CK Hutchison Considers Listing A.S. Watson Group in Potential 2024 Debut

CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. is considering listing health and beauty retailer A.S. Watson Group, according to people familiar with the matter. The Hong Kong-based conglomerate has been speaking with financial advisers about a potential listing, which might take place as soon as next year, the people said, asking not to be identified because the talks are private. Watson could raise 2 billion or more in a Hong Kong listing, the people said. A dual listing in the UK may also be considered, one of the people said. The listing would be a significant move for A.S. Watson, which has been expanding its presence in the health and beauty retail market through acquisitions and partnerships. A.S. Watson Group operates over 15,000 stores across 25 markets, including Watsons, ParknShop, and Superdrug. The company has been growing its e-commerce capabilities and investing in digital transformation to enhance customer experience. The potential listing would provide A.S. Watson with access to additional capital to fuel its growth plans and expand its global footprint. The health and beauty retail market has been growing steadily, driven by increasing demand for wellness and self-care products. The global market size is expected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2025, up from $1.1 trillion in 2020. A.S. Watson's listing would be a significant addition to the Hong Kong stock market, which has been seeking to attract more listings from high-growth companies. CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. is a diversified conglomerate with interests in ports, energy, and infrastructure. The company has been looking to diversify its portfolio and reduce its reliance on its core businesses. The potential listing of A.S. Watson would be a strategic move to unlock value and create a separate entity with its own growth trajectory. The listing of A.S. Watson would have implications for the company's operations and strategy. It would provide the company with access to additional capital to invest in growth initiatives, expand its e-commerce capabilities, and enhance its digital transformation. The listing would also create a separate entity with its own management team and governance structure, which could lead to changes in the company's operations and strategy. The potential listing of A.S. Watson is a significant development in the health and beauty retail market. It would provide the company with access to additional capital to fuel its growth plans and expand its global footprint. The listing would also create a separate entity with its own growth trajectory, which could lead to changes in the company's operations and strategy.