| Product Magazines: Product Trends |
Blowing In The Wind
A current of fresh or warm air is the sort of pleasure that fan consumers demand for superior air-cooling devices and heaters. As leading exporters of home appliances, Hong Kong manufacturers have a wide array of fans for world markets, many with enhanced or value-added features. One company with first-rate fans is Bright Host (HK) Ltd. "Reliability, safety and good quality are the three main principles of our business," says managing director Cynthia Chu. "We also register the appearances of all our products to combat design infringement and protect the interests of our clients," she adds. The company recently launched two new models including a modern mini desk fan (KLF-1800) that costs US$10.80 and a stylish antique fan (FT3-30) at US$29. Prices are FOB Hong Kong per item/set. "Using fine plastic and metal from Japan, Korea and Australia, these two models sell briskly in high-end markets in Australia, Japan and Southeast Asia," says Chu. "We capitalise on client knowledge of the latest product trends. Many products are custom-designed between them and us. We also keep ahead in this highly competitive market by producing a large choice of innovative designs. We will unveil at least 10 new models this year," she adds. Established in 1992, OEM orders make up about two- thirds of Bright Host's business. The remaining income comes from in-house brands Techpro and Kou Kyu. Monthly production at a 38,000-square-metre factory in Guangdong Province on the Chinese mainland is 60,000 pieces. The minimum order is one TEU and delivery is 45 days from receipt of L/C. Aesthetic design is a key element used by IMS Int'l Ltd to tap market demand. A wide range of fans for household use comes in an extensive array of novelty designs to fit different interior settings. Popular models include the nostalgic series standing fan (FS1-25), desk fan (FT1-20) and circulator/floor fan (OVF-25X). "Thanks to the persisting market demand for vintage products, the classic series is generating quite a lot of business in Japan, Europe and the US," says assistant general manager Lydia Fan. "Silver and black are the most sought- after colours." IMS also exports to Africa and South America to diversify its markets. "Promotion via participation in trade fairs is an effective way to explore market opportunities and attract new customers," Fan says. The company has been manufacturing electrical ventilation products and home appliances since 1992. All items are produced at its 9,500-square-metre, 500-worker plant in Guangdong Province. The minimum order size is one FEU and standard delivery time is 30 days after order confirmation. A two-week period is possible for special requests. In addition to its fan production catering to OEM orders, IMS also has a house brand line, Imasu, specialising in ventilation products for industrial, household and commercial use. Another company, Hostgood Ltd, manufactures an extensive range of household gadgets at a 10,000-square-metre, 1,000-worker factory in Shunde on the mainland. Monthly production at the ISO 9001-certified factory reaches 300,000 pieces, of which 70% is fans. "We produce an assortment of items including fans, water pots, juicers and blenders, vacuum cleaners and induction cookers, altogether creating an annual turnover of US$15m," says company director Thomas Lai. "About 5% of the turnover is invested in R&D to maintain our edge in new product development," he adds. Established in 1967 as a home appliance manufacturer on the mainland, Hostgood set up its Hong Kong office in 1989 to take care of its export business. "As for future plans, we will capitalise on our strengths in the production of home appliances by offering more multi-functional products and adding extra functions to one single device," he explains. Presently, Europe accounts for 80% of Hostgood's exports, and the company has attained increasingly good sales in Korea and Japan amid the popularity of value-for-money products. Recent successes include a tower fan (MX-120 at US$10.50) and a 10-inch box fan (KYT4-25 at US$8). Both are unit FOB Hong Kong prices. ABS material from Korea, Taiwan and the mainland is used to ensure better quality and finishing. The minimum order is one FEU, and delivery takes 30 days after order confirmation. With more than 20 years in the business, Firmstar Household Appliances Ltd wants its devices to do more than just supply cool air. Its latest invention, the Poly Fan, is an ideal product for all seasons. "This is a new product combining a fan and a heater in one, and there is a filter to hold back dirt and dust in the air," says assistant general manager Kent Sin. "Its twin propellers generate strong winds, while there is a double protection to avoid overheating. Both mechanical and electronic panels are available." Firmstar has built up a strong customer base worldwide for its fan products. However, increasing competition is driving it to extend its reach to other premium items such as gas grills and mini-coolers. The minimum order is one FEU for delivery 30 days after order confirmation. WRITTEN BY VANAPA ONGVISES Contact Details Bright Host (HK) Ltd Firmstar Household Appliances Ltd Hostgood Ltd Housely Industries Ltd IMS Int'l Ltd Waon Development Ltd
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