New data from Runhotel.hk shows the Hong Kong banquet market shifting toward smaller-scale, flexible wedding and corporate events, driven by changing preferences among younger consumers and SMEs.
The Hong Kong banquet market is undergoing a structural shift, driven primarily by changing wedding preferences among younger couples, according to banquet enquiry data collected over the past year by Runhotel.hk through its Venue Search platform.
Compared with the traditional preference for large-scale Chinese wedding banquets, recent enquiry trends indicate a clear move toward more streamlined “light wedding” formats. These include Western-style wedding receptions, cocktail weddings and brunch weddings, reflecting evolving consumer expectations.
Data shows that guest numbers for light wedding enquiries typically range between 20 and 50 attendees, representing a significant reduction compared with traditional banquet formats that often exceed 100 guests.
At the same time, wedding planning timelines are becoming shorter. While venues were previously booked around one year in advance, most current enquiries are now made three to six months before the wedding date. In some cases, particularly for small-scale light weddings, venue searches begin as little as one to three months prior to the event.
Market observers note that younger generations place greater emphasis on atmosphere and personalised experiences. As a result, many couples are opting for simpler yet distinctive wedding formats instead of highly structured traditional ceremonies.
This shift has contributed to growing demand for banquet venues that can offer flexible layouts and customised arrangements, supporting smaller guest numbers without compromising the overall dining and social experience.
Separately, Runhotel.hk has observed a marked increase in enquiries from small and medium-sized enterprises regarding spring dinner banquets in recent months, as the Lunar New Year period approaches.
These enquiries are primarily focused on venues offering flexible buyout arrangements and moderate capacity, catering to companies that prefer a streamlined event format while maintaining a strong social and dining atmosphere.
Platform data indicates that the Hong Kong banquet market is moving toward greater “lightweight” and flexible solutions. Across both wedding and corporate segments, demand continues to rise for adaptable banquet formats aligned with changing consumer and business needs.