Stone launch in Asia's premier retail market (hktdc.com)


	President of Stone Market Co Ltd, Nakamura Taijiro (right) briefing Invest HK"s Mark Michelson, on the products displayed at the retail outlet

Stone Market Co Ltd, a famous Japanese brand which designs, manufactures and sells gem stones, natural stones and silver accessories, recently opened its first retail outlet in Hong Kong. It is the retailer's first outlet outside of Japan.

The President of Stone Market Co Ltd, Nakamura Taijiro, said the company wants to expand to Asia through Hong Kong. "We have been very successful with our retail business by using Fukuoka as a base to manage the expansion of outlets across Japan. In the same way, we hope to make use of Hong Kong as a strategic base to roll out our expansion plans in Asia," he said.

Mr Nakamura explained why Hong Kong is an ideal choice for Stone Market. "The economic growth of Hong Kong is remarkable and is catching up with Japan. The consumer market is very robust. As most of our products are unisex accessories catered for all generation, we foresee a huge potential in the local retail market. Moreover, Hong Kong's geographical convenience and our established network here are major reasons of our decision to choose Hong Kong to open our first store outside of Japan."

Mr Nakamura said that the company plans to open two more retail outlets in Hong Kong this year.

Enhance regional coordinatioin

Stone Market strives to stay abreast of the latest global fashion trends and has been importing popular merchandise and natural stones through various sources around the world. This strategy enables the company to swiftly respond to the fast changing needs of today's sophisticated customers.

At present, the company' executives visit Hong Kong frequently, about once every two months, for product procurement. The establishment of an office here could enhance efficiency and regional coordination.

The Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong, Mark Michelson, said Hong Kong is a retail capital housing the world's premier brands, as well as medium and small-sized retailers.

"With its central location and huge market comprising locals and tourists, Hong Kong is an ideal 'display window' for retailers to showcase their products to the world and a great springboard to access the Mainland and international markets," he added.

Established in 1994 in Fukuoka, Japan, Stone Market has now expanded to 70 shops nationwide in Japan under the brand names of "Stone Market," "Stylish Stone," "Jouir de Bijou" and "Three Prezzo". It has also achieved the highest sales record in Japan's silver accessory industry. The company's product line-up covers over 30,000 items, ranging from trend-setting to standard designs.