Adrian Cheng, former scion of Hong Kong’s NWD, expands K11 brand in Xiamen

Adrian Cheng Chi-kong, former heir apparent to Hong Kong’s New World Development (NWD), is expanding his K11 cultural retail business in mainland China, launching a…

Adrian Cheng Chi-kong, former heir apparent to Hong Kong’s New World Development (NWD), is expanding his K11 cultural retail business in mainland China, launching a venture of his own as his family’s property group grapples with heavy debt.

Xiamen K11 Select, developed by Cheng’s K11 by AC Group along with state-owned Xiamen Rail Transit Group in the city in the southeastern province of Fujian, has attracted more than 2 million visits since its opening on September 22, with sales rising 32 per cent week on week, according to a statement on Monday.

With 95,000 square metres (more than 1 million square feet) of space, the complex houses around 200 brands, including about 80 making their national, provincial or regional debuts.

“China’s first wetland conservation-focused retail, art and cultural tourism landmark in Xiamen has delivered strong operating results since opening, signifying the success of the ‘cultural commerce’ model developed over the past 16 years,” Cheng said at an opening ceremony.