Outback Steakhouse to shut down 9 Hong Kong outlets

The American restaurant chain Outback Steakhouse announced it will shut down nine of its 19 outlets in Hong Kong. Outback said the affected eateries are located in Causeway Bay, Central, Mong Kok and other areas. They will stay open until Sunday. In a Facebook post, the chain described it as a difficult business decision. "We remain committed to Hong Kong market with our 10 branches and will continue to serve customers with the same commitment to quality and excellence that they have come to expect from the Outback brand," the chain added. Meanwhile, the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority said Outback has not made MPF contributions to about 40 employees in May and June, totalling around HK$60,000. The authority said it urged the chain to settle outstanding MPF payments. The authority added that it has not received any complaints from Outback staff.