We list some of the leading companies that were created and cultivated in Hong Kong in the second part of our series
It’s quite easy to take for granted some of the brands that are made in Hong Kong but known across the world. Whether they are emblazoned on a fleet of moving trucks, lighting up billboards, filling supermarket shelves, or hanging in your closet, local successes are everywhere. Here, we take a look at some of the companies that were born and nurtured in our great city in the second part of our series:
Esprit
Esprit advocates a style that is effortless and easy-going, with its laid back approach to fashion at the heart of the brand’s philosophy. With a presence in over 40 countries that includes 900 directly managed retail stores and over 7,800 wholesale points of sale, the clothing label has come a long way since its inception in 1968. Former chairman and CEO, Michael Ying is credited with Esprit’s exponential growth with sales surging thirty-fold during his tenure. Following 13 years as chairman, Ying retired in 2006 and continues to maintain a low profile but the businessman turned philanthropist is recognised as being largely responsible for the clothing giant’s global expansion.
Lee Kum Kee
Founded in 1888 and now based in Hong Kong, Lee Kum Kee products are sold in over 100 countries, their speciality is in manufacturing a wide range of Chinese and Asian sauces – most notably oyster-flavoured sauce. A descendant of founder Lee Kum Sheng, David Lee is at the helm of the Lee Kum Kee Family Foundation which aims to create a caring and healthy family environment that helps to foster personal development. The Foundation creates and sponsors different platforms and activities to support families to strenghten family relationships and solidarity by educating them to communicate and express love and care effectively.
Tabla
Barrister turned entrepreneur Tania Mohan founded Indian inspired clothing and accessories label Tabla in 1999 which showcases India’s rich heritage of textile traditions, craftsmanship, and colours. From it’s exquisite embroideries to its vibrant history, India is at the heart of Tabla’s DNA. Mohan specialises in contemporarising traditional Indian techniques into a versatile collection thats sold at her flagship Princes Building boutique or at her newly opened London boutique. Mohan’s other endeavours include a variety of philanthropic work that she’s actively involved in in Hong Kong and India.
More Tabla?
The Tatler 10: Tania Mohan
A Day in the Life of Tania Mohan
G2000
In 1989, the market for local clothing brands was quite saturated with many brands competing against each other; however, G2000 was one of the few that survived and founder Michael Tien believes it’s down to the fact that he’s crafted a strong brand identity that was built upon creating affordable, functional, and timeless clothing targeted at young professionals – with Tien believing that their solid brand DNA is what led G2000 to last in the business. A humble businessman, former politician and an active philanthropist, Tien is formerly a member of the Liberal Party which was led by his elder brother James Tien.
Crown Worldwide Group
With their red backdrop, gold crown and prominent white font, Crown Worldwide Group is a symbol of the increased mobility that has been experienced around the globe. Founded by Jim Thompson who has been at the helm of the company since its inception, helped it develop from a simple idea in 1965 to its current position as a leader of global mobility, relocation services, transporation, storage, and logistics services. Additionally, Thompson is often lauded for his extensive charitable contributions and praised for his humble and down-to-earth nature, so it’s no surprise that he was a recipient of the Hong Kong Tatler Diamond Award and also holds a Gold Bauhinia Star.
Chow Tai Fook
Founded by Chow Chi Yuen, the father-in-law of Cheung Yu-tung in 1929, Chow Tai Fook started as a small shop selling traditional gold accessories before establishing their first branch in Queen’s Road Central in 1946. In 1956, Cheung Yu-tung took over and consequently expanded Chow Tai Fook’s business to jewellery retailing in 1960. Fast-forward to today and Chow Tai Fook is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with over 2,000 retail outlets across Hong Kong and China. At the helm of the business today is Adrian Cheng who, in addition to his endeavours directing Chow Tai Fook and New World Group, founded the K11 Art Foundation.