Fujian New HuaDu Super Center Co Ltd is one of the leading retail companies in Fujian, China, with its network spanning hypermarkets, supermarkets, household appliance stores and department stores. In March 2010, the company's Chief Procurement Officer Mr Jerry Lin visited Hong Kong to take part in the pre-show Business Matching Meetings via the Fuzhou Trade Mission to meet with Hong Kong exhibitors of the Style Hong Kong Show in Fuzhou (April 2010).
Mr. Lin noted that with Fujian New HuaDu 's broad retail distribution channel, the company is choosing a myriad of products with different price points - those with a more economic price-tag can be sold at hypermarkets, while the high-end ones are suitable for department stores. At present the company is already collaborating with a number of Hong Kong brands, including Lee Kum Kee, Maxim, Amoy, Garden, and Jeanwest.
"Overall, Hong Kong products are guaranteed in their quality. Even the prices of many Hong Kong products are relatively higher than those from the mainland, Hong Kong products are well-accepted and some brands have established a following of loyal customers. Therefore, good Hong Kong products will certainly have lucrative business opportunities in the mainland," highlighted Mr. Lin.
"From this Business Matching activity, we are excited to find a number of companies with very special products-children's wear, ladies apparel, honey, and beddings product; it is very likely that we can work together. I've already planned to send our purchasing manager to further discuss with them at the Style Hong Kong Show in Fuzhou exhibition," continued Mr. Lin.
Fujian New HuaDu has been sourcing their existing Hong Kong suppliers via different channels. The company has as well joined activities organised by the HKTDC since 1996, including participating in various exhibitions.
"As we are not well acquainted with most of the companies in Hong Kong, the Business Matching Specialist can do the preliminary screening to first understand various companies and choose those matching ones which have interest to work with us; it also allows both parties to get well prepared for the meeting. Though that was only our first encounter, we are already making great progress in comparison to doing it the traditional way. Of course, what makes it more perfect is we can follow up with further discussion at the Style Hong Kong Show in Fuzhou' exhibition," added Mr. Lin.
