How does one of Macau’s oldest ice cream shops stay relevant? Lai Kei owner says it’s all about the human touch – and working with fashion brands

Close to the Grand Lisboa casino in Macau, there's an ice cream shop called Lai Kei that's been a favorite spot for locals for over half a century. The shop's vintage style has made it popular with tourists too. They love to snap photos in front of the shop's classic red-bean-colored front and enjoy the iconic ice cream sandwich. The founder, Kong Lai-king, started selling ice cream on the streets in 1933, and today, his grandson Ambert Kong runs the place. Ambert greets customers and makes sure the shop keeps its original charm, with just a few updates to the recipes.

Lai Kei has been at its current location since the 1960s, and it's filled with design elements from that time. Ambert shares that customers have a strong connection to the shop's old-school vibe, especially during difficult economic times and when other small businesses were shutting down. Despite the challenges, including competition from the booming casino industry, Lai Kei has remained a beloved part of the community.

Ambert Kong, who studied graphic design in the United States, eventually took over the family business. He found that working at the shop allowed him to form deep connections with people. Lai Kei has become more than just an ice cream shop; it's a place where people come to share their lives. To keep up with the times, Lai Kei has partnered with convenience stores and fashion brands, expanding its reach while staying true to its roots. Ambert believes in the unique value of their ice cream and the importance of maintaining the shop's authentic character.