Long before Hong Kong became a global financial hub, its commercial story began with a sweet milestone – Nestlé’s Eagle Brand condensed milk was the first trademark ever registered in the city, back in 1874. Nestlé’s ties to Hong Kong deepened further when it joined the Chamber in 1911. More than 150 years later, Nestlé remains a household name, with generations of Hong Kong families growing up with its products.
Founded in Switzerland in 1866, Nestlé has been in Hong Kong since the 19th century, offering a diverse portfolio, spanning dairy, coffee, breakfast cereals, ice cream, healthcare nutrition, pet care and more.
“This city has always been a special market for Nestlé,” said Simon Cheung, Managing Director of Nestlé Hong Kong. “We’re proud of our heritage here, and we continue to innovate to meet the evolving needs of our consumers.”
Innovation is central to this strategy. Locally inspired products, like the Premium Red Bean Milk Stick, blend familiar flavours with a modern twist, while the iconic Drumstick Cone evolves with new flavours to reflect changing consumer preferences. “It’s about emotional connection,” Cheung explained. “We want our products to resonate with people’s memories while offering something fresh and exciting.”
To address the reshaping of consumer patterns, the company has launched trend-driven products, including NESCAFÉ® Korean Café Collection in aluminium bottles, catering to the growing demand for premium, ready-to-drink coffee. It also collaborates with iconic local brands, including a recent partnership with a fast-food chain to co-create the first-ever NESTLÉ® KITKAT® sundae series. And earlier this year, Nestlé Hong Kong was named the “Official Frozen Confection Supplier” of Kai Tak Sports Park.
“We’re always looking for ways to surprise and delight our consumers,” said Cheung. “Whether it’s through partnerships, new formats or digital engagement, we want to be where our consumers are.”
Technology plays a key role in driving innovation, improving efficiency, and enhancing consumer experiences. The company is actively integrating nutrition technology to develop products that support evolving dietary needs. Robotic process automation (RPA) streamlines customer order processing, improving accuracy and freeing up time for higher-value tasks. The company also leverages platforms like WhatsApp Business to foster direct communication with consumers.
Sustainability is a core commitment, guided by the purpose of using food to improve the quality of life. In 2020, the company introduced its Net Zero Roadmap, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through actions across its value chain. “Businesses can balance profitability with environmental responsibility,” said Cheung. In Hong Kong, sustainability efforts are coordinated through a local Steering Committee led by the Managing Director and departmental heads, embedding sustainable practices into daily operations.
As a member of HKGCC, Nestlé Hong Kong benefits from access to timely market intelligence and policy updates. “The Chamber helps us stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory developments,” Cheung noted. “It’s also a great platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.” The company actively contributes to the Chamber’s Retail & Tourism and Environment & Sustainability committees, supporting initiatives that promote commercial and sustainable growth.
Looking ahead, Nestlé Hong Kong is exploring opportunities in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), focusing on products such as adult milk powder and premium ice cream. “We see strong potential in the GBA,” said Cheung. “Our goal is to bring trusted Hong Kong-made products to a broader consumer base through cross-border e-commerce and, eventually, brick-and-mortar retail.”
Nestlé Hong Kong
HKGCC Membership No. : HKN0034
Year Joined: 1911
Website: www.nestle.com.hk/en