Airport Authority awards more retail licences

(HONG KONG, 17 November 1998) --The Airport Authority (AA) has awarded four more retail licences at Hong Kong SkyMart, the world-class shopping complex at the passenger terminal of the new Hong Kong International Airport. Alfred Dunhill Asia Pacific Limited has won a licence to operate an airside shop in the East Hall of the passenger terminal. The style of the new Alfred Dunhill shop which is 1,100 square feet, is based on the international store design and will hold the full Alfred Dunhill range of products including: men's fashion, golf wear, leather collections, timepieces, jewellery accessories, writing instruments and luxury gift items. Alfred Dunhill is a prestigious and widely recognised men's luxury brand. Founded in 1893 in London, Alfred Dunhill operates 123 outlets in 24 countries worldwide. Currently Alfred Dunhill has seven outlets in Hong Kong in exclusive shopping malls and hotels. Aji Ichiban Company Ltd and Wing Wah Cake Shop Ltd have each won one licence to operate one landside retail unit on the Departures Check-in Level of the terminal, to sell packaged foods. Both operators are existing retail licensees at Hong Kong SkyMart. Aji Ichiban, established in 1993, is a leading snack food name which has been enjoying widespread popularity in the local market. Currently, it operates 67 outlets located at major shopping centres, housing estates, railway stations etc. in various districts of Hong Kong. This packaged food licence allows Aji Ichiban to sell preserved dried food, confectionery, biscuits and nuts etc. Wing Wah Cake Shop Ltd. is a subsidiary of Wing Wah Food Manufactory Ltd. which has been operating in Hong Kong for 48 years. Wing Wah is a very well-established brand locally as well as internationally for traditional Chinese bakery products and is currently operating 17 outlets in Hong Kong, including one at the new airport. It has been exporting packaged foods under its brand name to over 60 countries and cities worldwide. Wing Wah will be selling a variety of traditional "Chinese goodies and craftsmanship" including Chinese bakery foods, confectionery, mooncakes, preserved sausages, wedding cakes, etc. at Hong Kong SkyMart. The fourth licence was awarded to Victorinox Hong Kong Limited to operate a specialty shop that sells multi-functional tools, pliers, knife/pen sets, flashlights, manicure implements, compasses and unique items as souvenirs or for personal use. Victorinox is the manufacturer of original Swiss Army Knife, which has been sold for more than 100 years worldwide. It has widespread presence in other international airports. "The Authority is very pleased with the award of these four licences, the first awarded since airport opening in July. We have received encouraging responses for all these licences. This is a strong reinforcement of the vibrancy and viability of Hong Kong SkyMart. The four operators are all quality retailers. Not only will they add to our well-balanced mix of retail outlets, but they will also be offering professional and creative operations to fulfil the "East meets West" theme of Hong Kong SkyMart," said Mr B S Chow, AA General Manager - Commercial Division. The licence terms for the four licences are from 59 to 61 months. The Authority invited tenders in September and tenders closed on 20 October. Notes: Landside - non-restricted area accessible by public Airside - restricted area Ref. PR-399