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Tag: HKTDC

  • Top young Hong Kong fashion designers revealed

    Top young Hong Kong fashion designers revealed

    This year’s top young Hong Kong fashion designers have been revealed, capping off the Centrestage festival.

    Three winners of the 2019 Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC) were chosen from a final pool of 16.

    Champion Wilson Yip received a monetary reward together with a one-month internship working in the studio of Japanese fashion designer Mihara Yasuhiro, sponsored by Sun Hing Knitting Factory.

    Yip’s prizewinning “Forgetful Still” was a whimsical collection inspired by the aesthetic of absentmindedness. Yip also took the Best Footwear Design Award.

    Designer Louis Chow was named first runner-up for his collection “Already But Not Yet”, while the award for second runner-up and new talent was given to Enzo Chan for his “Since 1996”.

    The judges assessed the top young Hong Kong fashion designers’ works based on creativity, originality, market potential, craftsmanship, use of fabrics and overall aesthetics, and offered expert feedback to each of the participants. VIP Judge Mihara Yasuhiro had particular praise for the winning piece, saying that Champion Wilson Yip “managed to paint fashion over the backdrop of everyday life, using elements of daily wear and injecting them with novelty and creativity”.

    The YDC has been organized by the HKTDC for more than four decades with the objective of nurturing and promoting young fashion talent. In 2012, to further promote the international visibility of local Hong Kong designers, the HKTDC launched fashionally.com, an online platform that showcases the work of local labels and talents to link them with global industry insiders and opportunities.

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  • The largest jewellery marketplace in the world opens in Hong Kong

    The largest jewellery marketplace in the world opens in Hong Kong

    Two major jewellery shows organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will open next week. The sixth HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, which showcases jewellery raw materials, will take place at AsiaWorld-Expo from 26 Feb to 2 March, while the 36th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, which specialises in finished fine jewellery, will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai from 28 Feb to 4 March.

    This year, the two shows will feature a record of more than 4,600 exhibitors from 48 countries and regions, once again forming the world’s largest jewellery marketplace.

    Jewellery exports grow 13.3% in 2018, but challenging year ahead
    HKTDC Acting Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: “Though the Sino-US trade conflict has been looming large over all sectors and industries, Hong Kong exports of fine jewellery showed healthy growth of 13.3% year on year to reach HK$57 billion in 2018. Exports to the United States, Hong Kong’s largest jewellery export market, were particularly robust, growing by 18.1%.” However, Mr Chau pointed out that the single-month figure for December showed the total value of fine jewellery exports falling 12% year on year, indicating that the impact of the Sino-US trade conflict on exports is beginning to be felt. Compounded by other unfavourable factors such as escalating geopolitical conflicts, Mr Chau reminded businesses to be ready for a potential slowdown in global economic growth in 2019.

    Buying missions organised to help address economic uncertainty

    Mr Chau added that economic uncertainties led to the total value of Hong Kong’s exports of jewellery raw materials, including pearls, gems and semi-gems, declining by 17.6% in 2018, although there was still satisfactory growth in some major markets, including Mainland China (+8%), Belgium (+19.2%) and Israel (+24.4%). “To help the industry grasp more business opportunities, the HKTDC will organise 120 buying missions, comprising more than 8,200 companies from 75 countries and regions, to visit the shows this year,” Mr Chau explained. “These companies will consist of department stores, speciality shops, chain stores and online stores, with 700 coming from the US and 5,700 companies visiting from emerging markets. This will help the industry expand into emerging markets to deal with the unstable global economy.”

    Worldwide support from industry bodies and jewellery associations

    The two shows continue to receive support from industry organisations and jewellery associations from around the world. A total of 38 pavilions, including those from Australia, Mainland China, France, Germany, Italy, Myanmar, India and the US, will set up group pavilions at the shows. Various jewellery organisations will continue to set up their own pavilions, including ACODES from Colombia, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, International Coloured Gems Association, Israel Diamond Institute, New York Diamond Dealers Club, Tanzanite Foundation and the Gem & Jewellery Trade Association of Thailand, among others.

    The Avenue of Jewellery Creators will be set up at the Jewellery Show by the Asia Pacific Creator Association for the first time, introducing jewellery designs created by Hong Kong and mainland designers. Also new at the Jewellery Show are pavilions from Mexico and Indonesia, while groups from Donghai in Jiangsu province and Dongguan in Guangdong province will debut as exhibitors. The Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show will welcome the participation of the Australian Opal Association and the Beihai Bureau of Commerce from the mainland for the first time, broadening the show’s international outlook.

    Japan as first-time partner country to showcase rare pearls

    With support from the Japan External Trade Organisation and the Consulate-General of Japan in Hong Kong, the HKTDC is collaborating with the Japan Pearl Exporters’ Association and the Japan Pearl Promotion Society to invite Japan as this year’s partner country for the first time. A Japan Pearl Jewellery Pavilion and a Japan Pearl Pavilion will be set up at the Jewellery Show and the Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show respectively, featuring some 130 exhibitors. The two major Japanese pearl organisations will also host a media event on the first day of the Jewellery Show (28 Feb) to introduce exquisite pearl jewellery from Japan.

    Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show runs from 26 February to 2 March

    This is the sixth straight year that the HKTDC has run the two shows in parallel in separate venues. The Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, which specialises in the raw materials used in the jewellery industry, will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo. The show is organised into different themed zones, including the Hall of Fine Diamonds, which showcases prime quality diamonds of different shapes, cuts, grades and rare colours. The Treasures of Nature zone displays various glittering precious gemstones, semi-precious gems and other natural raw materials, while the Treasures of Ocean zone houses the highest quality pearls from Tahiti, the South Seas and other pearl-producing areas around the world.

    Among the impressively large number of special exhibits on display are:

    Hong Kong company Novel Collection Ltd (Booth No: AWE 2-Q01) will feature a pear-shaped, pink-coloured 5.01-carat diamond with unique cutting valued at HK$46.8 million.

    Swiss exhibitor Theilkas GmbH (Booth No: AWE 1-A05) will present pearls from Caribbean queen conches. Characterised by a unique flame effect, pink conch pearls are one of the world’s most precious pearl types.

    Shaun Gems International (Booth No: AWE 1-A16) from the United States will display a matched pair of natural sapphires of vivid blue colour, weighing a total of 27.76 carats and valued at more than HK$3 million.

    Jewellery Show runs from 28 Feb to 4 March

    The Jewellery Show, which opens on Thursday (28 Feb), will feature a wide array of finished jewellery and exquisite craftsmanship. A total of 38 renowned jewellery brands will converge at the Hall of Fame to showcase their collections. Returning brand names include Lao Feng Xiang from the mainland, Japan’s Kuwayama and Italy’s Giorgio Visconti, while new exhibitors include Hong Kong’s Asia Star, Japan’s Kawamura, Russia’s Kabarovsky and the UK’s JT Jewellery Theatre.

    The Hall of Extraordinary will display skillfully crafted, valuable and unique jewellery pieces from some 100 companies, including:

    Hong Kong’s Jadmily Jewelery (Booth No: CEC GH-B05) will feature a jade necklace valued at HK$64 million. The oval centre stone of the necklace is a jadeite cabochon extracted from a top-tier ancient mine in Myanmar. The warm, smooth touch of elegance is illuminated with dazzling diamonds. The centre stone weighs 51.48g.

    Foo Hang Jewellery of Hong Kong (Booth No: CEC GH-D16) will showcase a diamond jewellery set worth more than HK$13 million. The centrepiece of the set is a marquise shaped diamond of 10.04 carats valued at over HK$8 million. The rare marquise cut is testament to the superb craftsmanship that makes the diamond even more dazzling.

    One of the exhibits of Hong Kong company Belford Jewellery (Booth No: CEC CH-L01) is its “Lava Collection”. One of the jewellery pieces in this collection is an orange-red Mexican fire opal that is uniquely set against a number of coloured diamonds to imitate flowing lava. The piece is valued at HK$345,000.

    Another Hong Kong company, Famous Group Ltd (Booth No: CEC GH-G05), will display a sapphire diamond set valued at over HK$10 million. The sapphire stones, with a total weight of more than 180 carats, are adorned with 128 carats of diamonds to bring out the elegance.

    The IT Solutions for Jewellery zone that debuted last year will return to help buyers boost their competitiveness by tapping into the latest technologies for use in the designing, manufacturing, quality monitoring and selling of jewellery. The new Amber Jewellery zone is introduced to address the growing market demand, while other themed zones include Antique & Vintage Jewellery Galleria, Designer Galleria, Hall of Jade Jewellery, Treasures of Craftsmanship, Hall of Time, Wedding Bijoux and World of Glamour. In the Hall 3E entrance of the Jewellery Show, supported by Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, the “ARTRIUM” will showcase the company’s unique collection of precious jewellery.

    Networking activities to facilitate business exchange

    A host of activities and events, including jewellery parades, networking sessions, buyer/exhibitor forums and seminars, will be held during the shows to facilitate business exchange. One key event is the cocktail reception and Jewellery Gala Dinner held on the first day of the Jewellery Show (28 Feb). The theme for the gala dinner will be “Dionysus”, after the Greek god of wine, with a menu personally prepared by Edward Voon, Executive Chef of French restaurant LE PAN. The dinner will be attended by actresses Carat Cheung and Toby Chan. The award presentation ceremony for the biennial International Jewellery Design Excellence Award − often referred to as the “Oscars of the jewellery industry” − will be held during the cocktail reception, with the “Champion of the Champions” being announced.

    During the show period, the HKTDC will stage demonstrations of jewellery craftsmanship and themed seminars to update industry players on the latest market trends, production technologies and product styles. For example, experts from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will conduct a seminar on “Fancy-coloured Melee Diamonds and their Identification” (26 Feb). The HKTDC will also hold a jewellery industry forum on 1 March covering topics such as the forecasting of jewellery trends, how jewellery design software will revolutionise the design of jewellery products, and insights into the impact of 4K 3D printing technologies and mobile commerce, with a representative from Tencent explaining how artificial intelligence and big data can be used to increase sales. Other seminar topics include the latest developments in the internationalisation of the Fei Cui standard (2 March), observations on sapphires from Mogok, Myanmar (3 March), and gemology studies and market analysis of Myanmar rubies (3 March). Details can be found on the show websites.

    In addition, to identify design talents for the industry and demonstrate the high calibre of Hong Kong jewellery designers to international buyers, the HKTDC has joined hands with four local jewellery industry bodies to organise the 20th Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition. The theme of the competition this year is “Be Connected, Be United”, attracting around 200 quality entries. The finalists’ designs will be on display in the Hall 1D lobby of the HKCEC during the show period.

    To make it convenient for buyers to visit both shows, a complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided by the HKTDC between AsiaWorld-Expo and downtown (including the HKCEC in Wan Chai). Please visit the show websites for details.

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  • Luxury brands turn their gaze to increasingly picky millennial buyers

    Luxury brands turn their gaze to increasingly picky millennial buyers

    Multimillion-dollar fashion brands in Hong Kong are transforming themselves to appeal to rich young customers.

    Christine Chen, 27, was looking for a special wedding gift for her best friend. Loaded with cash, she went into one luxury store after another at a mall. Doors were opened obsequiously and staff in tuxedos fawned over her.

    But soon her interest in luxury fashion dissipated, at least temporarily, because of the overwhelming attention she received.

    Fifteen minutes later she was out of the door without completing her shopping.

    Christine’s story epitomes the experience of many young Hong Kong shoppers: They have no problems buying item after item online but quickly lose interest when the very same items are physically displayed in front of them along with an army of sales staff.

    High prices are not a problem, according to Christine, but the shopping experience at luxury stores often makes her and her friends reluctant to buy.

    Hong Kong has seen many changes in buying behavior in recent years. Some have not been kind to sellers as the closure of many Burberry, Coach and Louis Vuiton stores due to lack of patrons testifies.

    Bloomberg presumed that wealthy Chinese, who account for much of the luxury items purchased, are no longer willing to wait in queues for the latest watch or handbag.

    On the other hand, the surge of millennial buyers in the ages of 20-34 is transforming the traditional demographic at shopping malls. Their increasing incomes and family financial support allow the young to shift from fast fashion to posh clothing and accessories.

    Bain & Co has predicted that by 2025 millennials and the Generation Z (people born after 1996) will be the consumers of 45 percent of luxury fashion sold on the planet.

    Then again, it is not easy to make them buy. After being accustomed to middle-aged buyers for long, sellers of luxury goods now have to turn their gigantic marketing machinery toward increasingly younger buyers.

    Chow Tai Fook is one of the top 10 luxury fashion brands and has colossal revenues. It is larger than brands like Hermès, Rolex, and Prada, according to Deloitte.

    Since 2016 Chow Tai Fook has been making over its traditional outlets to make them millennial-friendly. It also has online shopping portal ctfeShop.

    At another of its outlets in Hong Kong, Chow Tai Fook even offers customers the experience of personally wrapping a jewelry gift box with items bought on the spot.Standing out is its branch in Kwai Fong, one of the island’s nightlife hotspots. Guests encounter a pink-themed café inside the store that ensures no one leaves thirsty. The selfie generation also loves the Kwai Fong branch for its check-in area specifically meant for taking photos.

    In each area, stores have their own signature color, with red being a symbol of fortune and light blue and pastel pink representing youth.

    The company came up with the idea of jewelry vending machines in Shanghai inspired by traditional vending machines.

    It also bought copyrights from Disney and rolled out jewelry lines inspired by the latter’s cartoon characters.

    All these are meant to help young buyers feel more comfortable at Chow Tai Fook, Po Liu, its international business director, explained.

    Chow Tai Fook’s range of campaigns for the brands under its umbrella works toward the same goal.

    T MARK is a diamond brand that focuses on the diamond traceabilityand authenticity. diamond is inscribed with a mark that carries a set of unique serial numbers, enabling customers to trace the life journey of a diamond from sourcing to production.

    SoInLove is a jewelry gifting brand with affordable price, young style. Monolgues is an on-trend jewelry brand for trendsetting millennials .

    French luxury brand Guy Laroche recently launched a series of art watches in Hong Kong and China.

    Instead of thin leather straps in classic yellow and brown tones, they come with pastel straps and large faces with imprints of French paintings.

    This personalization was in response to millennials’ need to express themselves, and the watches are a favorite item, especially for online shoppers.

    “Young people have innovative views that help us reach our target audience quickly, while the experience of older executives reduces potential risks.”Elise S.M. Tsui, a distributor of Guy Laroche watches in Hong Kong, said young people were becoming her main customers. So her company also employs young people in managerial positions.

    Vietnam too

    This shift in demographics is also happening in Vietnam.

    Since the beginning of last year Lacoste Vietnam has seen VIP customers aged 24 – 35 years increase by 315 percent. A VIP customer is one who makes a one-time purchase of at least VND27 million ($1,155).

    Bui Thu Phuong, marketing director of Lacoste Vietnam, said in the last two years, amid fierce competition from international and domestic fashion brands and the entry of many global names, Lacoste set out to build strategies to attract millennials and the Generation Z in addition to the middle-aged segment.

    “This is a very promising customer group that many brands are interested in. They were and have been key players in the global workforce. This young group always wants its needs gratified immediately.”

    Concurring with Phuong, Nguyen Thi Minh Thu, marketing director of Precita jewelry, said millennials as a customer group account for a big proportion of purchases of high-end brands.

    They were born in the digital age and live with the digital world for more than 24 hours a week. Health and beauty are their major interests, but they are also very particular about the quality of the products they buy and how practical their spending is.

    Designer Do Long has been in the fashion industry for eight years and runs a design shop. A few years ago his clients started to see younger buyers, aged 25-35, flood in, but now many 18-20-year-olds can afford customized, expensive attires, he said.

    To gain market share, designers and luxury fashion businesses are forced to innovate strategies and technologies to produce esthetic, trendy, cost-effective, and versatile lines while simultaneously their clients offering new experiences.

    For instance, someone who has four Precita earrings can wear them in 20 different ways. The brand personalizes wedding rings by engraving hearts on their inside.

    Earlier this year Precita tweaked its website to enable customers to research products and buy with a few clicks.

    In 2017 and 2018 Lacoste spent its entire marketing budget on digital media like online newspapers and magazines, social networks and outdoor displays in malls and other venues frequented by young people.

    The brand also employs young influencers to promote its items, including models Quang Dai and Helly Song, Miss Vietnam H’Hen Nie and singers Noo Phuoc Thinh and Isaac.

    This marketing ploy has been adopted by many businesses to connect with the millennial customer.

    As for Christine Chen, not only did find jewelry for her friend, but also got to personally enclose it for her in a small, pretty chest.

    “This shop is decorated like a treasure chest and each chest has its own code. All I have to do is pass the code to my friend and she will have a pleasant gift experience.”

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  • Changing face of retail becomes the focus in HKTDC Asian e-Tailing Summit

    Changing face of retail becomes the focus in HKTDC Asian e-Tailing Summit

    As e-commerce continues to grow, it is fundamentally changing the face of retail. It has already influenced how many products and services are being sold, from clothes, packaged goods and seafood to hotel bookings, music files and taxi services.

    Because of this, companies of all sizes in all sectors cannot afford to ignore this channel, which is the focus of the upcoming Asian e-Tailing Summit, being organised by the Hong Kong government’s HKTDC. It is aimed at e-commerce professionals, retailers, industry leaders, service providers and users, as well as brand owners and suppliers, online marketplaces and platforms, wholesalers and distributors.

    As social networks proliferate and supply chains improve, more and more people are buying from foreign online shops. E-commerce Foundation figures show that more than 300 million consumers worldwide are now buying from merchants outside their own immediate jurisdiction, and Euromonitor International says this number is expected to increase to nearly one billion by 2020.

    On the move

    Other research shows that the total value of purchases made by cross-border online consumers is growing at the rate of 28 per cent a year and is set to reach US$1 trillion by 2020, and much of this shopping is being done on the move by smartphone. As well as searching for products or services, smartphone users can easily compare product specs and prices, download coupons and make online purchases all in one go.

    Overall, m-commerce has been a game changer, making it a necessity for merchants to have a mobile-optimised website or app. Ideally, every retailer should offer omni-channel options, and also be aware of social-media opportunities.

    In China, meanwhile, billions of shops now accept payments via Alipay and/or WeChat Pay. On the international front, Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Tap & Go have also swelled the number of digital wallets available. Improved and safer e-wallet technology has been a key factor in optimising the O2O buying experience.

    An overview of this fast-growing side or retail will be offered at the Asian e-Tailing Summit, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, on December 6, with speakers representing such companies as eBay, Fung Global Retail and Technology, Gartner, KPMG, Lazada, Macy’s China, PayPal, Sephora, Suning and Zalora.

    It launches with a plenary session that looks at the impact of rising digital consumption on the world economy.

    There will be two breakout sessions following the plenary. The first examines worldwide procurement for cross-border e-commerce, while the other looks at the social-commerce movement as an omnichannel priority.

    Two concurrent workshops wind up the event. The first offers practical tips on cross-border e-commerce, while the other covers best practice in e-commerce.

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  • Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference Opens 23 Nov

    Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference Opens 23 Nov

    The seventh Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference (ALMC) will be held 23-24 November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The two-day conference is jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). This year’s ALMC will spotlight three important topics, including the Belt and Road Initiative, e-Commerce and smart logistics. About 70 luminaries from the logistics and maritime sectors will speak at the conference to share their visionary ideas. ALMC is expected to attract about 2,000 industry experts from some 20 countries and regions to take part and explore business opportunities.

    HKTDC Assistant Executive Director Stephen Liang said, “As the Belt and Road Initiative is turned from vision to action, and the rapid development of logistic technology is speeding up changes in the global supply chain, there is huge demand for logistics and efficient ocean shipment services in Asia. As the largest event of its kind in Asia, the Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference strives to provide the ideal platform for the industry to learn about the latest development and explore business opportunities.”

    Belt and Road spotlight

    Stephen Liang said that to match market demand, this year’s ALMC will focus discussions on hot topics, including the Belt and Road Initiative, e-Commerce and smart logistics. Apart from the main conference and forums, exhibitions and networking receptions will also be organised led by heavyweight speakers.

    New e-Commerce Support and Tech Applications zone

    This year’s exhibition will feature over 120 exhibitors showcasing supply chain management, logistics, maritime and related services. The E-Commerce Support and Tech Applications zone will debut with a range of fundamental toolkits, such as document management and e-Commerce tools including Internet security and real-time tracking system, offering professional and comprehensive services and solutions. To drive more business cooperation, the HKTDC will arrange more than 140 one-on-one business-matching sessions to help exhibitors and participants foster new business collaborations during the event.

    Close to 70 renowned speakers share thoughts

    Some 70 industry experts and representatives of international brands will speak at the ALMC. Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, Minister of Transport, Thailand, will deliver a keynote speech at the opening session. Among the highlights will be the two plenary sessions. The first, entitled “Belt and Road: Growth Engine Driving New Era for Global Trade” (23 November), will examine the prospects and challenges for the industry in light of the rapid development of the new Europe-Asia sea and land trade route, the ASEAN market and railway cargo transport. Dr Victor K Fung, Chairman of Fung Group, will be the keynote speaker at the first plenary session. Other speakers will include Siddique Khan, President, Kerry Globalink, and chaired by Ben Bland, South China Correspondent, Financial Times.

    The second plenary session, entitled “Delivering New World Order for Online Shopping” (24 November), features speakers including Cissy Chan, Executive Director, Commercial, Airport Authority Hong Kong; James Gagne, President, SEKO Logistics; Katsuhiko Umetsu, Director and Chairman, Yamato Global Logistics Japan Co, Ltd; James Chang, Chief Crossborder Officer, Lazada Group; and chaired by Fox Chu, Partner, Transportation, Travel and Logistics Practice, McKinsey & Company.

    Forums explores industry development

    Apart from the plenary sessions, other forums will cover hot issues such as supply chain management, logistics, maritime and airfreight. Topics include Halal Logistics, Temperature-controlled Cargo Handling, and Digital Supply Chains for F&B Logistics. Canada and Zhuhai will hold two forums to discuss regional logistics cooperation. The Canadian National Railway (CN) will explore seamless cooperation between North American ports and railway logistics, while representatives of the Zhuhai Municipal Government will examine new opportunities from the completion of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the development of the Big Bay Area.

    Flagship event for Hong Kong Maritime Week

    ALMC is one of the celebratory events for the Hong Kong SAR’s 20th anniversary, garnering support from various sectors and matching the event’s theme “Together, Progress, Opportunity.” ALMC is also a flagship event of the Hong Kong Maritime Week, organised by the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board. The ALMC is supported by the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council and Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board. The HKTDC invited 20 global leaders in the logistics and shipping industries and representatives of internationally renowned companies to serve as honorary advisors to provide advice on the agenda and content of the ALMC.

  • Major push in Kuala Lumpur by HKTDC

    Major push in Kuala Lumpur by HKTDC

    A major promotion for Hong Kong as an international business centre and lifestyle trendsetting city is being run in Kuala Lumpur by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).

    “In Style, Hong Kong” includes offers a range of events involving top business professionals and leading brands from Hong Kong.

    Already the campaign has been a success in Jakarta in 2015 and in Bangkok last year, says HKTDC regional director Peter Wong.

    “Malaysia was Hong Kong’s 10th-largest trading partner last year and fourth-largest among Asean countries. Our campaign in Kuala Lumpur focuses on promoting Hong Kong’s professional services and leading brands. Our objective is to forge wider co-operation and to generate more business opportunities for both cities.”

    Key events

    Key events include a symposium, an expo and gala dinner, and a series of citywide promotion events until the end of next month.

    The “In Style, Hong Kong” Symposium at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur on November 7 main session will be chaired by MaLogic CEO Professor Royce Yuen with speakers from HPA, LF Logistics and Pixels examining how Hong Kong service companies can help Malaysian companies expand their business.

    Five thematic sessions will follow:

    E-commerce Logistics The impact of cross-border e-commerce on logistics will be examined by representatives of Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, Lazada Group and Malaysian Chamber of Commerce.

    Fintech Prospects in fintech will be discussed by representatives of Ernst & Young, JP Asia Partners, Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, Maybank and Value Partners Group.

    Smart City Forum Smart city development will be examined by executives of the EID Committee, Hong Kong Public Key Infrastructure Forum, Nexusguard and The Smart City Consortium.

    Innovative Design & Marketing Creative branding will include speakers from LAAB, PricewaterhouseCoopers Hong Kong, Sun Mobile Communication and WE Marketing Group.

    Legal Risk Management

    Legal professionals from Hong Kong feature on this panel including members of The Law Society of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Bar Association committee on arbitration.

    The expo will feature 40 exhibitors showcasing home electronics, gifts, fashion accessories, fine jewellery and watches, and eco-friendly products. Exhibiting brands include Chinese Arts & Crafts, Chow Tai Fook, ECO Concepts and Team Green. There will also be a display of award-winning products from the Hong Kong Smart Design Awards.

    A gala dinner will be held after the symposium will enable 500 of Malaysia and Hong Kong’s political, business and community leaders to network. Michelin Star chef Alvin Leung will create four dishes, and there will be a fashion parade showcasing batik styles from six Hong Kong designers as well as an interactive photography gallery.

    To promote the event to consumers, the HKTDC has launched a series of promotions engaging 140 Kuala Lumpur restaurants and retail outlets, in partnership with 30 Hong Kong and Malaysian brands.

    Activities include fashion and culinary experiences.

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  • Retail woes a boost for Hong Kong indie fashion

    Retail woes a boost for Hong Kong indie fashion

    High-end international brands have long held court alongside local Hong Kong indie fashion designers – who are now enjoying greater visibility in the city’s vibrant retail market.

    The city’s deep-rooted love of luxury has seen names like Gucci and Hermes open multiple stores in the city – stores that have co-existed with a stable of local apparel brands, such as Giordano, Baleno, Bossini and Esprit.

    By 2014, consumers’ tastes had diversified and fast-fashion overseas brands began descending on Hong Kong. The arrival of names like Topshop, American Eagle, H&M, Zara and Mango added yet more to the mix in Asia’s favourite shopping destination. Now that shop rents are finally becoming more affordable, independent fashion retailers are increasingly making their presence felt.

    Structural change

    In a report by commercial real estate firm CBRE, Joe Lin, executive director, retail services at CBRE Hong Kong, said that the city is undergoing a period of structural change.

    “Over the previous decade, high-street shop landlords have reaped the benefits of strong demand from luxury retailers and massive rental growth.”

    Lin noted that in the past 12 months, luxury retailers have adjusted their leasing strategies to save costs. “Landlords have become more realistic on rental negotiations, enabling more mid-range brands to tap into prime locations at relatively affordable rental levels.”

    The trend has opened the door for mid-market brands to expand, and for the rise of independent labels.

    “More independent stores are coming back to the market, streets, malls, and even some up-and-coming revitalised buildings in the traditional industrial districts, such as Lai Chi Kok and Kwun Tong,” said Lin. “They modernise the decoration and with the decent F&B outlets that draw good foot-traffic to these areas, independent retailers also benefit from this new trend.”

    Refined taste

    British fashion designer Elizabeth Lau established The Refinery in 2014 after moving to Hong Kong with her husband. Lau said she saw an opportunity to “curate for individuals” in Hong Kong by introducing unique fashion, accessories and lifestyle brands from around the world.

    Her first store, at the creative and design hub PMQ in Central, found a steady following, and in January 2016, The Refinery opened a second retail outlet in Tai Koo.

    Fashion edit

    Partners in fashion Genevieve Chew and Jacqueline Chak, an accountant and architect respectively, launched Edit in Central in 2012 as a concept store stocking emerging brands. They later created their own in-house label, which is described as “one part eclectic femininity and the other relaxed ease.” Their collections are worn by fashion personalities such as Yasmin Sewell, Margaret Zhang and Amanda Strang. The partners have also designed uniforms for Hong Kong’s new boutique Tribute Hotel in Kowloon.

    Fé Valvekens is another career-change entrepreneur who found her fashion foothold in Hong Kong. German-born Valvekens is a qualified engineer who founded fashion label A Day with Fé, blending daywear with yoga wear. Her PMQ store in Central also holds yoga and fashion styling workshops

    Quality indie labels

    Building on her established career in fashion, US expat Jamie Dredge co-founded Polkadot Boutique on Hollywood Road, Central, in 2011. After moving to Hong Kong two years earlier, Dredge spotted a gap between high-end luxury designers and mass-market clothing in Hong Kong.

    Her idea was to offer quality, well-designed womenswear and accessories from indie labels in the US, as well as supporting upcoming local designers.

    “We still have our local-based designers, but are also working with hot new labels out of Los Angeles and New York,” she said. Examples include Yumi Kim and Blank NYC Denim from New York, Veronica M from Los Angeles, and Hong Kong’s What the Frock?!.

    Being an independent retailer in Hong Kong has its challenges, said Dredge. Rents remain high, especially for smaller operators who don’t have the negotiating leverage of a famous brand. The demise of free print lifestyle magazine HK Magazine, which folded last year after 25 years, closed one door for independents to build a profile – and paid advertising is expensive.

    “We now have to work harder on our social media channels – and be more creative in our promotions,” Dredge said.

    On the other hand, word-of-mouth networking is an advantage in a city as close knit as Hong Kong.

    Pop-ups and collaborations

    One of Polkadot’s strategies is to host events where customers can meet the designers for a social night out, which might involve hair and makeup as well as fashion. One of the “biggest perks of Hong Kong” is the willingness of businesses to collaborate with each other, Dredge said.

    “Hong Kong is great for doing pop-up events and collaborations, which get the customers involved,” she said.

    It also illustrates how a physical boutique can still be successful, despite the challenges of online shopping.

    “People still like to feel the clothes, to try them on, to talk to the designer,” she said.

    “A lot of our garments are unique, and many of them exclusive. Our customers aren’t walking around seeing other people dressed the same, and that’s why they come to us.”

    -HKTDC

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  • Activewear and F&B driving Hong Kong retail innovation

    Activewear and F&B driving Hong Kong retail innovation

    Food and beverage and lifestyle is driving Hong Kong retail innovation, says property expert Shaun McManus with JLL Hong Kong.

    “The activewear and sports apparel sector has been a front-runner in elevating in-store experiences for shoppers,” McManus, who specialises in lifestyle retail and F&B with the property  company. “Looking to boost their winter sales, Adidas recently added a virtual reality fitting room in their flagship store in Causeway Bay, giving customers the chance to test new products in a training run simulation that mimics winter weather through a temperature control system,” he wrote in a market review.

    Nike’s new 13,000 sqft flagship store on Granville Road in Tsim Sha Tsui offers customised T-shirts and sports bras, as well as a personalised coaching section where customers can test running shoes on a treadmill to see if they are the right fit.

    JLL’s foodservice consulting team forecasts that by 2020, 80 per cent of retailers will have some form of additional entertainment element or other unique offerings, like these within their stores.

    “The progression of omni-channel retailing – through physical and online stores and mobile apps – is another pattern that looks likely to emerge in 2017. Unlike other markets, eCommerce has yet to gain a strong foothold in Hong Kong.

    According to the Hong Kong Trade and Development Council, online sales account for less than 5 per cent of total retail sales among retailers with an omni-channel sales platform within the city.

    “To boost sales, retailers are increasingly turning to social media platforms to sell their goods, and will look to take advantage of apps like Instagram and Snapchat to give customers a behind-the-scenes look at their operations with the aim of building brand engagement and legions of loyal followers,” says McManus.

    “With over 40 million hits per month on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat combined; it is no wonder popular brands such as watchmaker Daniel Wellington are attributing the largest proportion of their revenue to their social media marketing campaigns.”

    McManus also forecasts that this year promises a further shift away from traditional shopping mall tenant mixes towards an increased focus on entertainment hubs and food courts.

    “Many developers are already starting to reposition their portfolios. Swire Properties – whose shopping mall portfolio in Hong Kong includes Pacific Place Mall, CityPlaza and Citygate Outlets – has been at the forefront of this movement. At Pacific Place Mall, for example, it has increased the F&B footprint by more than 20 per cent in the space of 12 months and totally revamped its cinema complex to include a new VIP House with state-of-the-art sound system technology, higher resolution screens and vibrating seats. These changes have all been made with the aim of increasing and retaining footfall to the mall and attracting new customers.

    “The use of pop-up stores will also continue to be popular in prime malls, enabling landlords to optimise space and minimise void periods; an important consideration given the current challenges facing the city’s retail sector.”

    McManus says that for consumers, revolving pop-up stores freshen the shopping experience and encourage repeat visits.

    “All of the above factors point towards a more balanced and increasingly vibrant retail market for Hong Kong in 2017, and suggests that it is far from all doom and gloom for the sector in the year ahead. Rather, we believe these changes are ushering in a healthier retail climate that drives domestic consumption and is less reliant on tourist spend. Hong Kong must, and will, maintain its status as a shopper’s paradise in Asia for the foreseeable future.”

  • 2,000+ Buyers Visit First HKTDC Lifestyle Expo in New Delhi

    2,000+ Buyers Visit First HKTDC Lifestyle Expo in New Delhi

    The inaugural HKTDC Lifestyle Expo in New Delhi welcomed more than 2,000 trade buyers during its two-day run on 19 and 20 December 2016, as 120 Hong Kong and mainland companies showcased a range of trendy, high-quality products, reaffirming Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s lifestyle trendsetter and “super-connector” in business.

    Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Trade Development Bureau (TDB) of the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the expo took place at The Lalit New Delhi.

    Apart from bringing a slice of Hong Kong lifestyle to India, the event also helped develop stronger bilateral trade relations between India and the Chinese mainland.

    The Opening Ceremony was officiated by LC Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director, India Trade Promotion Orgnisation, Stephen Liang, Assistant Executive Director, HKTDC, Jin Hong, Deputy Director-General, Trade Development Bureau, Ministry of Commerce, The People’s Republic of China, and Li Bai Jun, Commercial Counsellor, Economic Counsellor’s office of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of India.

    Bridging India and China

    “We have very big hopes for the future of trade links between India and China, with Hong Kong serving as a ‘super-connector’ between two of the world’s most populous and fastest-growing large economies,” said Mr Liang.

    “India and China are two of the fastest-growing large economies on earth, with the IMF (International Monetary Fund) predicting GDP growth of 7.6 per cent and 6.2 per cent respectively in 2017. Together, they have a combined population of some 2.7 billion potential consumers,” he added.

    Individual buyers and buying missions came from New Delhi and other cities and regions including Mumbai, Chandigarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Punjab.

    At the Lifestyle Expo, the exhibitors paraded a variety of modern, high-calibre products including consumer electronics and ICT, gifts and premium, household products and electrical appliances, fashion and accessories and watches and clocks. The expo also featured trade-related services.

    These attracted buyers from different sectors, including importers, distributors, mass retailers, mail-order houses, department stores and specialised stores.

    Getting Connected

    The HKTDC arranged more than 1,600 one-to-one business matching meetings and various networking events during the expo to further connect Hong Kong and Chinese mainland suppliers with buyers.

    A brand new “Live Chat” service was offered at the Thematic Showcase Display zone, where staff connected buyers to off-site exhibitors via WhatsApp for real-time discussion of potential deals.

    The expo also featured the popular hktdc.com Small Orders showcase spotlighting 150 products available for orders in quantities of between five and 1,000 units. This allowed buyers to place small orders to test the market while minimising their risks. It also leveraged the growing trend of e-tailing that is changing the face of international trade.

    Business leads

    Exhibitors reported positive results from their participation in the event. Andy Lee, Managing Director of Hong Kong houseware supplier Star Express Asia Ltd. said he was happy with the quality of the Indian buyers. The company received about 25 serious enquiries, including a potential customer he had established contact with through the HKTDC Showcase Display at the China Products (Mumbai India) Exhibition 2016.

    Hong Kong LED lighting supplier Celex LED Technology Ltd Business Development Director Andrew Tsang said he was satisfied with the results, having been approached by “very good” Indian buyers including a lighting contractor and LED lighting distributors from Mumbai and New Delhi.

    Hong Kong online marketing services promoter CG Marketing Co Ltd, was keen to find local partners, and the company received more than 30 enquiries from various sectors, including online marketing, travel, toys and electronics products.

    The inaugural HKTDC Lifestyle Expo in New Delhi welcomed more than 2,000 trade buyers during its two-day run on 19 and 20 December 2016, as 120 Hong Kong and mainland companies showcased a range of trendy, high-quality products, reaffirming Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s lifestyle trendsetter and “super-connector” in business.

    Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Trade Development Bureau (TDB) of the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the expo took place at The Lalit New Delhi.

    Apart from bringing a slice of Hong Kong lifestyle to India, the event also helped develop stronger bilateral trade relations between India and the Chinese mainland.

    The Opening Ceremony was officiated by LC Goyal, Chairman and Managing Director, India Trade Promotion Orgnisation, Stephen Liang, Assistant Executive Director, HKTDC, Jin Hong, Deputy Director-General, Trade Development Bureau, Ministry of Commerce, The People’s Republic of China, and Li Bai Jun, Commercial Counsellor, Economic Counsellor’s office of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of India.

    Bridging India and China

    “We have very big hopes for the future of trade links between India and China, with Hong Kong serving as a ‘super-connector’ between two of the world’s most populous and fastest-growing large economies,” said Mr Liang.

    “India and China are two of the fastest-growing large economies on earth, with the IMF (International Monetary Fund) predicting GDP growth of 7.6 per cent and 6.2 per cent respectively in 2017. Together, they have a combined population of some 2.7 billion potential consumers,” he added.

    Individual buyers and buying missions came from New Delhi and other cities and regions including Mumbai, Chandigarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and Punjab.

    At the Lifestyle Expo, the exhibitors paraded a variety of modern, high-calibre products including consumer electronics and ICT, gifts and premium, household products and electrical appliances, fashion and accessories and watches and clocks. The expo also featured trade-related services.

    These attracted buyers from different sectors, including importers, distributors, mass retailers, mail-order houses, department stores and specialised stores.

    Getting Connected

    The HKTDC arranged more than 1,600 one-to-one business matching meetings and various networking events during the expo to further connect Hong Kong and Chinese mainland suppliers with buyers.

    A brand new “Live Chat” service was offered at the Thematic Showcase Display zone, where staff connected buyers to off-site exhibitors via WhatsApp for real-time discussion of potential deals.

    The expo also featured the popular hktdc.com Small Orders showcase spotlighting 150 products available for orders in quantities of between five and 1,000 units. This allowed buyers to place small orders to test the market while minimising their risks. It also leveraged the growing trend of e-tailing that is changing the face of international trade.

    Business leads

    Exhibitors reported positive results from their participation in the event. Andy Lee, Managing Director of Hong Kong houseware supplier Star Express Asia Ltd. said he was happy with the quality of the Indian buyers. The company received about 25 serious enquiries, including a potential customer he had established contact with through the HKTDC Showcase Display at the China Products (Mumbai India) Exhibition 2016.

    Hong Kong LED lighting supplier Celex LED Technology Ltd Business Development Director Andrew Tsang said he was satisfied with the results, having been approached by “very good” Indian buyers including a lighting contractor and LED lighting distributors from Mumbai and New Delhi.

    Hong Kong online marketing services promoter CG Marketing Co Ltd, was keen to find local partners, and the company received more than 30 enquiries from various sectors, including online marketing, travel, toys and electronics products.

    Lifestyle trendsetter

    The Lifestyle Expo is one of the HKTDC’s signature international promotion events and has a successful track record in fostering trade between companies from Hong Kong and emerging markets worldwide including Russia, Poland, Turkey, Dubai, India and Indonesia. The Lifestyle Expo in Mumbai was successfully held in 2010.

    The Lifestyle Expo is one of the HKTDC’s signature international promotion events and has a successful track record in fostering trade between companies from Hong Kong and emerging markets worldwide including Russia, Poland, Turkey, Dubai, India and Indonesia. The Lifestyle Expo in Mumbai was successfully held in 2010.

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  • LF Beauty to exploit Asian beauty boom

    LF Beauty to exploit Asian beauty boom

    Li & Fung Group subsidiary LF Beauty is seeking to cash in on soaring demand for beauty products in Mainland China and wider Asia.

    China’s skincare and cosmetics market is projected by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council to grow by an average annual rate of  of 12.8 per cent from this year through 2019 – considerably faster than the expected global rate of 6 per cent.

    “Asian beauty is now setting the pace for the world. China, South Korea, Japan as well as the entire Southeast Asian market, are very important for us. [That] represents about 4.5 billion in population,” said Gerard Raymond, president of LF Beauty, in an article published by China Daily.

    A large population base dominated by younger demographic distinguishes the Asian market from more mature western markets, he said.

    “The younger generation consumer knowledge and wealth is growing very fast. And they are very willing to try new and innovative things.”

    LF Beauty is partners with suppliers and retailers of product solutions including fragrances, skincare, color cosmetics, and in a one-stop-shop offer provides retailers with logistics support, merchandising systems and point-of-sale solutions.

    Raymond said in the China Daily report that “there never have been more opportunities for brands to stand out and keep pace with their consumers” than in the Asia region

    “It’s never been more challenging. In this competitive environment, we work to help many of the world’s best-loved brands to innovate, thrive and become market leaders,” he said.

    “We have seen that Chinese women now are very interested in beauty products from South Korea,” he said. “In this respect, we have already established a joint venture in South Korea, which allows us to transfer their knowledge to Chinese market directly and serve the demands of local consumers.”

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  • The 23rd Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer Curtains Up in July with Debut Women’s Wear and Knitwear Zones

    The 23rd Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer Curtains Up in July with Debut Women’s Wear and Knitwear Zones

    The 23rd HKTDC Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer (FWSS) will be staged from 4-7 July 2016 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with Women’s wear and Knitwear as debut zones to optimize buyers’ sourcing selection. The premium fair in the region is expecting around 1,200 worldwide exhibitors. Previous edition attracted 16,000 buyers from 65 countries and regions.

    Popular thematic zones return

    Private or house labels have become increasingly effective marketing tools among fashion industry players to differentiate and upgrade the image of products. Emporium de Mode in FWSS is a dedicated premium section dedicated to promote elegant fashion brands. Fashion Gallery is an ideal platform to display brand labels and high fashion while the International Fashion Designers’ Showcase showcases unique designer brands for potential clients. Under the four major categories of Apparel, Upstream Supplies, Fashion Accessories and Technology and Business Matching, zoning will be fine-tuned to Footwear, Leggings & Socks, Eyewear, Hair Accessories & Headwear, Belts and Ties and Embroidery & Sewing Supplies to offer one stop platform to best catering buyers’ demand. Other popular zones will return with splendour, including Activewear & Sportswear, Intimate & Swim Wear, Children’s Wear, Men in Style, Denim Arcade and Fabrics & Yarn. Qualified exhibitors are awarded a “Green Solution Suppliers” insignia on their booth fascia to address the growing demand on eco-friendly apparel.

    China market remains resilient

    Chinese mainland market continues to be a driving force for Hong Kong Fashion industry. As of 29 Feb 2016, Hong Kong’s total exports of clothing & clothing accessories to mainland and Macau rose 2.2% and 8.8% respectively to $1.42 billion and $504 million. According to HKTDC’s research, mainland consumers generally find Hong Kong clothing brands trendsetting, fashionable and tasteful. They are willing to pay an average premium of 36% to purchase Hong Kong branded garments. Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer serves an effective springboard for traders to expand their business in mainland and Asian market.

    “This fair is the right place for us to gain exposure to meet buyers. Buyers from the mainland and Australia are especially keen to source from us,” said Martens Yiu, Managing Director of Deut St. Limited which is expanding Chinese market. Stationed in Hong Kong, the company has been an exhibitor of Hong Kong Fashion Week for Spring/Summer for consecutive 3 years, reflecting its confidence on HKTDC’s marketing platform for business promotion.

    Neon Garden as fair theme

    With the theme of Neon Garden, a series of fashion house shows and runway parades will go alongside the Fashion Week to reinforce Hong Kong’s position as Asian fashion trendsetter. HKTDC offers business matching services, networking receptions, seminars and buyer forums during fair to provide a perfect platform for industry players to exchange market intelligence and explore new business opportunities. WGSN and Fashion Snoops are invited to talk about market trend. The Small-Order Zone is available for buyers sourcing from 5 to 1,000 pieces.

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  • Hong Kong textile eye India as alternative production base to cut cost

    Hong Kong textile eye India as alternative production base to cut cost

    India is rising, not only as a new choice of relocating labour-intensive industries from China, but also as a retail market of good potential, says a research report by The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).

    In recent years, the sustained rise in production costs on the Chinese mainland has eroded the profit margins of many Hong Kong companies with labour-intensive factories located on the Chinese mainland, prompting them to seek alternative production bases elsewhere.

    While Southeast Asian countries offer many choices, the HKTDC report says India offers many advantages as an alternative production base, along with the added advantage of having a domestic market of great potential.

    According to the report, the majority of Indian garment producers are focused on the domestic market, as their product quality was generally lower than the standards required by overseas importers.

    Despite this, many big Indian exporters have successfully lined up with international buyers, including department stores, retail chains and brands.

    The paper was written after a recent field trip to India that included factory visits and interviews with garment manufacturers.

    In the four years to 2014, India’s garment exports increased at an average annual rate of 12 per cent, surpassing China’s 9 per cent, in line with Bangladesh’s 13 per cent and eclipsed by Vietnam’s 17 per cent.

    With advantages of raw materials and prospects of vertical integration, India is a strong garment exporting country and a location worth considering for factory relocation in relation to labour-intensive manufacturing, such as garment-making.

    The report pointed out that while China is the undisputed world leader in exporting textiles and garment products, many have overlooked India’s position as the world’s second biggest exporter of textile and garment products in 2014, selling a total of $36 billion, during the year, far behind China’s $399 billion.

    For textile exports alone, India was second after China in 2014, with a share of 5.8 per cent of the global market, compared to China’s enormous 35.6 per cent share.

    HKTDC says it is not surprising that the bulk of garment manufacturing in India is for the domestic market, supported by the country’s huge capacity in textiles production.

    India stands out to be a substantial exporter in both garments and textiles. In 2014, India imported textiles worth only $3.8 billion, lagging much behind Vietnam’s $12 billion, Bangladesh’s $6.8 billion, and just ahead of Cambodia’s $3 billion, the report said.

  • HKTDC Design Gallery Wan Chai relaunched

    HKTDC Design Gallery Wan Chai relaunched

    The Hong Kong Trade Development Council has unveiled a revamped HKTDC Design Gallery shop at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

    HKTDC executive director Margaret Fong was joined by famous Hong Kong actor Moses Chan and many of the city’s top designers at an opening ceremony yesterday.

    The store was created to promote products invented back in 1991.

    The diverse variety of products on offer highlights the extraordinary creativity of Hong Kong designers in areas ranging from jewellery, watches, electronics and fashion to home products, gifts and children’s items.

    The revamped HKTDC Design Gallery Wan Chai shop showcases nearly 5500 innovative products from more than 230 Hong Kong designers and brands in eight distinctly designed zones.

    Hong Kong designer brands feature in DG Discover; handbags and accessories in DG Vogue; environmentally friendly products in DG Green; baby and children’s products in DG Mini; home goods and gifts in DG Delights; electronic and digital goods in DG Smart; high-end luxury products such as jewellery, watches and leather and cashmere goods in DG Luxe; and collaborative creations by Hong Kong designers and international brands that combine the best of East and West in DG Plus.

    Featuring minimalist geometric shapes and a circular motif, the design of the revamped HKTDC Design Gallery shop creates a vibrant atmosphere to engage customers and elevate brand image. Light wood colours, grey gradients and black linear accents are used to create a comfortable, contemporary environment. The DG Luxe zone is distinguished from other areas of the shop by the use of dark wood colours and deep grey fabric lining.

    At the opening ceremony, Fong said that thanks to the support of local residents, visitors and traders, the shop has been attracting more than 1 million customers each year.

    Apart from new Design Gallery shops in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Wuhan and other mainland cities, Fong also spoke about the HKTDC’s strategy of collaborating with department stores and lifestyle shops to set up “shops in shops” in Hong Kong and on the Chinese mainland, to bring the best Hong Kong brands to more customers.

    Fong said the HKTDC is also establishing online shops on leading Hong Kong eCommerce platforms such as ShopThruPost, YesStyle and Zalora, as well as Taobao, Tmall and JD.com on the Chinese mainland, in an effort to develop eCommerce opportunities for Hong Kong businesses.

    Between now and December 2015, customers who make a one-time purchase of HK$300 or more at any HKTDC Design Gallery shop in Hong Kong will be entitled to lifetime membership with the DG Club. Members are entitled to a special shopping discount and can earn points to redeem for exclusive gifts or instant cash rebates. To celebrate the re-launch of the HKTDC Design Gallery Wan Chai shop, members will be awarded double points for purchases made between 16 and 18 November 2015.

    The HKTDC Design Gallery Wan Chai Shop is located on the ground floor of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Harbour Rd, Wan Chai.

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