6 minute read
FIVE MINUTES WITH
Five minutes with Ben Hui
Nicole Slater meets the founder of homegrown eco-sneaker label LONO
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“My passion for shoemaking comes from my grandfather who opened one of the first shoe factories in Hong Kong back in 1950.” Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, Ben Hui joined the footwear industry over ten years ago and has overseen the production of shoes in high street retailers across America.
After moving to Hong Kong from Canada, Hui took some time out to backpack across South East Asia and was inspired to look back at his work and consider how he could contribute towards a healthier planet.
He left his career in fast fashion to explore the opportunities sustainable and eco-friendly materials could provide for the footwear industry. “With Amazon and Taobao, everything comes fast and cheap. Sales are mainly driven by marketing not by need or quality,” he says. Hui decided to strip the shoe design back to its roots, to the sagebrush bark sandals which date back to around 8,000 BC. The sandals were originally made from shredded sagebrush bark, which Hui was able to turn into fine yarn using modern technology.
Once he had found the right eco-friendly materials, Hui set to work on the design and manufacturing process, making sure they also included sustainable practices. “I decided on a zero-inventory retail mode where we make the exact quantity that will be sold from pre-orders taken the month before.” By following this retail model, Hui eliminated any waste from overstocking and reduced manufacturing and storage costs.
While many of us are starting to be more mindful about our everyday wastage, Hui believes, “the biggest issue in Hong Kong is waste management. Everyone can throw away anything anywhere anytime, whereas other countries including Korea have very strict rules. We also need a comprehensive system for recycling to work hand in hand with garbage disposal policies.”
After almost three years, Hui has finally perfected his product and brand, LONO, a plant-based sneaker designed for a sockless and eco-conscious lifestyle. “Taking its name from the Hawaiian deity, associated with agriculture, music and peace, the shoe represents life without compromises. Most people consider LONO to be just another eco-product but what makes us different is how we maximize the potential properties of natural organic materials and translating them into shoes with remarkable functionality,” says Hui.
Having founded his brand via the Kickstarter crowdfunding platform, Hui recommends aspiring entrepreneurs use similar platforms when starting a business. “It’s the best way to develop a brand identity and to better understand the market such as demographics and target audience.”
lonowear.com
What are three things you do daily to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle?
Walk and cycle to places when possible, eat less meat and use reusable coffee mug.
Summer in the city
Nicole Slater rounds up where to be and be seen this season
Hit the beach
Hong Kong is not all skyscrapers and city lights. Venture out into the New Territories or to one of the outlying islands to experience some of the best beaches this city has to offer.
Big Wave Bay Beach
local surfers. Smaller than neighbouring Shek O and easily accessible by road, this beach has all the facilities you need including a cafe, showers, toilets, barbecue pits and a car park. Make a day of it and hike the Dragon’s Back that morning and reach the beach in time for the peak tanning hours.
Tai Long Sai Wan (Sai Wan Beach)
Considered one of the most beautiful places in Hong Kong, this secluded spot requires a hike through Sai Kung East Country Park to reach its powdery sand and clear waters. Sai Wan is one of four beaches that make up Tai Long Wan Bay and is a popular surfing and overnight camping spot. While you’re there, head up the hill to Sai Wan Rock Pools for a refreshing dip.
Cheung Sha Beach
Located in southern Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong’s longest beaches stretching from Lower Cheung Sha to Upper Cheung Sha. Since Covid this beach has become a
popular weekend escape for residents looking to experience some holiday vibes, with beachside restaurants including Bathers and Longisland.
Treat yourself to a staycation
Just because you can’t travel doesn’t mean you need to give up your five-star getaways. Many hotels are offering unique themed staycation deals to take away your travel blues.
Island Shangri La
Keep your little ones entertained with Island Shangri La’s four-day staycation package which includes a range of family-friendly activities across the city. Enjoy a round of Nature Bingo at Hong Kong Park, a discovery journey to Sharp Island, family art jamming and a guided night hike, starting at $20,800.
shangri-la.com
Kerry Hotel
While guests currently can’t stay at the Kerry Hotel (as it is a quarantine hotel), you can enjoy a unique daycation package which includes a day pass to the swimming pool and a three-course lunch. If you really want to
feel like you’re on holiday, they even offer a three-hour free-flow drinks package for $350.
shangri-la.com
Grand Hyatt Hong Kong
Celebrating the red white and blue this summer, Grand Hyatt is offering a themed staycation with a welcome amenity of Jack Daniel’s Whiskey and Michter’s Bourbon, an American themed dinner set menu for two at Grand Hyatt Steakhouse, daily breakfast and late checkout, starting at $3,100 per night.
hyatt.com
Book a boat trip
There’s nothing better than being out on the open water. Hong Kong offers a range of boat trips from yachts to classic Chinese junks to help you set sail into the sunset.
Aqua Luna
Set sail across Victoria Harbour on one of Hong Kong’s few remaining red-sail Chinese junks. On Fridays and Sundays, guests can enjoy an afternoon tea set and cruise around the harbour for $399 per person. If you fancy a longer trip, Aqua Luna also offers day cruises to Stanley every Saturday from $295. aqualuna.com.hk
M Yachts
If you fancy a bit of luxury, M Yachts provides a concierge team and personalised itineraries for the perfect day at sea. The company has multiple yachts available to hire for a day or even two, including their sleek 20-metre long Peninsula Yacht which is kitted out with a Bose sound system and five crew members. myachts.life
Hong Kong Junks
Offering a true Hong Kong Junk experience, Hong Kong Junks is a go-to for any occasion. Each junk holds up to 40 guests and travels to a range of destinations including Southside and the New Territories. Best of all, the company is committed to being plastic-free, with reusable cutlery, plates and glasses on board.
hongkongjunks.com.hk
Star Ferry
While you may know of the classic Star Ferry which provides cheap transportation to and from Hong Kong Island, this summer the classic boat has been given a makeover. Hop aboard the stylish new boat and enjoy a sunset or evening cruise around Victoria Harbour, for it’s staycation harbour cruise.
