The World of Hospitality Issue 17 2016 | Page 36

36 the World Of Hospitality Hakkasan Group Hakkasan Group Announces Ling Ling Oslo As Part Of Ongoing Global Expansion EXPANSION INTO NORWAY FOCUSES ON LING LING AS A KEY DEVELOPMENT ASSET IN THE PORTFOLIO. million people annually, expected to rise to 15 million by 2017, and is one of the most popular destinations in the city. Hakkasan Group, the global hospitality company, today announced plans to open its Ling Ling restaurant in Oslo, Norway in April 2017 in partnership with Fursetgruppen Restaurant Group and Norwegian Property. With significant investment in the site it demonstrates a continuation of Hakkasan Group’s business strategy of taking its brand portfolio into new high-growth markets across the world. Inspired by the izakaya concept made popular in the East, Ling Ling is the latest edition to the expanding restaurant portfolio of Hakkasan Group. It promises an innovative cocktail list, small plates of Cantonese dishes and an eclectic electronic soundtrack – creating a unique dining experience. Ling Ling Oslo will launch in the newly renovated Aker Brygge Marina on the Oslo Fjord waterfront and will feature indoor dining as well as a stunning bar and rooftop terrace. Aker Brygge is visited by 12 With existing sites in Mykonos and soon to be in Marrakech, Ling Ling restaurants are adapted and designed to fit and respect the locale while drawing on the Hakkasan brand DNA. In keeping with this, the new site in Oslo will follow local design infused with Hakkasan signature moments. Founded in the UK, Hakkasan Group is headquartered in both London and Las Vegas with over 50 establishments across the US, Europe, Middle East, and Asia; with a projected 89 venues by 2022. Its stable of brands also includes restaurants Hakkasan, Yauatcha, Sake no Hana, Herringbone, The Nice Guy and nightclub and day club brand Omnia. The Group employ more than 5,000 people globally. President of Hakkasan Group, Nick McCabe, said: “Norway is home to some of the world’s finest chefs and has numerous Michelin star restaurants. However, Norway is underserved by global luxury restaurant brands, which creates a unique opportunity for Ling Ling and Hakkasan Group.