How about stepping into a place where the aroma of freshly baked goods has lingered for nearly a century? This is Garden Bakery. It stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s entrepreneurial spirit. It also reflects its enduring love for delicious treats.
Garden Bakery’s story began in 1926. Tse Fong Cheung and Wah O. Wong, two cousins, founded it. They envisioned a bakery that offered modern-style food products. Their goal was to make these affordable for everyone. The name “Garden” was inspired by the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. The cousins often met there to discuss their business plans.
In its early days, Garden Bakery operated from a factory in Sham Shui Po. They made biscuits and bread. By 1927, they opened their first retail branch in Central. In 1931, they moved to a larger, three-story location in Sham Shui Po. The factory operated 24 hours a day. It produced biscuits during the day and bread and cakes at night.
Garden Bakery faced its share of challenges. A fire destroyed the factory in 1932. An insurance error resulted in a complete loss. The factory had to close for a few months.
During the Sino-Japanese War in 1937, Garden Bakery rose to the occasion. The bakery produced 90,000 kg of Army Crackers in seven days. This earned them a contract with the British government. Garden Bakery became the major supplier of wartime baked goods.
The Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in 1941 forced Garden Bakery to halt production again. Japanese troops occupied the Castle Peak Road factory and demolished all facilities. However, after the war in 1945, Garden Bakery quickly resumed operations.
In 1949, Cheung Tse-fong visited the UK. He ordered the latest automated biscuit production machinery. By 1952, Garden Bakery was the first in Asia to implement mechanized manufacturing. The machine produced over 5,000 kg of biscuits per day.
The October Riots of 1956 damaged Garden Bakery’s machinery. Yet, they resumed operations in three months. By 1962, they expanded to a 13,000 sq. m site in Sham Tseng.
In 1970, Garden Bakery completed a modern plant for “Life Bread” production. This bread became one of their most recognizable products. They were also the first to use waxed paper for packaging.
Garden Bakery also produces beloved local snacks. Pop Pan biscuits won a gold medal in 1967. Chicken Thins won a silver medal a year later.
Garden Bakery was a pioneer in other ways. They were the first to use four-color printing on posters. They were also the first to use tin cans for mooncakes.
In 1985, Garden Bakery expanded into mainland China. Today, the Cheung family still owns the company. They have joint ventures with other Chinese firms.
Garden Bakery is more than just a bakery. It is a piece of Hong Kong history. It offers a taste of nostalgia and a reminder of the city’s resilience. As you stand here, consider the generations who have enjoyed Garden Bakery’s treats. The legacy of quality and innovation continues to this day.