Zeman started his entrepreneurial career at the tender age of 10, when he traded clothing between Hong Kong and Canada. Sure enough, Zeman made his first million at the age of 19 by importing to and selling in Canada women’s sweatshirts manufactured in Hong Kong. After being lured by the great potential here, he decided to relocate to Hong Kong, where he has lived since.
In the early 1980s, when Zeman was still in the fashion trading industry in Hong Kong, he realized there was a lack of Western restaurants where he could bring his business partners to. He decided to open his first resto-bar, California, in Lan Kwai Fong, which was just a narrow street back then. California became a roaring success, which led him to buy more properties in the neighbourhood, resulting in Lan Kwai Fong as we know it today – one of the most popular tourist, entertainment & lifestyle spots in Hong Kong.
Apart from property development and hotel management, Lan Kwai Fong Group is also involved in various other businesses including movie production & distribution, lifestyle private equity investment, innovative technology, themed attractions, and digital entertainment platform LKFtv, which all form an all-inclusive ecosystem of connectivity.
In order to maintain its competitiveness, Lan Kwai Fong Group joined the Chamber family in 2003. “It’s imperative for us to stay connected and informed on the latest developments and opportunities across a wide range of industries. There’s no doubt that HKGCC, a well-established association with strong networks in the business community, is one of the best platforms for that in Hong Kong,” said Zeman.
Zeman has also been a member of the Chamber’s General Committee since 2005.
Besides business, Zeman contributes much of his time to public service in Hong Kong. In 2001, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace, and in 2004, was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star by the Chief Executive of Hong Kong. Seven years later in 2011, he was awarded the Grand Bauhinia Medal, the highest award in Hong Kong honors system, for his significant contributions to the well-being of the city. “I just love the people, culture and opportunities here in Hong Kong,” concluded Zeman.
Company: Lan Kwai Fong Holdings Ltd
HKGCC Membership No.: HKL0457
Established: 1996
Website: www.lankwaifong.com