In May 2024, Founder Benjamin Cha publicly shared the company’s vision for the first time at Mingtiandi - Asia real estate intelligence's Hong Kong Forum (https://www.mingtiandi.com/real-estate/events/serakais-cha-sees-placemaking-driving-future-of-asian-retail/), followed by a private dinner and film screening in Tokyo. After half a year of refining their market offering, the team is confident in discussing Serakai’s ambitions as it enters a new growth phase.
At the heart of Serakai is the belief in understanding and engaging with the shifting patterns in contemporary culture, crucial for shaping successful and sustainable placemaking. Serakai aims to redefine discretionary retail in Asia by merging contemporary art, culture, and fashion to create dynamic destinations.
Serakai’s mission is to invest in, develop, and manage vibrant spaces across Asia. Two divisions have been established: ‘Serakai Capital,’ investing in retail properties in Asian gateway cities including Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Bangkok, and ‘Serakai Salons & Projects,’ supporting thought leadership, innovative exhibitions, urban interventions, and curated pop-ups.
Contemporary art and culture are central to Serakai’s programming. Tobias Berger Board Member and Curatorial Director of Serakai Salons & Projects, will lead innovative programming, events, exhibitions, and curated experiences, ensuring the spaces stay relevant and connected to their communities.
Tobias worked closely with artist Sarah Morris on her film, 'ETC', co-commissioned by M+ and Tai Kwun Contemporary and supported by Serakai Salons & Projects (https://shorturl.at/M4Tsn). The film, shown for the first time in Tokyo at a Serakai private dinner on May 28, 2024, at Wall-Aoyama, is a powerful visual portrayal of Hong Kong, addressing its complexities, realities, and contradictions.
Serakai sees discretionary retail as a niche opportunity for innovation, aiming to transcend the ordinary. By embracing experiential retail concepts and integrating digital advancements, Serakai aims to shape the retail landscape, offering unexpected experiences and creating culturally significant destinations.