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Tag: food and beverage

  • Hong Kong Study Links Frequent Fast Food Intake to Depression Risk in Young Adults

    Hong Kong Study Links Frequent Fast Food Intake to Depression Risk in Young Adults

    Hong Kong young adults who consume fast food frequently face higher rates of depression and anxiety symptoms, according to a 142-person university study published in Nutrients.

    Depressive symptoms in the city already stand at 34 per cent and anxiety at 31 per cent, outpacing global averages. The findings arrive as quick-service restaurant chains continue to rely on youth footfall in high-density commercial districts across the territory.

    Burgers, Fries and Bubble Tea

    Researchers at the HKU School of Professional and Continuing Education and Hong Kong University tracked participants aged 18 to 27 using a 22-item food frequency questionnaire. The team split subjects into high- and low-intake brackets to evaluate how specific menu choices correlated with psychological outcomes.

    Four menu staples showed the strongest links to mental distress: beef burgers, French fries, fried chicken, and sweetened bubble tea. Each carries elevated levels of saturated fat, sodium, or added sugar.

    Sugar-free beverages showed the opposite effect. Regular consumption of unsweetened tea correlated with lower reported rates of depressive symptoms, pointing to potential protective dietary properties.

    Nutritional Imbalance and City Pressures

    High property costs and tight living spaces push many young Hong Kong workers toward cheap, calorie-dense convenience meals. Fast-food operators have built substantial market share around these budget constraints, offering rapid service at price points traditional sit-down restaurants struggle to match.

    Nutritional shortfalls compound the problem. Diets heavy in processed fats and refined sugars trigger systemic inflammation and disrupt gut health, which researchers associate with impaired neurotransmitter production.

    For food chains across East Asia, shifting consumer scrutiny toward mental wellness creates new menu hurdles. Brands that expanded aggressively across Hong Kong with high-sugar milk teas and deep-fried combos face growing pressure to formulate lower-sodium and zero-sugar alternatives.

    The research team called for larger longitudinal studies to track dietary impacts over multi-year periods as public health bodies evaluate targeted dietary advisories for young consumers.

  • Thai Ice-Cream Brand Hawell’s Put up for Sale for 165 Million Baht

    Thai Ice-Cream Brand Hawell’s Put up for Sale for 165 Million Baht

    Hawell’s founder Siripong Akkarasriyuk has put the Thai ice-cream chain up for sale for 165 million baht as he prepares to enter the Buddhist monkhood.

    The package covers seven rai of land, a production factory in Nonthaburi, recipes developed across 37 years, and the brand’s sole operating standalone outlet.

    What the 165 Million Baht Sale Includes

    Siripong announced the sale on Friday, offering a 5 million baht referral fee to anyone who secures a buyer. The assets bundled into the 165 million baht price tag include the Hawell’s trademark, operating licences, an office building, plant machinery, and proprietary formulas for both hard-scoop and soft-serve ice cream.

    The sale also comes with an expansion blueprint targeting 8.8 billion baht in annual revenue. That model requires rollouts across 300 soft-serve shops, 100 hard ice-cream stores, and 5,000 automated cup-dispensing machines nationwide, provided the incoming buyer secures capital within two years.

    From 22 Mall Stores to One Standalone Unit

    Founded in 1999, the brand opened its first branch at Central Pinklao and expanded to 22 mall locations within three years by positioning itself as an affordable, quality domestic alternative. Growth stalled when competing international and corporate-backed chains secured exclusive lease clauses with shopping centre operators, barring direct rivals from mall premises. The closures culminated in the shutdown of the original Central Pinklao branch in 2014.

    Retail landlords in Bangkok have long favoured well-funded conglomerate brands with exclusive tenancy covenants, squeezing independent operators out of prime foot-traffic corridors. Hawell’s pivot away from department stores toward standalone sites and automated vending mirrors broader efforts by local food operators across Southeast Asia to bypass mall lease restrictions and high occupancy costs.

    After opening a standalone restaurant in Bang Bua Thong in 2023, Siripong attempted to renegotiate entry into shopping complexes over the past two years without success. Having authored a book on Buddhist philosophy in 2016, he has committed to entering full monastic ordination within two years, making a complete transfer of the business his final operational deadline.

  • Vietnam’s Viva Star Coffee Expands to Malaysia with October Klang Store

    Vietnam’s Viva Star Coffee Expands to Malaysia with October Klang Store

    Vietnamese cafe chain Viva Star Coffee will open its first Malaysian outlet in October at Wyndham Acmar Klang through a partnership with local firm GinsengWorld Biotech Berhad.

    Under the agreement, GinsengWorld will manage local operations while the Vietnamese group provides coffee sourcing, store formats and franchise systems developed over two decades in its home market.

    Franchise formats and supply chain

    Founded in Vietnam, Viva Star Coffee operates an integrated farm-to-cup model that spans bean cultivation, roasting, packaged exports and retail outlets. The chain relies on local master franchisees to scale across international borders rather than building corporate-owned store networks from scratch.

    Its retail lineup includes Viva Reserve, a higher-ticket format featuring six bean varieties and six brewing methods at a dedicated bar, alongside Viva Togo, a compact concept built for fast-service takeaway orders.

    Beyond store counters, the brand exports packaged coffee to South Korea, the United States, Czechia, Australia and Japan, where it established distribution channels in 2022.

    Regional coffee push into Malaysia

    Malaysia gives Viva Star Coffee its seventh overseas market since beginning its international push in Cambodia in 2018. The company has since added operations in Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, China and India.

    Southeast Asian coffee operators are competing aggressively across each other’s home territories. Vietnamese chains such as Cong Ca Phe and Viva Star Coffee are taking their robusta-heavy menus into urban Malaysia and Indonesia, where local incumbents and international giants already fight for retail mall footfall and office lunch traffic.

    All eyes turn to the October opening in Klang, which will test how Viva Star Coffee’s franchise pricing and roast profiles compete against established domestic tea and coffee chains.

  • Filipino-American Grocery Chain Seafood City Opens First Arizona Store

    Filipino-American Grocery Chain Seafood City Opens First Arizona Store

    Seafood City Supermarket, a US-based grocery chain with roots in Filipino and Asian products, has officially opened its first store in Arizona. The new location in Chandler, an East Valley city near Phoenix, marks a strategic expansion for the company into new territories.

    The Chandler supermarket is designed to be a comprehensive destination for Filipino and pan-Asian groceries, fresh produce, and seafood. This opening continues Seafood City’s growth trajectory, building on its strong presence in California and other states with significant Filipino diaspora communities.

    Expanding US Footprint

    The Chandler store joins Seafood City’s existing network across the United States and Canada. The company, founded by Filipino-American entrepreneurs, has historically focused on serving communities with a high concentration of Filipino immigrants and those seeking specific Asian food items.

    The move into Arizona represents an effort to tap into growing Asian-American populations in new regions. Supermarkets catering to specific ethnic demographics often become community hubs, offering a taste of home and a wide range of specialty goods not typically found in mainstream stores.

    Regional Retail Dynamics

    For retailers in Asia, this expansion highlights the ongoing opportunities in catering to diverse consumer preferences, particularly within diaspora communities. The success of chains like Seafood City in North America can inform strategies for Asian grocery brands considering international expansion or for local retailers looking to enhance their specialty offerings.

    RetailNews Asia observes similar trends within the Asia-Pacific region, where specialized supermarkets and food halls are emerging to serve distinct consumer groups, whether focusing on organic products, imported goods, or specific regional cuisines. The ability to create a strong cultural connection through product assortment and store experience remains a key differentiator.

  • Mom’s Touch Sees Strong Singapore Debut with Sales More Than Doubling

    Mom’s Touch Sees Strong Singapore Debut with Sales More Than Doubling

    Korean fast-food chain Mom’s Touch has reported strong initial performance for its first store in Singapore, with opening sales more than doubling its target. The outlet, located on South Bridge Road in Singapore’s Central Business District, launched last Friday and attracted over 200 diners on its opening day.

    This Singapore debut marks the first venture under a master franchise agreement between Mom’s Touch and FairPrice Group, Singapore’s largest retailer. FairPrice Group operates a diverse portfolio including supermarkets, food outlets, convenience stores, and pharmacies. Despite having a capacity of 90 seats, the store has maintained queues before opening each day, consistently exceeding its daily sales target by more than twofold during its first five days of operation.

    Local Adaptations and Expansion Plans

    Mom’s Touch dedicated over two years to developing ingredients, sauces, and a supply chain to meet halal dietary requirements and cater to local tastes in Singapore. The company ensured its signature items, such as the Thigh Burger, maintained their quality equivalent to those offered in Korea. The Singapore menu features market-specific items, including a spicy pepper-sauce burger, a fish fillet burger, and a burger with Australian Angus beef, egg, and cheddar cheese. Morning options like egg toast were also introduced to suit the store’s office district clientele. Prices for menu items range from 3.95 to 6.95 Singapore dollars.

    Dennis Quek, General Manager for Mom’s Touch Singapore and General Manager of FairPrice Group’s Kopitiam division, highlighted the aim of offering local customers a distinctive dining experience. Following this successful launch, Mom’s Touch plans to open a second store in a residential area of Singapore later this year, with broader expansion across the country slated for next year. The brand has been actively expanding its international footprint, having entered Thailand in 2022 and subsequently establishing a presence in Japan, Mongolia, Laos, and Uzbekistan. The company aims to operate 220 overseas stores by 2027.

    Asia’s Growing Fast Food Market

    Mom’s Touch’s strategic entry into Singapore, partnering with a retail giant like FairPrice Group, reflects a common approach for international brands seeking rapid market penetration and local relevance in Asia. Other global and regional fast-food chains have similarly adapted menus and forged local alliances to succeed in diverse Asian markets. RetailNews Asia has observed this trend across various F&B sectors, where localization and strong distribution partnerships are key to overcoming operational challenges and appealing to distinct consumer preferences in a competitive landscape.

  • Australian Bakery Director Fined for Obstructing Inspectors, Targeting Visa Holders

    Australian Bakery Director Fined for Obstructing Inspectors, Targeting Visa Holders

    Legal proceedings have been initiated against Sinamon Pty Ltd, an Australian bakery chain, and two of its directors, including co-director Hui, by the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO). The allegations include obstructing fair work inspectors and breaching Australian workplace laws, with a specific focus on the treatment of visa-holder employees.

    The FWO has accused Hui of physically preventing an inspector from accessing a back office during an unannounced inspection in October 2022. This incident occurred during an investigation that began after a Japanese visa holder sought assistance regarding their employment at Sinamon’s Victoria Park and Mount Lawley outlets.

    Allegations Include Obstruction and Misrepresentation

    Sinamon, which operates stores in Victoria Park, Mount Lawley, and Fremantle, and previously at Curtin University, is also alleged to have failed to comply with a Notice to Produce, as well as breaching record-keeping and payslip requirements. Former director Ahmed El Sayed Imam is separately accused of misrepresenting workplace rights to another visa holder, who was employed at the Curtin University outlet for less than a week in 2023. Imam allegedly told this worker that wages could be deducted to cover damages after their departure.

    Sinamon allegedly failed to comply with a Compliance Notice issued in August 2024. This notice followed the FWO’s belief that the company had underpaid two visa holders under the Fast Food Industry Award 2020 and Restaurant Industry Award 2020, with Hui and Imam allegedly involved in these breaches.

    FWO Prioritises Visa-Holder Protection

    Fair Work Ombudsman Anna Booth stated that intentionally obstructing inspectors is unacceptable conduct. She highlighted the FWO’s priorities: protecting visa-holder workers and improving compliance within the fast food, restaurant, and cafe sectors. The FWO is seeking significant penalties, up to A$93,900 per breach against Sinamon, and A$18,780 per breach against Hui and Imam. They also seek an order for the company to comply with the Compliance Notice and rectify outstanding entitlements, superannuation, and interest.

    A directions hearing is scheduled for September 4 in the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Perth. Hui and Imam have a history of previous penalties, having been fined over A$135,000 in three prior legal actions under Western Australian employment laws. The FWO has filed 171 proceedings involving employers of visa-holder workers in the eight financial years leading up to June last year, securing A$39 million in penalties from these cases.

  • 7-Eleven Unveils First Concept Store in Macau, Emphasizing Experiential Retail

    7-Eleven Unveils First Concept Store in Macau, Emphasizing Experiential Retail

    7-Eleven has opened its first concept store in Macau, bringing an experience-focused retail format that combines a broader shopping experience with traditional convenience offerings. This expansion follows similar successful concept store launches by the brand in Hong Kong and signals a strategic move to differentiate its presence in the region.

    The new Macau store aims to serve both residents and visitors, positioning itself as a destination for exploring trend culture, unique products, and diverse food options. RetailNews Asia has observed a growing trend among convenience store operators in Asia to evolve their formats, moving beyond basic transactions to offer enhanced consumer experiences, particularly in competitive urban markets.

    Expanding The Retail Experience

    The new 7-Eleven outlet is structured around three core pillars: an innovative retail design, an exploratory shopping journey, and an expanded selection of ready-to-eat food. Its product mix includes a variety of trendy toys, collectibles, and specialty items, alongside the usual food and beverages.

    The store features 7-Eleven’s signature green tones, complemented by soft, natural lighting. An open layout is created by shelving positioned along both side walls, designed to guide customers through different product zones. This deliberate design aims to encourage discovery and longer dwell times.

    Specialty Products And Food Offerings

    A key highlight of the Macau concept store is a dedicated section for collectibles and blind boxes. This zone shows collectible toys, trading cards, and trending accessories, including popular brands like Beyblade X, JOGUMAN, and Sanrio blind boxes. The store also carries exclusive items such as the “7-Eleven meets niko and …” collaboration collection. Also, it will launch Macau-themed clicker toys styled after mahjong tiles, with plans to introduce limited-edition products periodically.

    The food and beverage selection includes 7CAFÉ and Tsat Jai Sik Dong, offering local favorites such as siu mai, fish balls, stirred noodles, and milk tea. Patrick Lui, managing director of 7-Eleven Hong Kong & Macau, indicated that the company sees significant potential in Macau for this elevated retail approach. This strategy mirrors 7-Eleven’s earlier concept store openings in Causeway Bay, Kai Tak, and Tseung Kwan O, which have successfully established themselves as neighborhood attractions.

  • Asia’s Fox Nuts Market Set for Strong Growth, Driven by Healthy Snacking and Online Retail

    Asia’s Fox Nuts Market Set for Strong Growth, Driven by Healthy Snacking and Online Retail

    The global market for fox nuts, also known as makhana, is on a significant upward trajectory, with Asia Pacific leading the expansion. Valued at USD 183.4 million in 2025, the market is projected to reach USD 404.95 million by 2034, growing at a compound annual rate of 9.2% from 2026. Asia Pacific alone accounted for 59.28% of the market share in 2025, highlighting its crucial role in this burgeoning industry.

    Fox nuts, derived from the aquatic plant Euryale ferox, are gaining traction as a nutritious snack. They are rich in protein, antioxidants, minerals, and dietary fiber, and are naturally gluten-free. This nutritional profile makes them popular among health-conscious consumers seeking clean-label and plant-based food alternatives. The demand is further fueled by a growing shift toward healthy snacking, a preference for low-calorie and nutrient-dense options, and the rise of plant-based diets. Flavored, ready-to-eat makhana products are expanding their reach through supermarkets, convenience stores, and e-commerce platforms, particularly in Asia Pacific and North America.

    Innovation And Investment Drive Market Expansion

    Innovations in flavor and product development are key to the fox nuts market’s growth. Manufacturers are developing gourmet fusion snacks, incorporating global flavors like peri-peri, cheese, and chocolate, moving fox nuts from a traditional snack to a premium functional food. This appeals to urban consumers and is leading to expanded product portfolios and increased visibility in modern retail and online channels. For instance, India’s government initiatives, such as the PLI scheme for millet and superfood processing, are encouraging further innovation in fox nut-based products.

    Beyond gourmet offerings, there is a growing demand for fox nuts as a clean-energy snack for work and travel. Their light, fiber-rich, and convenient nature makes them ideal for on-the-go consumption, transitioning them into a mainstream daily snack. Portion-controlled packs and nutrient-enhanced variants are being introduced to cater to busy urban lifestyles. These trends align with health-focused public initiatives, like India’s POSHAN Abhiyaan, which promotes healthier snacking habits.

    Significant investment and funding are also bolstering the market. In 2025, the Government of India allocated USD 54.4 million (INR 476.03 Crore) for a six-year program to modernize the fox nuts ecosystem, focusing on cultivation, processing, value addition, and market development. An additional USD 11.4 million (INR 100 Crore) was invested in the National Makhana Board Initiative to develop processing clusters and improve supply chain infrastructure in Bihar, which accounts for over 80% of India’s makhana production. Private companies like Farmley also secured USD 40 million in Series C funding in May 2025 to scale their packaged fox nuts portfolio and expand distribution.

    Opportunities And Challenges For Retailers

    The increasing demand for convenient and nutritious food presents a strong opportunity for fox nuts in meal replacement formats and functional snacking. Brands are developing fox nut-based protein blends and breakfast mixes, targeting fitness enthusiasts and wellness-focused consumers. This aligns with a global trend of consumers seeking healthy snacks that offer satiety and clean-label nutrition. The global interest in plant-based and minimally processed foods, particularly in North America and Europe, also creates export opportunities for premium fox nut products through health food retailers.

    Despite the positive outlook, the industry faces challenges in standardizing puffing efficiency without compromising texture quality. Much of the processing still relies on manual labor, leading to inconsistencies and higher operational costs. Post-harvest, fox nuts are highly susceptible to moisture reabsorption, which can degrade quality and shorten shelf life, especially in humid regions. Ensuring export compliance with global food safety certifications also remains a hurdle for market players aiming for international expansion. RetailNews Asia has observed similar challenges in scaling artisanal food production across the region, where traditional methods often clash with modern industrial demands and international quality standards.

  • Hyderabad Indian Grill Expands US Presence with New Wisconsin Outlet

    Hyderabad Indian Grill Expands US Presence with New Wisconsin Outlet

    Hyderabad Indian Grill, a restaurant chain established by Minnesota restaurateur Sasi Nimmigadda, has launched its inaugural Wisconsin location in Eau Claire. The new outlet, named Hello Hyderabad, commenced operations on August 5, 2026, at 2831 Hendrickson Drive.

    This expansion marks the first venture for the Hyderabad Indian Grill chain into the Wisconsin market, occupying a 1,500-square-foot space. The restaurant provides both dine-in seating and carry-out services via third-party delivery partners. Its menu features a selection of Indian dishes, including freshly baked naan, curries, butter chicken, samosas, and Hyderabad’s signature biryani. Hello Hyderabad operates daily from 10 am to 11:45 pm.

    Indian Cuisine Sees US Growth

    The opening of Hello Hyderabad contributes to a developing Indian cuisine scene in the Chippewa Valley region of Wisconsin. Another Indian eatery, New India Curry House, is also set to open in Oakwood Mall, taking over a former Five Guys location. This establishment will offer lunch and dinner menus, with prices ranging from approximately $15 to $35 for dinner and under $16 for lunch. These developments highlight a broader trend of increasing demand for diverse international culinary options in regional US markets.

    Across Asia-Pacific, RetailNews Asia observes a similar pattern of regional food concepts expanding beyond their home markets. For instance, numerous Southeast Asian and South Asian restaurant chains have successfully launched outlets in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North America, capitalising on diaspora communities and growing interest in authentic ethnic cuisines. This strategy often involves adapting formats for smaller spaces or integrating with existing retail environments like shopping malls, mirroring the approach taken by Hello Hyderabad and New India Curry House.

    Diverse Culinary Landscape Emerges

    Beyond Indian cuisine, the Eau Claire area is also anticipating new additions that show a varied international culinary landscape. Condesa Grill, a Brazilian and fusion-style steakhouse, plans an October opening in downtown Eau Claire. This 7,000-square-foot restaurant, owned by JP Nunez, will feature a wood-fired grill, prime-grade steaks, fresh seafood, and Latin-inspired dishes curated by a Michelin-trained chef consultant.

    Also, That’s a Wrap: Eats & More recently opened in Chippewa Falls, offering gourmet wraps and planning to introduce Detroit-style pizza. A new Mexican restaurant, Oleo, is also expected to open in Eau Claire at the former Manny’s Cocina location, with a soft opening potentially by the end of August.

  • Nestlé Targets GLP-1 Drug Users with AI-Driven Nutritional Products, Expands Asia Offerings

    Nestlé Targets GLP-1 Drug Users with AI-Driven Nutritional Products, Expands Asia Offerings

    Nestlé is strategically adapting to the growing market of GLP-1 weight-loss drug users, turning a potential threat to packaged food sales into a new business avenue. The company is employing artificial intelligence and advanced nutritional science to create products designed for millions of consumers globally who use medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy.

    The rapid uptake of drugs from pharmaceutical giants like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly has raised concerns among investors about a potential long-term decrease in demand for traditional packaged foods, snacks, and beverages. However, Nestlé views this shift as an opportunity to cater to the specific needs of these consumers, particularly in managing the side effects of rapid weight loss.

    Addressing Side Effects With Targeted Nutrition

    Chief technology officer Stefan Palzer noted that Nestlé is well-positioned to serve this emerging market. The company is using AI and other technologies to analyse clinical research, pinpoint optimal nutrient combinations, and develop products specifically for GLP-1 users. Presentation materials highlighted side effects such as muscle loss and the reduction of facial fat, known as “Ozempic face,” indicating areas where Nestlé’s products can offer support.

    With an estimated 16 million Americans currently using GLP-1 medicines, a number expected to grow significantly, Nestlé’s response includes accelerating research and product development through AI. Its scientists are focusing on the consequences of rapid weight loss, developing items to help consumers manage muscle health, hydration, and overall nutritional intake.

    For example, Nestlé has incorporated collagen protein into products under its Vital Proteins brand to address concerns about skin, hair, and nail health. The company has also patented combinations of proprietary ingredients aimed at reducing the increased hunger some consumers experience after discontinuing GLP-1 treatments. In the United States, Nestlé introduced Boost Advanced Nutrition Shake, containing 35g of protein for muscle health. Crucially for the Asian market, Nestlé has launched Milo PRO High Protein, a higher-protein version of its popular malt drink, in Asia and Australia.

    AI’s Role in Product Innovation

    Artificial intelligence is becoming integral to Nestlé’s product development cycle. The company has created internal systems to sift through scientific literature, simulate consumer behaviour, identify market trends, and assist product developers in navigating a vast database of approximately 120,000 recipes.

    One such tool, an internal platform named Food Genie, helps scientists and developers predict product performance and identify opportunities for reformulation. Palzer explained that AI thrives on data, which a large company like Nestlé possesses in abundance. Nestlé is experimenting with AI-driven consumer simulations to forecast how shoppers will react to new products and health claims before they reach retail shelves. The company is also using AI to monitor social media for emerging consumer trends, helping to distinguish fleeting fads from lasting market shifts.

    Despite Nestlé’s efforts, some nutrition experts, such as Amanda Avery, associate professor in nutrition and dietetics at the University of Nottingham, question the significant advantages of specialized products over whole, fresh foods. Avery pointed out that meat, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, nuts, and pulses remain relatively inexpensive sources of protein and nutrients. However, she acknowledged that marketing often influences consumer choices, suggesting that Nestlé’s targeted products are likely to find a receptive audience.

  • Katrina acquires Japanese cuisine F&B business for S$1.0 million

    Katrina acquires Japanese cuisine F&B business for S$1.0 million

    Katrina Group Ltd. (“Katrina” or the “Group”), an established and recognised Food & Beverage (“F&B”) group specialising in multi-cuisine concepts and restaurant operations, has announced its acquisition of 100.0% of Tomo Izakaya Pte. Ltd. for approximately S$1.0 million.

    Tomo is a company incorporated in Singapore on 23 May 2008. It is principally engaged in the F&B business and currently operates two restaurants serving Japanese cuisine in Singapore, one in Clarke Quay and another in Esplanade Mall.

    The Purchase Price of approximately S$1.0 million comprise the Initial Purchase Price of S$0.6 million and the estimated net tangible assets value of Tomo as at 30 September 2018 of S$0.4 million, as determined from the unaudited management financial statements of Tomo as at 31 August 2018 and mutually agreed between the parties.

    The Purchase Price was derived on a willing-buyer and willing-seller basis and is to be satisfied in cash. The acquisition will be funded through internal resources.

    Commenting on the acquisition, Mr. Alan Goh, Founder, CEO and Executive Chairman of Katrina said, “The acquisition is part of a larger strategy to diversify the Group’s revenue stream across businesses, markets and segments. Sustainable growth is what we hope to achieve and this acquisition is a step in the right direction for us to extend our market reach locally.”

    The acquisition increases the number of restaurants in Singapore operated by the Group to 40 from 38, and the types of cuisines served by the Group to eight from seven.

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  • Vietnam ministries against tax on sugary drinks

    Vietnam ministries against tax on sugary drinks

    Vietnam’s Finance Ministry has proposed a special consumption tax on some soft drinks that it claims contain an unhealthy amount of sugar, but its argument has been dismissed by other ministries.

    The Ministry of Industry and Trade said in a statement that imposing a special consumption tax on soft drinks because they contain sugar is not a convincing enough reason.

    It said the finance ministry needs to give a clearer explanation as to why soft drinks should be subject to higher taxes and why their consumption should be restricted.

    The trade ministry was repeating the same argument made by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), which represents thousands of businesses in Vietnam.

    The VCCI said last October that a special tax should only be imposed after adequate studies have been made on the drinks’ impacts on consumer health and how much the tax could help reduce the risks.

    The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has also demanded scientific evidence of why instant tea and coffee should be subject to the tax.

    “No study has found that the abuse of sweetened tea or coffee causes obesity, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases in Vietnam,” it said.

    The Ministry of Planning and Investment is also against the proposal, which it says could affect the beverage industry and its large workforce.

    In Vietnam, special consumption taxes are levied on items and services considered unhealthy or luxurious such as tobacco, alcoholic drinks and cars.

    The finance ministry has suggested a tax rate of 10-20 percent on sugary drinks from 2019. “The tax will help regulate the consumption of sweetened beverages, and it’s also an international norm,” it said last August.

    A letter from the World Health Organization (WHO) last September endorsed the proposed tax, which is effective in around 40 other countries, it said.

    “The WHO recommends Vietnam impose a tax that can increase the market prices of soft drinks by 20 percent,” it said.

    The ministry also cited a WHO report that shows excessive consumption of sugary drinks can lead to obesity which has been linked to many health risks such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and strokes.

    A study unveiled in June last year found that about 25 percent of Vietnamese adults are overweight or obese. The obesity rate among children under five years old is also rising fast.

    Many Southeast Asian countries have already imposed taxes on sugary drinks, according to the ministry. The current rate is 20-25 percent in Thailand, 5-10 percent in Laos and 10 percent in Cambodia.

    Myanmar, the Philippines and Indonesia are considering a similar tax.i

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  • Retail, food/beverage sales to rise in July: MOEA

    Retail, food/beverage sales to rise in July: MOEA

    On the back of rising demand for the upcoming Ghost Festival, the local retail sector is expected to see sales growth in July, at a time when many retailers have aggressively launched promotional campaigns, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA).

    In addition, continued high temperatures have boosted demand for beverages in the local market, the MOEA said, and this trend is expected to give an additional boost to the local retail sector, as well as the food and beverage sector, in July.

    The forecast was made by the ministry after it released data Friday showing that Taiwan’s retail sales for June stood at NT$335.8 billion (US$10.49 billion), up 0.2 percent from a month earlier and up 0.5 percent from a year earlier.

    The statistics indicate that revenue in the local food and beverage sector hit NT$36.3 billion in June, up 1.9 percent from a year earlier but down 3.0 percent from a month earlier.

    The Ghost Festival (中元節), the 15th day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar, will fall on Aug. 17 this year.

    Local people usually buy foods and other necessities ahead of the festival in preparation for the folkloric rituals.

    In addition, the Taipei Multi-Media Show, which was staged July 1 through July 4, was expected to boost sales of 3C products and eventually raise revenue of the local retail sector, the MOEA said.

    The MOEA said that the hot weather is expected to prompt more and more consumers to buy beverages to keep themselves cool, while the current summer vacation is a peak season for local people to travel, which is expected to boost sales for the local restaurant businesses.

    In June, sales posted by department stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and hypermarkets in the local retain sector gained 3.2 percent, 5.6 percent, 3.0 percent and 5.5 percent, respectively, from a year earlier, while sales of the auto/motorcycle business rose 3.5 percent from a year earlier, the MOEA data shows.

    However, sales of the information and home appliance business in the local retail sector fell 5.6 percent year-on-year in June, the data indicated.

    During the month, sales of the restaurant and beverage businesses in Taiwan rose 2.2 percent and 0.8 percent, respectively, from a year earlier, the MOEA said.

    The MOEA said that sales posted by the local wholesale sector for June gained 3.6 percent from a year earlier to NT$805.8 billion.

    In the first six months of this year, sales of the local retail and food/beverage sectors rose 2.0 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively, from a year earlier, while revenue posted by the wholesale sector fell 5.4 percent year-on-year, the MOEA said.

     

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