Catering industry expects 20 pc increase in business during Olympic Games

The catering industry anticipates a 15-20 percent increase in business throughout the Olympic period as more Hong Kong residents visit malls to support local athletes.

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Many malls are now broadcasting key matches from the Paris Olympics. Simon Wong Ka-wo, president of the Hong Kong Federation of Restaurants and Related Trades, noted on a radio program that an investigation conducted in different areas on July 28 found increased foot traffic in certain malls, with restaurants showing televised events experiencing a surge in customers.

Wong estimated a 20 percent increase in business revenue yesterday alone and projected a 15-20 percent increase throughout the Olympics.

Fung Wing-yan from Sun Hung Kai Properties' leasing department observed greater local enthusiasm for the event this year, reporting a 10 percent increase in visitor flow compared to the previous weekend.

The Hong Kong team's recent success in international tournaments has contributed to increased mall traffic. Fung believes this change was influenced by the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, as locals enjoyed watching events together in malls, leading to higher viewership compared to previous Olympics.

In response, many malls have extended their opening hours to 3 am, with some remaining open until 5 am.

Fung added that while some tenants may not be able to extend their hours, they still support and coordinate with the event. Many stores quickly introduced celebration deals following fencer Vivian Kong Man-wai's gold medal win in the women's individual épée at the Paris Olympics.