Taipan Bread & Cakes, known for pioneering snow skin mooncakes, announced on June 24 that it would cease operations across all locations. Employees reported that the company held an overnight meeting to transfer cash from various branches back to headquarters before deciding to close down. However, staff criticized the company for being irresponsible, as they are owed wages, with unions indicating that approximately 120 employees have sought assistance.
At the office in San Po Kong, employees attempted to enter with identification in the morning but were unsuccessful. A staff member who worked at the company for five years stated that the company had been delaying salary payments, owing rent, and not paying contractors' bills, but they did not expect a sudden announcement of closure.
According to information on the official website, the company still has 12 branches, but the Mong Kok and Tsuen Wan locations were not operating. Notices were posted on the gates, stating that they had faced many unpredictable and irresistible shocks recently, forcing them to cease operations. They expressed gratitude for customers' support over the years and apologized for the inconvenience caused. A union is assisting employees with the issue of unpaid wages.
The Secretary-General of the Hotel, Food & Beverage Employees Association mentioned that colleagues received a group notification around 11 or 12 last night, stating that the company would close all operations on June 24. "There are indeed cases of unpaid wages; people who contacted the union a few days ago are still awaiting their May salaries, and now they face immediate dismissal, leaving them owed 23 days' pay for this month."
With a history of 41 years, the bakery pioneered snow skin mooncakes, creating a trend that attracted many competitors. However, it has recently faced financial difficulties. The Labour Department stated that it had received requests for assistance from employees and would conduct a criminal investigation. If sufficient evidence is found, prosecution will be pursued. A union is helping affected employees seek assistance from the Labour Department.
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