AS Watson and HSBC have grown together since the very beginnings of Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a renowned commercial and financial hub, and that status can be traced to the 19th century, when early entrepreneurs laid the foundations for the city's success with some of its most enduring household names. Among these is AS Watson, established in 1841 – as The Hong Kong Dispensary, with just a single shop.
Over the following decades, the company's significance in Hong Kong grew alongside the city's rapid development. AS Watson was appointed chemist to the Hong Kong governor in 1869, and inspired by the need to have safe, clean water during the plague of the late 1890s, the company established Watsons Water in 1903.
Today, as the world's largest international health and beauty retailer, AS Watson Group operates more than 17,000 stores in 30 markets around the globe, with some of the most recognisable brands including Watsons, ParknShop, Fortress, Superdrug and many more. All share a strong focus on customer experience, innovation and community.
For Malina Ngai, group CEO of AS Watson, much of the company's success can be attributed to its long-standing partnership with HSBC, the Hong Kong-founded bank which celebrates its 160th anniversary this year. 'The story between AS Watson and HSBC goes back 160 years,' Ngai says. 'In fact, AS Watson appeared on HSBC's very first customer ledger in 1865. I believe that trust, understanding and shared experiences have defined the relationship over the last 16 decades.'
Beyond sharing values, both AS Watson and the bank have grown together to become deeply ingrained in Hong Kong society. 'We have been touching the lives of different generations in Hong Kong through our retail offerings … and HSBC has also been part of the everyday life of Hong Kong,' Ngai adds.
Together, the two Hong Kong stalwart brands strive to make a positive impact, contributing to a better future for the city and beyond while supporting their customers. 'We're proud to call Hong Kong home, so our shared success has grown from here,' Ngai says. 'For both HSBC and AS Watson, we remain as committed to Hong Kong as ever. It's this shared purpose that strengthens our bond, taking it beyond just business.'
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