Nicol C.H.Yau, General Manager of marketing department, Hutchison Whampoa Property. Photo: Courtesy of Hutchison Whampoa Property

The commercial project The Metropolitan Tianjin, developed by Hutchison Whampoa Property and Cheung Kong Holdings, will hold the opening ceremony for its shopping mall, Metropolitan Plaza Tianjin, in the fourth quarter of 2014. Situated on Nanjing Lu atop the bustling Yingkoudao Subway Station, Metropolitan Plaza endeavors to create a brand-new international fashion platform in Tianjin. In this exclusive interview with Metropolitan (MB), Nicol C.H.Yau, General Manager of marketing department, Hutchison Whampoa Property, talked about how to run a large urban complex shopping center and his plans for further development.

MB: What is the commercial position of Metropolitan Plaza Tianjin?

Yau: Metropolitan Plaza is committed to forming a diversified development covering retail, entertainment, F&B (food & beverage), cinemas and so on. With the positioning of "Youth and Fashion," we are sparing no effort to introduce both internationally renowned brands and fast-fashion brands, many of which will be making their debut in Tianjin. Meanwhile, we will introduce various restaurants to further enhance food quality and selection for the business crowd. Moreover, we will introduce the first cinema on Nanjing Lu. 

MB: What is its competitive advantage compared with other entertainment and leisure shopping centers?

Yau: In terms of location, Metropolitan Plaza lies in the heart of Nanjing Lu, where the traffic facilities provide great convenience for customers. The Nanjing Lu business circle is the most comprehensive business center in Tianjin, serving millions of consumers, including subway commuters, the white-collar crowd, and upscale residential groups. We are taking the step of bringing a new shopping experience and creating a "one-stop" center for fashion, F&B, entertainment, and shopping at Nanjing Lu. The scale is unprecedented. At the same time, the project will adhere to a sound strategy and our abundant experience in commercial operations, introducing Hong Kong-style management and operation concepts.

MB: Can you tell us more about the Hong Kong-style operations and management style?

Yau: First, we are adopting a multifaceted integration strategy, with brands that range from international to trendy, and restaurants that range from high-end restaurants to new gourmet experiences with great food and great value. Second, the store layout is flexible, improving the shopping experience. Third, we will make bold changes and innovations to market promotions. We will increase the popularity through different types of activities. With our group's solid success with commercial projects all over the world, we are confident of creating a brand-new mall experience in Tianjin very soon.

MB: As a one-stop center for fashion, F&B, entertainment, and shopping, what kind of experiences will it provide?

Yau: Metropolitan Plaza aims to present a new shopping experience for our customers in Tianjin, enabling them to enjoy their leisure time with friends and family. People who live in big cities often experience a lot of stress. This will be a good place to decompress. Here, you can go shopping, taste different cuisines, and even watch a wonderful film. Moreover, with its very spacious atrium that is 28 meters in diameter and its soaring six floors, it can support innovative mall activities and tenants' business needs. Every day of the week, Metropolitan Plaza will be the ultimate shopping and dining destination for business and leisure.