Vote of confidence from NZ sports specialist (hktdc.com)


	CEO and Founder of Orca, Scott Unsworth (left) with a model in Orca's wetsuit

A leading specialist in triathlon wetsuits and sports apparel is ready to take its international business to the next level from Hong Kong.

Orca, the manufacturer of the world's fastest wetsuits and apparel is determined to spearhead its supply chain management by using Hong Kong as its base for global business development.

In 2005, the company relocated its New Zealand head office to Hong Kong in order to effectively monitor production and stay close to its manufacturers in Asia. Since last November, Orca head office in Hong Kong has become the cost & profit centre for the group. The company will retain an office in New Zealand to handle sales and logistics activities, as well as a sales office in the UK.

Explaining the company's strategy, CEO and Founder of Orca, Scott Unsworth, said: "A gateway to China, Hong Kong is a global logistics hub supported by leading financial services which will enhance Orca's growth."

Key market

"In addition, the city's skilled and experienced labour force in the garment industry will assist the company in sourcing and exploring further business opportunities. Our company currently employs 10 local Hong Kong staff with extensive backgrounds in all areas of garment design and manufacturing."

"Orca's products are worn by many of the World's leading athletes. The company sponsors several international teams including the New Zealand Team at the Athens Olympics in 2004 and most recently triathlon and cycling teams at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.

"Our plan is to make Orca a global brand, and being in Hong Kong allows Orca to be strategically placed to achieve this objective."

"Hong Kong is a key market with the presence of many industry players. The city not only offers healthy competition, but also provides important opportunities for us to stay close to the market development, allowing us to respond quickly to needs and demands," he said.

The advantages of being in Hong Kong enabled Orca to expand into other product lines. Mr Unsworth added: "Orca's diversifying strategy will strengthen the company's base and its worldwide distribution network, and enhance our revenue streams. The critical commitment is to research, design and build products that take centre stage in every sports category. Our team in Hong Kong is the key for these activities."

The Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong, Simon Galpin, said Orca's expansion is a strong vote of confidence in Hong Kong.