Hooters Asia puts on bold front in rent tussle

Despite facing eviction from its Lan Kwai Fong location for failing to pay rent, Hooters Asia still plans expansion in Hong Kong.

Legal documents filed with the High Court on Friday on behalf of the landlord, Dor Fook Company, say the US restaurant/bar has failed to pay more than HK$1.13 million (US$145,000) in rent since April despite “repeated demands and requests”.

Meanwhile, Hooters Asia says it still plans four more venues for Hong Kong, despite its sole outlet breaking even for the first time last month.
Hooters signed a 10-year lease for the Wyndham Street venue in April last year, agreeing to pay $330,000 a month for the first year.

Hooters Asia president Daniel Yong, who took over management two months ago, says he is surprised by the legal action as he has already discussed repayment with the landlord. The former manager resigned this year, leaving a “messy accounting system” and unpaid bills, says Yong.