Large Factories vs Small Local Factories
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Every retailer in Hong Kong has the same problem with purchasing and developing inventory from local sources. The continuous dilemma occurs in Furniture - everything is made in China but we can't get it here. Many items we are hoping to acquire are made in huge complexes in Northern China. They are shipping container loads, with minimums of 5 - 100 pcs. each item. There are few retailers in Hong Kong that have that purchasing capability.
So we ALL have to develop locally - keeping shipping costs low and a close relationship during production. We can't go further north, it's too expensive a commute and the freight to you would increase - adding to a more expensive piece. We've developed a way to help you set up on a budget. Many of the prices we quote are actually LOWER than what you will find ex-factory from the large companies.
Please realize the difference in the working conditions between a local factory, with a handful of workers specializing in their trade, and the large factory and it's assembly lines. The photos below may tell a better story. There is no climate control in the factories - and everything is done by hand. There are no nails used in most of our pieces.
All factories make their money on container business. One-of-a-kind pieces are difficult and take more time. It's usually the first time they have ever seen or made the piece requested and it has to be introduced into their production schedule. Please be patient and understanding of getting the item right vs. getting it quickly.
Also making a piece in Northern China is different than here. There is less humidity in Shanghai and Beijing. Think about it - even if the wood is kiln dried - they are working on the wood during very humid conditions year round.
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