Struggling Hong Kong bars hope lucky draw will provide shot in arm but Lan Kwai Fong’s Allan Zeman urges them to look beyond ‘desperate’ measures

A Hong Kong bar operators’ group has launched a lucky draw with HK$500,000 (US$63,930) worth of prizes as part of its efforts to tackle slumping business, but a nightlife magnate has urged industry players to look beyond such “desperate” moves and offer premium services and experiences instead.

Chin Chun-wing, chairman of the Hong Kong Bar and Club Association, on Tuesday evening revealed “rescue measures” aimed at enticing local drinkers after firing its first shot – a lucky draw – on May 1, as the industry’s receipts in the first quarter dropped 17.8 per cent year on year.