The Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival, which commenced on October 23 and runs until October 27, has proven resilient in the face of Typhoon Trami. Despite heavy rains and adverse weather conditions, vendors reported significant revenue growth, with many experiencing double or even triple-digit increases compared to last year. Conte Chung Nam-kwok, CEO of Maple International Enterprise, highlighted a remarkable 200% increase in sales during the festival [332784f0].
This year's festival features 300 stalls representing 35 countries, showcasing a diverse array of wines and culinary delights. The Hong Kong Tourism Board estimated that attendance would reach approximately 150,000 visitors, an increase from 140,000 last year, indicating a strong interest in the event despite the weather challenges [332784f0].
Roger Law Chi-kit from the SkyCity Marriott Hotel noted that transactions nearly doubled on Saturday compared to Friday, demonstrating that the festival's appeal remained strong even in inclement weather. Bacchus Fine Wines also reported a 15% increase in business during this period [332784f0].
The festival's expanded offerings include a larger exhibition area dedicated to mainland Chinese wines, which has doubled in size from the previous year, featuring 22 booths showcasing products from 29 wineries. Grace Li Lai-yin, a key figure in the wine industry, emphasized the improved quality of Chinese wines and Hong Kong's role as a gateway for international wine markets [8776af77].
The event not only promotes local and international wines but also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and tourism, reinforcing Hong Kong's status as a vibrant culinary destination. Over 8,000 cruise passengers were invited to the festival, further enhancing its profile as a major tourist attraction [332784f0].
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and shifts in consumer behavior, the festival aims to provide affordable tasting opportunities for both residents and tourists, making it an accessible event for wine enthusiasts [8776af77].