Taiwanese bakery chain Top Pot Bakery has opened its first branch in Hong Kong – part of a strategic plan to expand the brand globally, beginning in Asia.

Located in Prince Edward, Kowloon, the new shop is Top Pot’s second outside Taiwan, the first being in Shanghai. The bakery, known for its focus on low-fat, low-sugar, additive-free and high-quality products, has fast become a hit in Taiwan.

One of the motivations for Top Pot Bakery’s expansion into Hong Kong was to use the city as a test market. Its booming food and beverage industry and strong growth in visitor arrivals were also key, according to the brand manager of Top Pot Bakery Jolin Lee.

“Renowned as the culinary capital of Asia and one of the most popular destinations for international travellers, Hong Kong is the best stepping stone for us to expand our business in the region. If we do well in such a competitive market, our business model will work in many other markets in Asia,” Lee said.

She added: “We are using Hong Kong as a springboard to expand further in Asia, given the city’s huge number of visitors who look for quality food. We believe that our bakery will offer a difference for local and overseas customers in Hong Kong.”

According to Lee, Top Pot Bakery is planning to open more shops in the city by the end of this year and Hong Kong will be the Asian regional headquarters for the brand.

Since opening its first shop in Taipei in 2010, Top Pot Bakery has grown to 18 outlets in Taiwan and one outlet in Shanghai. It will open three to five shops in Hong Kong during 2013.