Opatra London Distances Itself from Hong Kong Distributor Over Deceptive Sales Allegations
SingTao · 3 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Opatra London's UK headquarters has distanced itself from its Hong Kong distributor after a viral video emerged showing a woman kneeling and crying outside the beauty retailer's Sha Tin outlet, claiming she was deceived into paying approximately HK$60,000 for skincare products. The UK company confirmed it initiated an independent review and stated that Hong Kong stores are operated independently under a distribution agreement, with the distributor solely responsible for its sales practices. Both affected branches in Sha Tin and Yoho Mall have suspended operations as police and Customs investigate the allegations.
Key Points
- A woman was filmed kneeling and crying outside the Opatra London store in New Town Plaza, Sha Tin, claiming she was cheated into paying HK$60,000, including HK$20,000 in interest
- Police confirmed receiving a report and the Customs and Excise Department is separately following up the case
- Both Opatra London branches in Sha Tin and Yoho Mall in Yuen Long suspended operations on January 16
- Sayles Retail, the Hong Kong distributor, denied fraudulent sales but offered a partial refund of HK$16,000, claiming the customer had "repayment ability issues"
- The UK parent company stated the Hong Kong distributor's statement was issued without authorization and that the distributor is solely responsible for its own staff and sales practices
- The Consumer Council said it had not received a complaint from the customer and urged consumers to be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics
Why It Matters
The incident has intensified scrutiny of sales practices in Hong Kong's beauty retail sector, occurring as the government concludes its consultation on regulating prepayment consumer contracts, potentially prompting tighter industry oversight .
The incident has intensified scrutiny of sales practices in Hong Kong's beauty retail sector, occurring as the government concludes its consultation on regulating prepayment consumer contracts, potentially prompting tighter industry oversight .