Customs Searches Opatra London Linked Office Amid Aggressive Sales Allegations
SingTao · 3 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Customs conducted a search on July 18 at an address in Sheung Wan's Wing On Centre linked to cosmetics retailer Opatra London, following allegations of aggressive sales practices targeting vulnerable customers. The investigation involves suspected violations of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, specifically regarding intimidatory commercial practices. Six complaints have been received with reported losses between HK$1,800 and HK$100,000, all from middle-aged or elderly victims. The beauty chain's four local branches have ceased operations while authorities pursue the case.
Key Points
- A 58-year-old woman claimed she was deceived into spending over HK$60,000 at Opatra London's Shatin branch in July, prompting initial police involvement before the case was referred to Customs .
- Customs officers visited the registered address at Unit 16, Wing On Centre, 111 Des Voeux Road Central, discovering it to be merely a secretarial company's office with no actual business activity .
- The retailer is operated by Sayles Retail Limited, and its four branches in Shatin, Yuen Long, and Causeway Bay have all suspended operations as of July 18 .
- UK headquarters in London issued a statement distancing itself, stating the Hong Kong stores are independently operated by a local distributor under a franchise agreement .
- Customs officials are actively pursuing the company's responsible persons and employees; no arrests have been made yet .
Why It Matters
The case highlights growing concerns about aggressive sales tactics targeting vulnerable consumers, particularly elderly shoppers, at beauty and cosmetics retail outlets across Hong Kong. If sufficient evidence is gathered, this could result in criminal prosecution under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, potentially setting a precedent for similar future cases involving high-pressure sales in the beauty industry .
The case highlights growing concerns about aggressive sales tactics targeting vulnerable consumers, particularly elderly shoppers, at beauty and cosmetics retail outlets across Hong Kong. If sufficient evidence is gathered, this could result in criminal prosecution under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance, potentially setting a precedent for similar future cases involving high-pressure sales in the beauty industry .