As of December 19, 2025, British expat Jake Canning has turned his love for sunny beaches into a thriving pizza shop in Haikou, Hainan. What started as a hunger for sun and surf has become a story of entrepreneurial success on the Chinese mainland.
Jake, originally from a small town near Leeds, England, spent two years exploring life in Beijing early in his career. In 2017, he made the move to Hainan, drawn by its tropical climate and laid-back island vibes 🌴☀️. Fast forward eight years, and his pizza joint is one of the hottest spots in Haikou, serving up slices that keep locals and travelers coming back for more 🍕.
Jake wanted to bring a taste of home to Hainan. He credits locals for embracing new flavors and believes word of mouth helped spread the buzz. Starting a business on the Chinese mainland might sound daunting, but his experience shows that with the right mindset, it can be surprisingly straightforward.
Today, his shop offers Italian classics alongside creative local fusions, like a coconut curry pizza inspired by Hainan's famous flavors. Jake highlights simplified permit processes and supportive officials as key to his smooth setup.
For young entrepreneurs and travelers looking for inspiration, Jake's journey offers a sunny lesson: sometimes the best business opportunities lie where the palm trees sway and the waves call. Ready to catch your own wave? 🏄♂️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
