Hong Kong shoppers are rushing to AEON’s Living Plaza at Shek Lei Shopping Centre after the retailer announced the store will shut its doors on July 12, triggering a clearance sale that drops prices to as low as HK$6 per item.
The closure, first flagged by the popular Facebook community page “Aeon Channel” within the “AEON Stores 關注組” group, has sent bargain hunters scrambling to the outlet located at Shop B233, 2/F, Shek Lei Shopping Centre (Phase 2), 110 Tai Loong Street, Kwai Chung. From now until the final day of operation, every product in the store—from Japanese kitchenware and stationery to cleaning supplies and household goods—is marked at half price. What was once a flat HK$12 is now just HK$6, a discount that has drawn long queues and emotional farewells from loyal customers.
A Beloved Bargain Destination Bids Farewell
AEON’s Living Plaza, often referred to as the “HK$12 shop,” has carved a niche among budget-conscious Hong Kongers for its curated selection of Japanese imports. The Shek Lei branch, located in a bustling residential area, has been a go-to for families seeking affordable, high-quality everyday items. The announcement of its closure, shared by the “Aeon Channel” Facebook page, has sparked a wave of nostalgia and urgency.
“It’s really sad to see it go,” one local resident told reporters while browsing the aisles. “I’ve been coming here for years to pick up kitchen gadgets and stationery for my kids. At HK$6, it’s almost impossible to resist stocking up.”
The Clearance Sale: What You Need to Know
The promotion, effective immediately and running through July 12, applies to the entire store. Shoppers can expect to find:
- Japanese kitchenware and cooking tools
- Stationery and office supplies
- Household cleaning products
- Everyday groceries and snacks
- Pet supplies and home organization items
The store operates daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Importantly, the half-price discount can be combined with AEON’s Member Appreciation Day, Company Discount Day, and exclusive member shopping privileges—though it excludes online purchases and other promotional items.
A Changing Retail Landscape
This closure marks another chapter in AEON’s ongoing restructuring of its Living Plaza brand, which operates under the “DAISO JAPAN” banner in some locations. The Shek Lei branch, situated in a residential complex, has been a staple for local families who rely on its affordable Japanese imports. The decision to shut down has raised questions about the sustainability of small-format discount stores in Hong Kong’s competitive retail environment.
Industry analysts note that while AEON’s Living Plaza concept has enjoyed strong loyalty, rising rents and shifting consumer habits—accelerated by e-commerce—are forcing retailers to reassess their physical footprints. The Shek Lei closure follows a pattern of consolidation seen across the sector, with several other Living Plaza locations having shuttered in recent years.
Shopper Sentiment and Scenes from the Store
Reports from the “AEON Stores 關注組” Facebook group show shelves being stripped bare as customers seize the opportunity. One shopper described the scene as “organized chaos,” with families filling baskets with items ranging from bento boxes and cleaning brushes to Sanrio-themed stationery and pet accessories.
“At HK$6, you can’t go wrong,” another customer remarked. “I’m buying extras to store for later—these Japanese products are usually much pricier elsewhere.”
The store’s regular hours of 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM remain in effect, but early visits are recommended as popular categories are expected to sell out quickly.
Terms and Conditions to Note
Shoppers should be aware of the following policies:
- The half-price offer applies only to the Shek Lei branch.
- It can be combined with Member Appreciation Day, Company Discount Day, and exclusive member shopping privileges, but not with other promotions.
- Exchanges are limited to items of equal value; refunds require returning the product and adjusting the discount difference on the receipt.
- The total is calculated after the discounted price.
- Online store items are excluded.
- AEON (Hong Kong) Co., Limited reserves the right of final decision.
Broader Implications for Hong Kong Retail
The closure of another Living Plaza outlet underscores a broader trend in Hong Kong’s retail sector. As e-commerce giants like Taobao and Pinduoduo gain traction, physical stores—especially those in mid-tier shopping centers—face mounting pressure to justify their overheads. AEON has been gradually consolidating its smaller-format stores, focusing instead on its larger JUSCO supermarkets and online channels.
For local shoppers, the loss of a convenient, affordable option is tangible. “These shops are a lifeline for families on a budget,” said retail analyst Dr. Karen Leung of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. “The closure reflects a difficult balancing act for retailers: maintaining physical presence while adapting to digital competition.”
What’s Next for Shoppers?
For those hoping to take advantage of the clearance, time is limited. The sale runs until July 12, and stock is expected to dwindle rapidly. Shoppers are advised to visit early in the day for the best selection.
Beyond the Shek Lei closure, AEON continues to operate multiple Living Plaza and DAISO JAPAN outlets across Hong Kong. The company has not announced further closures, but industry watchers suggest that more consolidation may be on the horizon as the retail giant refines its strategy.
For now, the message is clear: if you’ve been eyeing Japanese kitchen tools, cute stationery, or budget-friendly home essentials, the Shek Lei store offers a final chance to grab them at unbeatable prices. After July 12, this chapter of Hong Kong’s discount retail story will close for good.