Revolutionizing Retailing: The Sincere Co. and the History of the Hong Kong Department Store

The Sincere Company was Hong Kong’s first department store, and the first Chinese-owned department store anywhere. At its peak, it operated stores in numerous cities, several factories, an insurance company, and more. It is smaller today, but still operates in Hong Kong. It helped transform shopping in HK, vastly expanded public-facing female employment, and lastingly influenced the city’s culture. We are creating a temporary exhibit for the Yuen Campus’ Heritage Center, opening in Autumn, 2025, to coincide with the company’s 125th anniversary. We will utilize archives, newspapers, and other materials available in HK, and may conduct interviews as well.

Essential and Preferred Skills:

Reading knowledge of Chinese (though not necessarily fluency, but enough to identify valuable materials and do a preliminary assessment of contents) is crucial. Some speaking ability in mandarin and/or Cantonese also helpful, though interviews can probably be done in English. Interest in material culture and/or museum work helpful, but not necessary. Basic library research skills will be important.