Local slimming centre Mary Chia has decided to part ways with former actress Ivy Lee, who has currently the brand's spokesperson.

Shin Min Daily News reported that Mary Chia Holdings is looking for a replacement spokesperson from among the crop of Hong Kong media personalities after Ivy emigrated to Hong Kong with her children, where her husband Raymond Chow is based.

Her contract is due to expire in a couple of months.

According to the Chinese evening daily, an industry insider who commented on the move said that the slimming centre always had a good working relationship with Ivy. The latter also hopes to continue being the centre's spokesperson. She is said to be commanding a five-figure sum for her current role.

However, with Ivy retired from the silver screen, opportunities for her to flaunt her slim self and promote the brand has lessened. Her role as the spokesperson is also less effective.

So, Mary Chia Holdings is now looking for a replacement for her, even if Hong Kong celebrities have higher asking fees.

Responding to ShinMin Daily News, Chief Executive Officer Wendy Ho said that the slimming centre has always had a good working relationship with the former actress. Ivy was also very persuasive with her post-pregnancy slimming results. However, Ivy's appeal is limited to a local Singaporean audience and the centre is looking to expand into the Southeast Asian market.