The financial tsunami has dampened the sales performance of many companies, with Tak Li (China) Ltd no exception. Nevertheless, thanks to the Business Matching Service of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Tak Li's business has recently turned a new page.
Christopher Lee of Tak Li is one Hong Kong advancer who ventured into the pet product arena from the toy industry back in 1999. Focusing on high-end dog items with emphasis on product quality and function, Tak Li sells to US importers which distribute to local brands and retailers.
In April 2009, HKTDC received an enquiry from a US company exploring suppliers to develop new products from its patented illumination technology. After careful study by its business matching specialists, HKTDC referred Tak Li, then informing both parties of each other's profile and specific requirements.
Lee was pleasantly surprised when the first order was sealed little more than a month later. Business between the two parties continued in the following months. Tak Li conjured over 60 product varieties out of merely two concepts from this new partner.
Tak Li's one-stop service and value-adding suggestions have thrilled the customer. "While using innovative functions as sales gimmicks, we found ways to reduce cost and increase product durability. Our design team also jazzed up products with attractive packaging, making them eye-catching on shelves," says Lee.
With mutual trust established, the next order soon followed: Tak Li was asked to improve the buyer's existing electronic series. Tak Li has built up expertise in electronic game products over the years, so was able to impress the partner another time by readily contributing practical ideas.
Lee is well satisfied by this match-up as nowadays it is not easy to encounter customers who demand quality products as well as profit.
"Sharing the same business objective not only allowed us to flaunt our creativity, it also brought me immeasurable satisfaction on top of just making deals. Moreover, it also offers us the opportunity to show our capability to the market," highlights Lee.
Exhibiting at trade shows is Tak Li's major marketing tool, however, not every prototype can be showcased as some may involve commercial secrets. At this point, HKTDC Business Matching can certainly give a helping hand.
"The business matching specialists are very professional and abreast of market trends. Besides, they are fully aware of our strengths and thus can make the right referrals," notes Lee.
