Taiwan's Jhujian group to exit HK market amid weak consumer spending

Taiwanese catering group Jhujian Catering Group is exiting the Hong Kong market, with three branches under its distinct brands to cease operations sequentially by the end of this month.

The group operates three Hong Kong outlets under separate brands: "Jhujian Happy Hot Pot" (築間幸福鍋物), "Yakiniku Smile" (燒肉 Smile) and "Jhujian Sour Cabbage Fish" (築間酸菜魚). The Causeway Bay branch of Jhujian Sour Cabbage Fish has already closed, while the Mong Kok-based Jhujian Happy Hot Pot and Yakiniku Smile will halt operations by the end of November.

In a statement cited by Taiwan’s Central News Agency, Jhujian attributed the decision to prolonged weak consumer spending in Hong Kong. Despite adjusting dining models and marketing strategies to boost customer traffic, the group failed to stem losses effectively.

The company noted its Hong Kong business scale has gradually contracted in recent years, with limited operational efficiency.

After a comprehensive assessment of cost structures, management efficiency and market trends, the group resolved to terminate its Hong Kong subsidiary’s operations and reallocate resources to core markets to enhance overall performance.

Jhujian entered Hong Kong in early 2024, gradually expanding its footprint and establishing a brand cluster in Mong Kok.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Jhujian for a statement.

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