Hotstone Yoga closure losses rise to HK$7.8 million as 694 customers file reports
Losses linked to the abrupt closure of Hotstone Yoga have risen to nearly HK$8 million (US$1 million), with close to 700 reports filed by affected customers in Hong Kong, according to authorities. The Customs and Excise Department said that as of 6pm on Sunday, it had received 694 reports relating to the yoga chain, involving service contracts worth about HK$7.8 million. The Consumer Council said…
Hotstone Yoga's abrupt closure has resulted in financial losses of approximately HK$8 million, with nearly 700 customers filing reports in Hong Kong, according to the Customs and Excise Department. The Consumer Council has received 416 complaints, with claimed losses totaling HK$5.42 million. The company, which had been operating for over a decade, announced its immediate shutdown citing "business operations and other actual circumstances" requiring careful consideration.
Hotstone Yoga previously managed seven studios across Hong Kong, offering yoga, dance, and fitness classes. Some customers reported being pressured to buy course packages, with prices reaching up to HK$29,700 for 180 classes before the company's closure. Customs launched an investigation into the matter, arresting a 61-year-old director on suspicion of accepting payments in violation of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance.
The department is examining the company's financial and operational situation prior to the closure, as well as any unusual sales activity. Hotstone Yoga promised to pay employees' September wages and refund class fees for that month by October 5, but doubts remain among some customers regarding refunds, prompting them to seek assistance from authorities and the Consumer Council.
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