Hong Kong's understanding of global trends has ensured a ready export market for John Barnes' jewellery business

A combination of innovative spirit, Hong Kong design expertise and mainland China production helped Australian entrepreneur John Barnes to successfully swap careers and start up his own jewellery and premium giftware manufacturing business.

Mr Barnes decided to pursue his dream in 2002, after spending more than 20 years in Hong Kong's hospitality industry. "I had always been interested in jewellery design and manufacturing and decided that the time was right to branch out on my own," he said.

His company, Premium Resources Limited, designs and produces quality sterling silver and silver plated jewellery and luxury gift items for export to Europe, the US and Australia.  "I decided to concentrate on the higher end of the market, where quality is a key factor and design plays a bigger role, rather than the congested, price conscious lower end of the market," Mr Barnes explained.
 
Creative collections

The latest collection of original design jewellery includes bracelets, earrings and necklaces made from a combination of silver, wood and leather, with semi-precious stones sourced from Thailand, Taiwan and China. The company also designs and manufactures silver lipstick holders, name card cases and jewellery boxes.

"We introduce about 400 new items each year and the majority of our design work takes place in Hong Kong," Mr Barnes said. As a recognised centre for quality jewelley production, Hong Kong designers have a broad understanding of the latest trends that appeal to different markets. The company uses four local Hong Kong designers - all graduates from Hong Kong universities - one designer based in Italy and another in the US. "Our team of designers has mastered the challenge of producing jewellery that sells well in the European and US markets but still include a subtle Asian influence."

The company now employs 44 staff in Hong Kong and a further 1,400 production workers at its wholly-owned factory at Panyu in the Pearl River Delta. Business increased by more than 60 per cent last year and is expected to grow a further 65 per cent this year.

Efficiency paves the way

To gain the necessary manufacturing, sourcing and distribution knowledge, Mr Barnes spent two years working for a torch manufacturing company owned by a family friend. His business plan was further assisted by Hong Kong's free port status, efficient transportation and communication systems, allowing the company to process its clients' orders smoothly and efficiently.  "I don't think I could have done this anywhere else and grown the company so quickly," he said. 

The efficiency of Hong Kong International Airport makes it convenient for clients to visit trade shows and to make buying visits, Mr Barnes added.  Hong Kong's Jewellery and Gift and Premium trade fairs are important platforms for networking and showcasing new designs.

"The trade fairs are also ideal places to introduce original designs," he said. "They allow show visitors to see that the Hong Kong jewellery industry can design and supply high quality products while operating their businesses honestly and with integrity."

Related link
Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair