The current COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong has led to the permanent or temporary closure of many stores, but popular lifestyle chain AbouThai is going against the tide with the launch of a convenience store concept.
The chain — which has 24 department stores across the city, mostly in shopping malls, selling snacks, and personal care and lifestyle products from Thailand — recently announced it would be looking for street-level shops across Hong Kong for the convenience stores.
In a Facebook post, it also made a call for investors.
“We welcome you to talk to us about this big plan for this city hit by the pandemic, to give a little positive energy to Hong Kong and Hongkongers to bravely live together,” the post read.
The chain said it would also seek franchisees for its convenience stores in the future with details coming at a later date.
Many Facebook users said they will support the new convenience stores and hoped there will be one in their neighborhood.
“No more monopolies!” said one Facebook user.
Another said the chain always “takes care of Hongkongers’ needs”.
Others expressed excitement over the decision to open stores on street level.
Since the launch of a vaccine pass last Thursday, those unjabbed have been barred from entering shopping malls and department stores. However, they can still visit street-level shops and convenience stores.
