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Korean coffee shop chain Barista Caffe Corporation Limited (Barista Caffe) opened its seventh outlet in Hong Kong today (November 11).
Following the success of its sixth store here, which was recently launched in Central in co-operation with famous local bakery Tai Cheong, Barista Caffe has established its latest outlet in Grand Century Place, Mongkok. Named Tai Cheong Bakery, the shop will offer Barista's selection of Italian-style coffee, as well as Tai Cheong's traditional pastries such as egg tarts and Chinese donuts.
The Chairman of Barista Caffe, Mr Alexander Li, explained why the Korean brand has invested in a local bakery in Hong Kong. He said, "We see Hong Kong as an important market for our brand to expand outside of Korea. Since our introduction of Barista to Hong Kong in 2003, we have opened five outlets including a flagship shop in Tseung Kwan O and were looking for opportunities to increase our presence in this vibrant market. We decided to invest in Tai Cheong Bakery, both to preserve the famous icon of Hong Kong food but also to create an innovative concept for Hong Kong food lovers. We have created a new and unique experience for local customers and tourists – enjoying traditional Hong Kong-style bakery culture and Western coffee culture in a relaxing environment."
Mr Li continued,"Barista Caffe intends to continue our partnership with Tai Cheong Bakery. We hope our outlets will become tourist attractions for Hong Kong, providing visitors with a true taste of our distinctive blend of East and West."
At a courtesy visit to the new outlet, the Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong, Mr Mark Michelson, congratulated Barista Caffe on its expansion in Hong Kong.
Mr Michelson said, "We are pleased to see Barista Caffe's continued investments in Hong Kong. Their partnership with Tai Cheong Bakery is a great example of how foreign investors can work together with local companies to create an even better offering. We wish Barista Caffe and Tai Cheong Bakery every success with their partnership in Hong Kong."
Barista Caffe is an Italian-style coffeehouse that offers coffee and refreshments. Established in 2000, Barista Caffe has over 100 outlets in Korea. It first entered the Hong Kong market in 2003. For more information about Barista Caffe, please visit the website at www.baristacaffe.com.hk.
Ends/Friday, November 11, 2005
Issued at HKT 12:35
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