Hong Kong congee chain closure: what options do unpaid workers have?

Ocean Empire Food Shop, a popular 33-year-old congee restaurant chain, stunned Hongkongers with its abrupt closure of its outlets, leaving more than 100 employees in limbo over unpaid wages.

The Post explores how workers can protect themselves in case of their employers’ insolvency.

1. What happened to the Ocean Empire congee chain?

The restaurant chain, held by Ocean Empire International, told employees about its decision to shut all its seven outlets and go into liquidation in a letter on Wednesday night, blaming worsening operating and financial conditions for the closure.

It also told employees to file claims for outstanding wages, payment in lieu of notice, accrued annual leave and severance pay, and to consult the Labour Department regarding their legal rights.

On Thursday, the department said it received requests for help from more than 80 staff members seeking outstanding wages and related payments of HK$8 million (US$1 million).

More than 100 employees have also sought help from a union, with up to 20 imported workers from mainland China facing eviction from their dormitory and anxious about being sent home without collecting unpaid wages.