19/07/2022
A week ago today we made the tough decision to close our doors permanently after 16 years of operations. It has taken me a week to be able to gather my thoughts and get through what has possibly been the most painful time in my life both mentally and physically, and for this radio silence I apologize.
Hemingway’s joins the ever-growing list of venues to close down across Hong Kong. The past two and a half years have made it almost impossible to run a food and beverage business here. The lethal combination of Government covid restrictions, a greed driven inflexible landlord and the exodus of clientele sealed our fate.
Live music was what made Hemingway’s tick, accounting for 40% of our revenue. Without Live music as you can imagine finances became very tough. Add to that the many ridiculous, illogical Govt restrictions such as RAT tests at a bar counter, yet no RAT tests at a table 2m away meant no bar patrons and no atmosphere. These restrictions have also been responsible for the exodus of our clientele, many of whom were long term Hong Kong residents but simply ‘had enough’.
Some venues have managed to survive in the city largely due to understanding landlords who realized that they too needed to shoulder some of the burden and give reduced rental relief assistance throughout the two and a half years, to ensure they have a tenant coming out the other side. Sadly this is not the case in Discovery Bay where our landlord insists there was no change in business levels therefore no rental reduction, despite reducing ferries and buses to save costs due to a downturn in business demands amongst many other things. I pray that karma will take care of them!
As a family-owned business as opposed to a large restaurant group, my wife and I have ploughed all of our personal savings into the business on the hope that we were almost through covid and brighter days were ahead. We have amassed huge personal debts that became unbearable and sadly the accounts are all empty. Cash flow has stopped flowing which is the death of any business.
We have taken care of our beloved staff financially, and tried to satisfy as many suppliers as we could but not all will regrettably get their full amount owed. We can only hope that the 16 years of loyal custom accounts for something.
Hong Kong is an expensive city to live in, and with no income we decided to leave for the UK after 32 years in this wonderful city. I wish HK all the best in its future and hope one day to return for a visit.
My parting advice for what it’s worth, to anyone considering opening a food and beverage venue anywhere in Hong Kong…..
ASK WHAT YOUR FUTURE LANDLORD DID FOR THEIR TENANTS DURING THE COVID YEARS. This will give you a very good indication of their character and how you will be treated should we hit tough times.
From Gary, Margie & the amazing Hemingway’s Team we thank you all for the good times and memories. Stay safe……and eat plants!! 🙂
