The Refinery’s Jonathan Bailey on the future of members’ clubs in Hong Kong

One of the many benefits of a Diamond membership is access to The Refinery , a private members’ club located in the heart of Taikoo Place. Founded by Swire, it offers luxury and exclusivity to some of Hong Kong’s most influential figures.  

Hong Kong’s private members’ clubs are entering a new era. More than just exclusive spaces, they’re evolving into lifestyle hubs where individuals can form vibrant communities and share meaningful experiences.

In a special conversation with Jonathan Bailey, The Refinery’s General Manager, we explore the trends and demands shaping the future of private members’ clubs in Hong Kong, and the qualities that set this Quarry Bay gem apart.

1. You have extensive experience in luxury, hotel management, and private members’ club management. What drew you to the world of private members’ clubs? 

I was fortunate enough to spend my childhood as a member of the Lima Cricket and Football Club in Peru. The fond memories, the sense of community, and the special relationships fostered with the team that took care of us all helped shape my values and have held me in good stead throughout my career.

I’ve always been fascinated by creating spaces where community and luxury intersect. Clubs offer a unique intimacy – curating not just services, but lifelong connections. It is about fostering a sense of belonging, which hotels rarely achieve.

2. How would you describe the current landscape of private members’ clubs in Hong Kong, and what trends have you observed in recent years? 

Private clubs are evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of members. They are also being influenced by the need to differentiate themselves in a saturated market. Especially after the pandemic, people are seeking safe environments to connect. Clubs are transforming into lifestyle hubs, providing diverse membership options.  

There is a growing trend towards inclusivity, creating hybrid spaces that combine work and leisure, and conceptual or thematic clubs. Many new clubs are themed around specific interests, such as wine or wellness, catering to individuals seeking purpose-driven spaces and communities.

3. How are membership demographics changing? What do members want from their membership these days? 

We’re seeing a younger demographic embracing private club memberships, including professionals from tech and creative industries. These days, members are looking for spaces where they can network and enjoy wellness activities and enriching experiences that align with their lifestyles. 

4. What need will members’ clubs be fulfilling in the next decade? 

Private members’ clubs will evolve into urban sanctuaries focused on holistic well-being. While clubs will continue to provide intimate, in-person experiences, they will also bridge the gap between physical and digital spaces, offering virtual networking opportunities – think AI-curated networking, sustainability labs, and global membership reciprocity. 

5. What are some of the challenges that private members’ clubs face in attracting and retaining members, and how is The Refinery meeting these challenges?  

One of the main challenges is maintaining relevance in a competitive market.  

At The Refinery, we stand out by focusing on providing premium events and exceptional one-of-a-kind experiences to our diverse clientele. Our members comprise all levels of interest and insight and are drawn from both in and out of Taikoo Place – from executives and entrepreneurs to young talents and seasoned professionals. Ours is a place where great minds meet – where forward thinkers gather and conversations flow.  

We actively seek members’ feedback, adapt our offerings to meet evolving needs, and create a vibrant community atmosphere. We also offer a uniquely stylish environment – cosy yet upscale and perfect for socialising and relaxing. Our culinary excellence is exemplified through our refined Cantonese cuisine and our service is highly personalised, warm and attentive.

6. What new initiatives will you be bringing to The Refinery to attract and retain members?  

We plan to introduce more wellness experiences, collaborative events with local brands, and innovative dining experiences into our programming. This will enhance our community engagement and attract a broader membership base.

7. Can you share more about the dining and wellness options available at the club? 

We deliver expertly crafted, hyper-local, seasonal menus with an edge – think traditional Cantonese with a contemporary twist, hand-crafted cocktails made with Asian herbs and spices, and locally brewed craft beers.

Wellness at our club extends beyond personal training and physical exertion to more holistic offerings including mindfulness workshops and enlightening health talks.

8. How do events play into your membership programme? What kind of events are popular with your members? 

Events are our heartbeat. Members favour our interactive panel discussions and masterclasses such as The Dialogue Series – covering topics such as longevity, the transformative power of art, and the impact of generative AI on the world of work –  alongside investment and experiential workshops, bespoke culinary events and cultural festivals.

9. What excites you the most about managing The Refinery? Is there anything you’d like to share with our Cathay Diamond members? 

I’m excited by the opportunity to shape a vibrant community – to foster an environment where members can connect, share experiences, and inspire one another in a setting that feels warm and welcoming, yet luxurious.

Part of the benefit of being a Cathay Diamond member is enjoying privileged access to The Refinery’s dining facilities. Diamond Members can access the lounges, restaurant andbar, as well as the private dining room and outdoor terrace on weekdays between 4pm and 6pm, and all day on Saturdays. I invite Cathay’s Diamond members to explore our unique offerings and join us in cultivating a space that celebrates connection, creativity, and wellness.  

We look forward to welcoming you to the club!