Numerous citizens arrived at various branches of Taipan Bread & Cakes, hoping to grab the baked goods one final time, only to met with disappointment as the bakery chain had ceased operations with immediate effect.
A patron, surname To, remarked that he had been a regular visitor to the bakery for several decades since childhood and expressed sorrow over its closure.
He specifically highlighted the fond memories of the bakery's renowned snow skin mooncakes, stating "They were pioneers in making them."
While acknowledging the business challenges posed by the highly competitive market, he noted that Hong Kong offers a wide array of bakeries, ensuring that customers have options to choose from.
When inquired about the potential impact of the bakery's closure on the collective memory of Hongkongers, customer Ma stated, "The wheels of time keep turning and life goes on."
Ma added that there may be new bakeries emerging, and those that do must continue to innovate in order to thrive in the market.
Meanwhile, a customer surnamed Wong said he witnessed both the opening and closing of Taipan's branch in North Point, "These are difficult times; businesses everywhere are closing."
The sentiment was echoed by Dalni, a Filipino domestic helper who arrived at the King's Road store for white bread as usual, only to leave empty-handed.
(Nathan Leung and Khan Heeba Lazmi)
