Watsons Plans to Open 1,000 New Stores, Investing 3.8 Billion HKD in Stores and Strengthening its Supply Chain

AS Watson Group announced its plan to open approximately 1,000 new stores this year and invest a total of 3.8 billion HKD in new store openings, store upgrades, retail technology and supply chain enhancements, expanding its global business network, and strengthening its online and offline (O+O) platforms.

Photo source: the official website of Watsons

2026 marks the 185th anniversary of AS Watsons Group's establishment in Hong Kong. As for now, the Group operates over 17,000 stores in 31 market regions across Asia and Europe, employing over 130,000 young personnel globally. The Group stated that it will focus on sustainable growth and innovation in the future, continuously consolidating its position in the health and beauty retail industry.

Photo source: the official website of Watsons

Furthermore, the Group disclosed that its health product category recorded 8% growth last year, with double-digit growth in the European market. Its beauty product category grew by 6%, also recording double-digit growth in the Asian market. The O+O sales that it has continuously invested in have also recorded double-digit growth. Moreover, in 2025, the number of Watson's new members reached 10 million globally, bringing its total membership to over 180 million.

DETROIT (AP) — James Harden sat out the Cleveland Cavaliers' game against the Detroit Pistons on Friday night as he recovers from a fractured right thumb.

Harden was injured Tuesday against New York. He's averaging 18.9 points in seven games for the Cavaliers following a trade with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Cleveland also was without Donovan Mitchell. He strained his groin against the Knicks.

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden, right, is defended by New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns, left, in the first half of an NBA basketball game in Cleveland, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

Cleveland Cavaliers' James Harden looks on from the bench during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Milwaukee Bucks, Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Aaron Gash)