Rosewood Defies Opposition in Hong Kong Clubhouse Takeover

On August 2, 2026, Rosewood Hotel Group confirmed its intention to move forward with the controversial takeover of the Town Club in Central, Hong Kong. This follows an announcement that Rosewood's Carlyle & Co private club will assume operations from the Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy (HKGTA) on August 8.

Despite the impending change, a group of HKGTA patrons is actively pursuing avenues to halt the transition. South China Morning Post reports that these members have lodged complaints with Hong Kong's Consumer Council and the Customs and Excise Department, citing potential violations of the Trade Descriptions Ordinance. Further, the group has reportedly escalated its opposition by writing to the Legislative Council Secretariat.

Our take: Rosewood's unwavering commitment to this transition underscores the brand's strategic push into the private members' club sphere, especially with its Carlyle & Co venture. The friction with existing members highlights the complexities of integrating new management into established luxury club environments, where legacy and exclusivity are paramount. This situation could set a precedent for how similar luxury hospitality expansions navigate member sentiment.