(1 November 2012 – Hong Kong) New World Department Store China Limited (“NWDS” or the “Company”; Hong Kong stock code: 825), one of the largest owners and operators of department stores in the PRC, is pleased to announce that the six winning entries have been elected in the Company’s nationwide sustainability initiative, “Beauty of Water” Photography Contest. The activity received enthusiastic response from the customers and attracted around 22,000 people to enter the Contest and over 130,000 people to take part in the voting.  

In response to NWDS sustainability theme this year ─ “water conservation”, the Company has launched this nationwide activity advocating for water resources preservation. Participants can capture anything related to water to highlight the significance and magnificent of water resources in different environment, promoting the appreciation of “Beauty of Water” through camera. The Contest gained wide support from photography lovers and green conscious customers, and around 22,000 entries have been collected in just half a month’s time since its launch on 7 September. Among all the refined photographs, top 24 were elected to enter the final voting stage after a thorough evaluation from the Company. 

To further encourage community participation, a public voting session was especially introduced to the Contest. Customers could cast their votes for their favorite photographs by visiting the stores in person or logging in the NWDS e-Shopping Platform during the period from 6 October to 15 October 2012. A large top-24-entries display board was exhibited at all NWDS stores. The refined photographs not only increased the artistic ambience of the stores, but also drew a lot of attention and appreciation from many customers. With special prizes presented to the lucky voters, the activity attracted over 130,000 people to participate in the voting in just 10 days’ time. It was encouraging that the important message of “water conservation” was widespread through photography, a hobby that loved by all. 

After public voting and management evaluation, six outstanding works (Gold, Silver and Bronze and three Excellence Awards) are elected as follows: 

Mr. Philip Cheung, Managing Director and Executive Director of NWDS said, “It was the first time that the Company held such a nationwide sustainability activity, and it is encouraging to see that it immediately gained enthusiastic support from the public. The Company has been devoted in the areas of promoting environmental protection and giving back to the community. This year, in addition to the green activities held in all outlets such as “Green Mid-Autumn Festival – Moon Cake Box Recycling Campaign”, stores also carry out a wide range of sustainability works according to the needs of their local community in a proactive manner. In the future, the Company will continue to promote environmental protection and resources recycling, striving towards a sustainable future with the society.”

- End -