Hundreds of customers affected as Hong Kong yoga chain Hotstone abruptly closes

Hotstone, a popular yoga chain in Hong Kong, abruptly closed its doors, leaving hundreds of members affected. Some customers claim the company misled them by encouraging purchases of discount packages just days before the closure. One customer, Chan, received the shutdown notice from Hotstone's WhatsApp number just an hour prior to her scheduled class at the Kwun Tong studio.

According to law firm Cheung & Co, Hotstone cited "business operations and other actual circumstances" as the reason for its closure. Hotstone will cease operations after closing hours on Wednesday, with the company providing contact details for customers to submit claims and file applications. The company assured customers it would pay September wages and refund September class fees by October 5.

However, Chan doubts the company's sincerity, noting that she only attended 19 out of 63 sessions purchased for HK$11,880. Some customers suspect the company of scamming them, with allegations of extra sessions being pushed on new members. Police, customs, and the Consumer Council have been contacted by dissatisfied customers seeking refunds through credit card call centers.

Customs and Excise Department authorities are investigating for potential breaches of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance.