singapore: A Milestone in Global Expansion

    The popular food and beverage chain from the Philippines, Mary Grace Cafe, is set to establish its inaugural full-service cafe in Singapore in the coming year. This expansion represents the brand’s initial venture into international markets.

    Mary Grace Cafe was established in 2006 and has since flourished, boasting over 140 cafes and kiosks scattered throughout the Philippines. The brand is renowned for its inviting and cozy store design, reminiscent of a homely atmosphere.

    The Singapore branch’s menu will showcase the brand’s beloved culinary offerings. Customers can expect to enjoy hot chocolate, ensaymadas, cheese rolls, and a variety of traditional Filipino dishes like tapsilog and Vigan longganisa sandwiches.

    For Mary Grace Dimacali, the founder, president, and CEO of the brand, the expansion signifies not just a business milestone but also a personal achievement. She reflected on her humble beginnings when she first started baking in her home kitchen, admitting that she never anticipated the brand would extend its reach beyond the Philippines.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Mary Grace Cafe?
    Mary Grace Cafe is a well-known food and beverage chain from the Philippines, noted for its warm, home-style store design.

    What new venture is Mary Grace Cafe embarking on?
    Mary Grace Cafe is preparing to launch its first full-service cafe in Singapore next year, marking its debut in overseas markets.

    What are some signature items on the Mary Grace Cafe menu?
    The menu of Mary Grace Cafe features items such as hot chocolate, ensaymadas, cheese rolls, and traditional Filipino dishes like tapsilog and Vigan longganisa sandwiches.

  • South Korean Cafe Giant ‘A Twosome Place’ Readies for Sweet US Debut

    South Korean Cafe Giant ‘A Twosome Place’ Readies for Sweet US Debut

    Renowned South Korean café chain, A Twosome Place, is gearing up to launch its first company-owned branch in the United States in the coming year. This move signifies a re-energized push for international expansion, following the café’s exit from the Chinese market three years prior.

    Global Expansion Strategy

    While the exact location and timeline for the U.S. launch have not yet been disclosed, it is clear that this move is part of A Twosome Place’s comprehensive strategy to disseminate Korean-style café culture worldwide.

    A Twosome Place, established in 2002, currently operates over 1700 outlets across South Korea, and is recognized for its exceptional dessert offerings. The chain embarked on franchising in 2008 and was later purchased by The Carlyle Group in 2021.

    Domestic Developments

    On the domestic front, A Twosome Place is introducing the ‘Twosome 2.0’ concept: a high-end store design that is being implemented in key districts of Seoul. There are plans already underway to propagate this concept nationally, while infusing new elements into pre-existing stores.

    The café chain retreated from the Chinese market after shuttering over 40 outlets in 2022, which came as a result of a sustained period of lackluster sales in the region.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of A Twosome Place’s expansion into the U.S.?
    The planned move to open a branch in the U.S. is part of A Twosome Place’s wider strategy to introduce Korean-style café culture to international markets.

    What is ‘Twosome 2.0’, the concept A Twosome Place is implementing domestically?
    ‘Twosome 2.0’ is a new store design concept that provides a premium aesthetic. The company plans to implement this design across their stores in South Korea.

    Why did A Twosome Place withdraw from the Chinese market?
    A Twosome Place withdrew from China after experiencing several years of slow sales, leading to the closure of more than 40 stores in 2022.

  • Cafe Amazon Accelerates Global Expansion, Sidesteps Vietnamese Market Amid Investor Exit

    Cafe Amazon Accelerates Global Expansion, Sidesteps Vietnamese Market Amid Investor Exit

    Cafe Amazon, a coffee chain operated by PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR), is accelerating its global expansion plans. Notably absent from its target locations, however, is Vietnam. This strategic decision follows the withdrawal of a Thai investor from Cafe Amazon’s joint venture in the Southeast Asian country.

    Global Expansion Focus

    As Cafe Amazon navigates its global growth strategy, it is centering its attention on several key markets. These include Laos, the Philippines, Japan, Oman, and Bahrain. The company is implementing a franchise model in these regions with a keen focus on ensuring consistent brand standards. This encompasses all aspects from design to quality and service.

    Growth Trajectory

    Cafe Amazon has seen rapid growth over the past ten years, expanding to over 5000 outlets worldwide. This impressive global presence has positioned the company as one of Asia’s largest coffee chains. Notably, in the second quarter of the fiscal year 2025, Cafe Amazon reported sales of over 107 million cups of coffee. This represents a nearly 5 per cent increase from the same time the previous year.

    Vietnamese Market Shift

    The exit of a key investor marks a significant change in Cafe Amazon’s approach to the Vietnamese market. In recent years, this market has seen increasing competition from both local and international coffee chains. While the specifics of the company’s restructuring have not been disclosed, Cafe Amazon has indicated that it intends to focus on markets with a higher potential for growth.

    Questions & Answers

    Why is Cafe Amazon not focusing on expansion in Vietnam?
    The company has decided to shift its focus following the exit of a Thai investor from its joint venture in Vietnam.

    Which markets is Cafe Amazon focusing on for its expansion?
    Cafe Amazon is turning its attention to Laos, the Philippines, Japan, Oman, and Bahrain for its global expansion.

    How is Cafe Amazon performing globally?
    Cafe Amazon has over 5,000 outlets worldwide, making it one of Asia’s largest coffee chains. In the second quarter of the fiscal year 2025, the company sold over 107 million cups of coffee, indicating a nearly 5 per cent increase from the previous year.

  • Cafe Amazon Retreats From Vietnam: Intense Competition Spurs Strategic Pivot For Centel

    Cafe Amazon Retreats From Vietnam: Intense Competition Spurs Strategic Pivot For Centel

    Thailand’s Cafe Amazon seems prepared to bow out from the local market after a half-decade attempt to square up with local coffee chains. At the forefront of this decision is Central Plaza Hotel Public Company Limited (Centel), who will be stepping away from the Cafe Amazon joint venture in Vietnam. This move indicates a strategic pivot in response to the fierce competitive landscape in Vietnam’s coffee sector.

    Centel’s withdrawal implicates the dissolution of the ORC Coffee Passion Group Joint Stock Company (ORCG), the corporation responsible for the operations of Cafe Amazon within Vietnam. ORCG was a partnership between Centel’s indirect subsidiary, Central Restaurants Group (Vietnam), which owns a 40 per cent stake, and PTTOR International Holdings (Singapore), another subsidiary of the publicly-traded Thai firm PTT Oil and Retail Business, with a 60 per cent stake.

    In an official statement, Centel underscored the necessity to “realign business priorities” and adapt to the pressing challenges in the market. As of the end of August, the company’s investment in the venture amounted to THB 56 million (US$1.72 million).

    This decision marks the end of Centel’s involvement in Cafe Amazon’s expansion into Vietnam, an ambitious initiative that was launched in 2020 with the goal of becoming a top global coffee brand. Unfortunately, the stiff competition from both international and local chains proved to be too daunting.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the primary reason for Cafe Amazon’s exit from Vietnam?
    Intense competition from local and international coffee chains is the main reason behind Cafe Amazon’s exit from the Vietnamese market.

    What percentage of ORC Coffee Passion Group Joint Stock Company (ORCG) does Central Restaurants Group (Vietnam) hold?
    Central Restaurants Group (Vietnam), an indirect subsidiary of Centel, holds a 40 per cent stake in ORCG.

    When did Cafe Amazon originally plan its expansion into Vietnam?
    Cafe Amazon initiated its ambitious expansion into Vietnam in 2020, with the goal of becoming a top global coffee brand.

  • Indonesian Coffee Chain Toko Kopi Tuku Opens First European Store In Amsterdam

    Indonesian Coffee Chain Toko Kopi Tuku Opens First European Store In Amsterdam

    Toko Kopi Tuku, an Indonesian coffee chain, has recently launched its inaugural European outlet in Amsterdam. This expansion represents the latest step in the company’s global strategy, following a pop-up store in Seoul last year.

    The Amsterdam store is the result of a collaboration with Roemah Indonesia and aims to blend into the Dutch market while simultaneously promoting Indonesian coffee beans, such as those sourced from Aceh and Toraja.

    Expanding the Menu

    Tuku’s menu offers its signature beverage, Kopi Susu Tetangga, as well as an array of food choices adapted to cater to the local palate.

    Rina Radinal Maksum, co-founder of Roemah Indonesia, expressed her confidence in the success of Tuku’s international expansion, following their positive experience with coffee brand Hejo.

    From Small Beginnings to Global Ambitions

    Toko Kopi Tuku’s journey began in 2015 as a modest kiosk located in the Cipete district of Jakarta, under the leadership of CEO Andanu Prasetyo. It has since metamorphosed into a coffee chain with a wide presence throughout Indonesia. The brand maintains an ambitious target of running 72 stores globally by the close of this year.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Toko Kopi Tuku?
    Toko Kopi Tuku is an Indonesian coffee chain that began as a small kiosk in Jakarta and has grown into a popular cafe chain across Indonesia.

    What is the significance of the new store in Amsterdam?
    The newly opened store in Amsterdam marks the first European outlet for Toko Kopi Tuku, signifying a key step in the company’s global expansion strategy.

    What are Tuku’s future expansion plans?
    Tuku aims to operate 72 stores worldwide by the end of the current year, highlighting the brand’s ambitious global growth plan.

  • Cafe Amazon Drives Record-breaking Quarter For Thailand’s Ptt Oil And Retail Business

    Cafe Amazon Drives Record-breaking Quarter For Thailand’s Ptt Oil And Retail Business

    PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR), the lifestyle and retail subsidiary of Thailand’s PTT Group, has announced a record-breaking financial performance for the first quarter of this year. This success is largely attributable to its leading brand Cafe Amazon, which experienced a period of significant expansion throughout Southeast Asia.

    Noteworthy Performance

    Cafe Amazon sold over 112 million cups of coffee during the first quarter, emphasizing the strength of the brand. With 391 stores now in operation outside of Thailand, the cafe chain has become a key driver of OR’s earnings growth. The company’s total revenue hit an impressive US$5.6 billion, with net profits increasing by 46 per cent from the last quarter to approximately $134 million. This represents a 17.6 per cent growth year-on-year.

    ML Peekthong Thongyai, CEO of OR, credited the robust performance to the resilience of the business model. “Our strong performance this quarter underscores our long-term strategic direction. We are expanding with a clear purpose, delivering value for individuals, contributing to community prosperity and demonstrating our commitment to environmental responsibility.”

    Global Expansion

    Cafe Amazon’s reach extends to nine markets. These include Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Japan.

    The cafe chain is part of OR’s wider Global Business segment. This segment reported a 30.8 per cent year-on-year increase in sales volume together with an 81.5 per cent rise in EBITDA.

    Peekthong reiterated the company’s mission beyond monetary profit. “We’re not just about selling fuel or coffee. Our goal is to build platforms that strengthen local economies, encourage entrepreneurship, and facilitate long-term, sustainable growth.”

    OR oversees 415 PTT Stations and 391 Cafe Amazon outlets across Asia and the Middle East.

    Questions & Answers

    What factors contributed to OR’s record-breaking financial performance?
    The company attributes its success to the significant expansion of Cafe Amazon, which sold over 112 million cups of coffee in the first quarter.

    What markets does Cafe Amazon currently operate in?
    The cafe chain operates in nine markets, including Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Japan.

    What is OR’s greater mission beyond selling products?
    OR aims to build platforms that strengthen local economies, promote entrepreneurship, and facilitate sustainable, long-term growth.

  • Cafe De Coral Profits Plummet Amid Economic Fragility; Embraces Strategic Adaptations For Resilience

    Cafe De Coral Profits Plummet Amid Economic Fragility; Embraces Strategic Adaptations For Resilience

    Cafe de Coral, a prominent foodservice operator, has disclosed a slump in earnings, attributing the setback to a frail economy and lukewarm consumer sentiment. The fiscal report for the year ending March 31 revealed a 1.4% slide in revenue, resulting in HK$8.568 billion (US$1 billion). Concurrently, the profit attributable faced a steep 29.6% fall, amounting to HK$232.7 million.

    Challenging Industry Landscape

    The management acknowledged a severe downturn in the restaurant sector both in Hong Kong and Mainland China. The slump was aggravated by heightened economic fragility and a tepid consumer sentiment. Additional factors contributing to the downturn included the outbound spending habits of Hong Kong’s residents and stiff price competition in Mainland China’s marketplace.

    In Hong Kong, the revenue loss was marked at 1.4% with casual dining and quick service restaurants experiencing a decline of 6.4% and 0.3% respectively. Revenue from Mainland China recorded a 1.3% decrease.

    Strategic Adaptation

    Sunny Lo, the Chairman of Cafe de Coral, contended that the uncertainty over the course of the previous year was indicative of a long-term transformation in global markets. As per him, this transformation was triggered by geopolitical forces adapting to a new dynamic.

    Lo stated, “Our management team has accepted and embraced the current economic challenges and is adapting the business to thrive in the new environment.” He further emphasized the company’s commitment to the future by refining its restaurant portfolio, hiring new talent, and integrating innovative technological solutions to transform the business operations.

    Cafe de Coral currently oversees a network of over 500 stores spanning Hong Kong, Macau, and nine principal cities in Mainland China.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main reason for Cafe de Coral’s decreased profits and sales in the last fiscal year?
    The primary reasons for the decrease in profit and sales were attributed to a weak economy and lukewarm consumer sentiment, particularly in Hong Kong and Mainland China.

    How did the downturn affect different restaurant types?
    The downturn affected casual dining and quick service restaurants differently. Casual dining saw a decrease of 6.4%, while quick service restaurants experienced a smaller decrease of 0.3%.

    What steps is Cafe de Coral taking to adapt to the current economic challenges?
    The company is adapting by refining its restaurant portfolio, recruiting fresh talent, and incorporating new technology into its operations.

  • Vietnamese Café Launches in Prime HCMC Spot Once Occupied by Starbucks

    Vietnamese Café Launches in Prime HCMC Spot Once Occupied by Starbucks

    In a notable shift within the retail landscape of Ho Chi Minh City, Adoré – World Coffee has confidently stepped into a prime location on Han Thuyen Street, just eight months after Starbucks shuttered its upscale store at the same site. This development marks an exciting chapter in the city’s evolving consumer trends.

    New Tenant at a Competitive Rate

    Adoré is now leasing the three-story property for VND700 million per month (approximately US$29,000), slightly edging below the VND750 million Starbucks previously paid. While this represents a decrease, the rent remains nearly double the area’s average, reflecting the property’s high-profile status in Vietnam’s bustling metropolis.

    The prime location boasts over eight meters of street frontage and scenic views from the upper floors, driving its premium rental price, according to real estate analysts.

    Prolonged Search for Tenants

    Despite its prime position, it took the building’s owner eight months to secure a new tenant. The downtown area of Ho Chi Minh City has a surplus of commercial properties, resulting in many buildings sitting vacant for extended periods. Property owners often prefer to hold out for top-tier tenants rather than lower rents.

    Starbucks Finds New Home

    In the meantime, Starbucks has established a new home in the iconic Bitexco Financial Tower. This premium store, spanning 500 square meters, reportedly incurs a monthly rent of about $75,000 before long-term tenant discounts, as commercial space on the tower’s ground levels averages around $150 per square meter.

    Looking ahead, Starbucks plans to unveil another upscale store in July near the Diamond Plaza, just 300 meters from the previous Han Thuyen location.

    Impact on the Retail Sector

    The arrival of Adoré – World Coffee in such a sought-after space not only reflects the dynamic nature of retail in Ho Chi Minh City but also showcases shifting consumer preferences toward local brands. As brands expand their presence in premium locations, the retail sector is poised for further innovation and growth.

    Questions & Answers

    1. What Vietnamese coffee shop has taken over the former Starbucks location on Han Thuyen Street? Adoré – World Coffee is the new tenant of the prime retail space that was previously occupied by Starbucks.
    2. How much is Adoré – World Coffee paying in rent for the new location? Adoré is leasing the property for VND700 million per month, slightly less than what Starbucks paid before its departure.
    3. What are Starbucks’ future plans in Ho Chi Minh City? Starbucks is set to open another premium store in July, likely near Diamond Plaza, just a short distance from the former Han Thuyen site.
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  • Cafe de Coral warns of declining profit

    Cafe de Coral warns of declining profit

    Cafe de Coral expects to report lower net profit for the six months ended September 30 due to a “severe and expected downturn” amid a weakened economy.

    The restaurant chain forecasts net profit to decline not higher by 30 per cent from HK$200.6 million (US$25.8 million) in the year-ago period, due to the plunge in the restaurant business and a high-base effect following strong sales recovery when the pandemic-related restrictions were lifted.

    In Hong Kong, the company focused on value offers, menu mix, hero product promotions, and membership loyalty strategies to create demand and help offset decline.

    In Mainland China, the company implemented quick menu investments, promotional offers, and brand campaigns to keep a stable performance and profit margins.

    “With the central government’s determined efforts to promote recovery of the economy, as well as our strong underlying business fundamentals and steady focus on constant internal improvement, the group is well positioned to return to growth as the market recovers,” said the company.

  • 7-Eleven unveils 7Cafe concept store at Jewel Changi

    7-Eleven unveils 7Cafe concept store at Jewel Changi

    7-Eleven is usually a place where people pop in and out in a jiffy. However, this isn’t the case at the convenience stores’s first 7Café concept store at Jewel Changi Airport. The 7Café concept store at Jewel Changi Airport is located in Basement 2.

    It has an extended range of 7Café items, including Salted Caramel Coffee, Mocha, and Matcha Frappés priced at $5.50 each. There are also offerings featuring the local flavors of Singapore – Banana Caramel Smoothie inspired by Goreng Pisang and Pandan Lemonade cooler.

    Those who love cheesecakes can try several flavors, including Yuzu, Lychee, or Cookies & Cream all priced at $5.50 each.

    Warm pastries and finger food will be available at the hot food counter. Savoury hot food items include a range of fried chicken favorites including Hot and Spicy Drumlets, Chicken bites with a choice of Red Pepper or Garlic Herb seasoning, Chicken Drumsticks, Nuggets, and Wings.

    Other light options include sandwiches, burgers, and onigiri. There will also be Ready-To-Eat meals too.

    The grand opening of the Jewel 7-Eleven outlet will take place from 25 to 27 November 2022, 11 am to 9 pm daily. Over the weekend, customers can enjoy a sampling of drinks and snacks, free cotton candy floss and 7-Eleven balloons. There will also be chances to walk away with Spin and Win rewards, with a minimum spend of $10, and freebies for completing Jewel Challenge card activities.

    “At 7-Eleven, we always broaden our horizons and create innovative offerings for our customers. The 7-Eleven Jewel Changi store seeks to provide a first-of-its-kind mini café experience with food being served at the counter for the convenience of our customers. We have also expanded our well-loved product range by adding a slew of new options. From items highlighting the iconic local flavors of Singapore to delectable ready-to-eat food options, there’s something for everyone! We hope that everyone will be able to enjoy our new concept store with its unique design and exclusive menu,” said Mr. Steven Lye, Managing Director of 7-Eleven Singapore.