Hong Kong crab specialty shops adapt to mainland shopping trends

Traditional hairy crab specialty shops in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, are adjusting their business strategies to counter the rising trend of residents traveling to mainland China to purchase crabs.

One long-standing establishment, Hung Kee Sam Yang, reported a 10% to 20% decline in business compared to previous years, with sales of smaller, more affordable crabs dropping by approximately 20% to 30%. To mitigate this, the shop has increased its stock of premium, large-sized crabs, known as ‘crab kings’ (weighing 9 to 10 taels), to meet the demand of regular customers and families during the Double Ninth Festival.

Another veteran shop, Cheung Kee Sun Sam Yang, reported stable business levels similar to previous years. The proprietor noted that while large group orders have decreased, smaller orders for home consumption have risen. The shop maintains its competitiveness through a mature online shopping service, which now accounts for 30% to 40% of its revenue, and by emphasizing the superior quality and reliability of crabs sold in Hong Kong compared to those available in the mainland.