The four-day 72nd Macau Grand Prix (MGP) ended yesterday, with shoppers saying they spent more on buying MGP souvenirs than last year but one merchant complaining about “quieter” sales than in 2024.
Jonas Ieong Chon Long, who came to watch the races for the second time because of his interest in racing and the opportunity to watch international drivers in action, noted that he purchased a model car and collectible trading cards of drivers this year, spending over 1,000 patacas, compared to the 200 patacas he spent on a model car last year. He noted that he spent more this year due to the greater variety of products available.
Lucio Marcelino Chiu, a souvenir buyer, said that that he was a first-time MGP spectator, adding that he decided to come because this year’s competition featured F4 races, along with the participation of world champions, and experiencing racing cars speeding past him for the first time was both shocking and thrilling. Chiu said that he bought two model cars this year, spending around 4,000 patacas.
Wong Ngai Meng, Business Development and Marketing Officer of YOKOHAMA, told the Post that this year’s sales situation has been quieter compared to last year, with fewer shoppers. For instance, he said, foot traffic was low on Saturday between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Wong said that he thought the decline in buyers was influenced by various factors, including event arrangements and a decrease in consumers’ purchasing power.
Wong noted that since the MGP organisers only confirmed the souvenir booth locations one week in advance, he suggested that arrangements should be finalised earlier next year, adding that he hoped to secure again a booth near the entrance or exit next year to attract more visitors.
Regarding the issue of speculative reselling of Cinnamoroll* limited-edition products, Jun Cheung, who was in charge of the Tarmac Works’ stall, said that they were unable stop the reselling, pointing out that his company has already implemented a system where order forms are distributed to customers in the queue, allowing them to select products in advance and expedite processing.
*Cinnamoroll is an adorable white puppy character from the Japanese company Sanrio, best known for creating Hello Kitty. His key characteristics are his fluffy white appearance, long ears that allow him to fly, and a tail that curls like a cinnamon roll. – DeepSeek
Jonas Ieong Chon Long, a souvenir buyer, poses with yesterday’s MGP souvenir purchase.
Lucio Marcelino Chiu, a MGP souvenir buyer, poses with one of the model cars yesterday.
Shoppers stand in front of a MGP souvenir stall outside the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal yesterday. – Photos: Ida Cheong
