Big Box Shocks

Given the limited space in Hong Kong, big box stores don't exist.

I'd forgotten how cavernous those things can be, and a trip to a Super Wal Mart blew my mind for a few moments. Then I considered the impact such a massive retail outlet would have on a new immigrant. Jaw-dropping would be an apt adjective.

The place is so huge that I joked with my sister: had we become separated I would have had to use the PA system to arrange a meeting spot. She replied that when (not if) that happens during family shopping runs she just calls her husband on his mobile phone. Either that or bring walkie talkies.

What's next, drive-through shopping?

Then I was introduced to the self-checkout system, where consumers scan their own purchases, make payment and bag them before walking out. That would never fly in Hong Kong, because the cost of hiring extra security guards would offset the savings of no checkout staff. It's not that Hong Kongers are dishonest, it's just that store owners wouldn't trust the average consumer if their lives depended on it, not to mention that utter chaos would ensue when (not if) people start jumping the queue.

After the Super Wal Mart experience, I'm rather glad the stores in Hong Kong are on the small side.

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