YATA to downsize Sha Tin and Tai Po operations

Japanese lifestyle department store YATA will be scaling down its operations in Sha Tin and Tai Po after the Chinese New Year, indicating a reduction in the scope of its presence in these locations.

According to YATA’s official Facebook and Instagram pages, the cosmetics, sports, fashion and lingerie divisions at the stores in Sha Tin and Tai Po will be closed by 14 February and 19 February respectively.

YATA said the closure of these sections in Sha Tin and Tai Po is part of its business development strategy to present its new look to customers. Meanwhile, the supermarkets will operate as usual.

“The department stores will meet customers with a new look later. YATA will continue to strengthen the selection of supermarkets and household products to bring consumers a better shopping experience,” the statement reads.

As part of the arrangement, the Sha Tin store will undergo renovation after the Lunar New Year. Starting 14 February, the cosmetics counter, leisure and sportswear section and lingerie counters will cease operations. On the other hand, the kitchenware, bathroom products, health products, and small household appliance counters will be relocated to the second floor of the store. 

For the Tai Po store, the cosmetics, leisure and sportswear, kids' clothing, lingerie, luggage, household appliances and toy counters will be closed starting from 19 February. Meanwhile, baby products and health products will be relocated to the second floor of the store. 

A check by MARKETING-INTERACTIVE saw on YATA's Facebook page that the announcement has received 78 comments and 65 shares. While some netizens speculated that the arrangement might be influenced by the growing trend of Hong Kong residents preferring to spend money in mainland China some asked whether the arrangement would lead to layoffs.

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

YATA’s arrangement comes after the emerging trend of HongKongers travelling to mainland Chinese cities such as Shenzhen to shop at large supermarkets such as Sam's Club and Costco. It indicates a shift in consumer behaviour, where individuals seek out cheaper, larger and more diverse shopping options.

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