Gift stores are more than just retail spaces in theme parks — they're where lasting memories are transformed into keepsakes. That's why MinewTag is proud to collaborate with Ocean Park Hong Kong, bringing digital innovation to these memorable spaces.
As one of the world's best theme park, why did Hong Kong Ocean Park choose MinewTag electronic shelf labels? And what changes have taken place since the adoption of this smart pricing solution? This article will take you behind the scenes to find out.
Why Ocean Park's Gift Shops Needed a Digital Revolution？
Ocean Park Hong Kong, a world-class theme park spectacularly set between mountains and sea, has stood as an iconic Asian destination since its 1977 debut. This multifaceted attraction blends marine exhibits, thrill rides and cultural experiences, drawing over 10 million annual visitors. Crowned "World's Best Theme Park," its accolades include housing a globally-renowned aquarium, pioneering giant panda conservation, and featuring the heart-stopping "Abyss Turbo Drop" thrill ride.
The park's signature cable cars traverse Deep Water Bay's azure waters, shuttling visitors between the "Summit" and "Waterfront" zones. Nestled at the mountain base, the gift shops serve as the perfect sentimental finale to every visitor's journey.
Gift shops, as pivotal touchpoints in the visitor experience, play a dual role in merchandise sales and brand storytelling. However, amid retail digitalization and evolving consumer expectations, traditional paper price tags revealed growing limitations—slow price updates, inefficient modifications, and static displays—falling short in meeting dynamic needs like IP promotions and real-time information adjustments.
Facing the dual challenge of millions of annual visitors and rising demand for smart experiences, Ocean Park Hong Kong partnered with UXRetail in 2025 to deploy MinewTag ESLs (Electronic Shelf Labels) across all gift shops. This flexible digital transformation has redefined theme park retail—balancing operational efficiency with the warmth of human-centric service.
How Electronic Shelf Labels Redefined Retail Management Logic？
1. Real-Time Price Updates
Theme parks frequently adjust merchandise prices in response to seasonal events, holidays, or trending IPs to maximize sales opportunities. MinewTag electronic shelf labels, based on Bluetooth 5.0 technology, support one-click batch price changes from the backend. For example, in line with Ocean Park's limited-time "Panda IP" campaign, gift shops can instantly launch panda-themed display templates or various promotional activities, with product information updated in real time. This not only makes the display of product information more efficient but also adds a touch of warmth.
2. Data Integration Across the Entire Retail Chain
The electronic shelf label system is integrated with the park's ERP and inventory management systems, creating a data loop connecting "headquarters –stores –consumers."
For example, when the stock of a particular plush toy drops below 50 units, the system automatically triggers a restock alert and displays a "Limited Stock" tag on the price label, helping to boost inventory turnover.
How ESLs Bring Warmth to Theme Park Shopping
1. Scan, Explore, Connect: Turning Products into Story Portals
The electronic shelf labels can display product names, prices, inventory levels, QR codes (linking to product stories or AR interactions), and other relevant information. They also support customized templates featuring Ocean Park's IP elements to enhance brand recognition.
For example, with the "Marine Conservation Series" products, customers can scan the QR code to access product introductions, thereby deepening their understanding of the product's IP essence.
2. Free Up Staff, Deliver Warm Service: Crafting a Cozier Experience
The process of replacing traditional paper price tags is often tedious and time-consuming, requiring staff to spend a significant amount of time and energy on repetitive manual tasks. However, with the introduction of electronic shelf labels (ESLs), prices can now be updated with just one click through the backend system. This shift allows employees to redirect their focus toward providing better customer service, ultimately improving the overall shopping experience and boosting customer satisfaction.
3. Eco-Friendly & Caring: Technology with a Human Touch
Compared to traditional paper tags, ESLs utilize energy-efficient E-ink screen technology that mimics the appearance of printed paper while consuming almost no power when idle. With batteries that can last up to five years and no need for constant replacements, ESLs dramatically reduce paper waste and carbon emissions—an ideal match for the park's vision of green tourism. Beyond sustainability, these smart labels enhance operational efficiency and improve price accuracy, offering a smoother, warmer shopping experience for both staff and visitors. It’s a small shift in technology that brings a big impact—both for the planet and the people.
Through its collaboration with Hong Kong Ocean Park, MinewTag has demonstrated how technology can do more than just streamline operations—it can also bring warmth to every visitor interaction. MinewTag is proud to support Ocean Park in realizing its vision of green tourism, taking a meaningful step toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more human-centered theme park.
