Retail News CRM

Tag: Promises

  • Animate Revives Anime Merch Magic in Hong Kong: New Store Promises Authentic Japanese Shopping Experience

    Animate Revives Anime Merch Magic in Hong Kong: New Store Promises Authentic Japanese Shopping Experience

    Animate, a popular retailer of Japanese anime merchandise, has made a comeback in Hong Kong by inaugurating a new store in Mong Kok. This move comes a few years after it shut down its previous location.

    The retailer initially launched in Mong Kok back in 2012 and managed to operate for nearly eight years before closing its doors in 2020. Alongside the store closure, Animate Cafe, also recognized as Youme Cafe, ceased operations as well.

    The latest Animate outlet is situated on the fourth floor of the TOP (This Is Our Place) shopping mall in Mong Kok. The company disclosed that the decision to operate the store under a direct management model will permit swifter access to new anime merchandise. This includes not only peripherals but also manga and audiovisual products.

    Additionally, the revamped operation model will expediently hasten product launch timelines. It will also offer customers a shopping experience more akin to Animate’s stores in Japan.

    Animate expressed optimism about the new store serving as a communication hub for anime enthusiasts in Hong Kong. The company anticipates it will attract a larger number of both local and international visitors.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Animate choosing a direct management model for its new store?
    Adopting a direct management model allows Animate to provide faster access to the latest anime merchandise. It also expedites product launch timelines, enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.

    Where is the new Animate store located?
    The new Animate store is located on the fourth floor of the TOP (This Is Our Place) shopping mall in Mong Kok, Hong Kong.

    What does Animate hope for its new store in Hong Kong?
    Animate has great expectations for its new store to become a communication hub for anime fans in Hong Kong. It also aims to attract a larger number of both local and overseas visitors.

  • Gong Cha Exits Singapore Market After Franchise Agreement Ends; Plans For A Revamped Return Underway

    Gong Cha Exits Singapore Market After Franchise Agreement Ends; Plans For A Revamped Return Underway

    Taiwan’s popular milk tea brand, Gong Cha, has ceased operations and shuttered all its outlets island-wide as of October 1. This move follows the expiration of its franchise agreement with Gong Cha Singapore, which has been running the brand’s operations since 2017.

    All the physical stores were abruptly closed, and the brand’s digital presence was also taken down, including its website, social media accounts, and listings on food delivery platforms.

    Kang Puay Seng, Gong Cha Singapore’s CEO, confirmed these developments, expressing his gratitude to customers, staff, and business partners for their support.

    Future Prospects

    Gong Cha’s Global has confirmed plans to re-enter the Singapore market next year. The global CEO, Paul Reynish, stated that the company is currently in the process of selecting a new master franchisee and will relaunch with an updated ‘Gong Cha 2.0’ store concept, which has already been successfully implemented in select international markets.

    Gong Cha initially entered the Singapore market in 2009 but later withdrew due to a franchise dispute. The brand then re-entered the market under a new agreement with its now-former franchisee.

    The decision to exit the Singapore market follows a period of strong global performance for the brand. Earlier this year, Gong Cha reported an impressive US$600 million in system-wide sales for the 12 months ending in December, a milestone attributed to its aggressive international expansion.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the reason for Gong Cha’s exit from the Singapore market?
    Gong Cha’s exit from the Singapore market followed the end of its franchise agreement with Gong Cha Singapore.

    Will Gong Cha return to the Singapore market?
    Yes, Gong Cha Global has announced plans to re-enter the Singapore market in the coming year with a new master franchisee and an updated ‘Gong Cha 2.0’ store concept.

    What has been Gong Cha’s performance in the past year?
    Gong Cha reported strong global performance, with system-wide sales reaching $600 million for the 12 months ending in December. This success is mainly attributed to the brand’s rapid international expansion.