1880 Hong Kong club folds after 7 months, accused of owing staff unpaid wages
The Hong Kong branch of a Singapore-based private club, which recently closed its doors after only seven months of operation, has been accused of owing rent and more than 100 employees unpaid wages since April, with the Labour Department receiving requests for help from affected workers.
1880 Hong Kong, located at Swire Properties' office complex Two Taikoo Place in Quarry Bay last Friday announced its immediate cessation of operations, citing 'cash flow difficulties' and failed attempts to raise funds. All memberships and associated privileges were discontinued.
The landlord told the Post that 'rent and other arrears' were still owed but declined to disclose more details due to confidentiality concerns. They have repossessed the premises.
The club, which only opened its doors on November 8 last year, occupied four floors offering event spaces, a gym with spa facilities, and several restaurants.
In an internal letter seen by the Post, founder Marc Nicolson apologised to his employees for the closure, saying the 'deal' they had been trying to close had been unsuccessful.
He said he asked employees to trust him and continue working, as he believed he could raise the capital to save the company.
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