Lessons for all businesses working in China

I’m always happy to share insights and learnings with anyone interested in taking their business to an international market.

At the start of 2018, TILT set out with a goal of exploring whether there is a market for us to operate and thrive within Asia. We have been more than convinced that this is true. 

For our fifth and final overseas marketing trip for 2018, we returned to the Chinese province of Guangdong for Guangzhou Design Week. This trip completes the year-long program we’ve undertaken to explore opportunities for TILT in China and South East Asia. 

Overall, it has been an invaluable exercise. Below is a summary of our learnings and tips for all businesses considering working in China:

- There is great value in collaborating to pursue overseas opportunities. We couldn’t have done it on our own so be open to working with specialists to assist with strategy as well as facilitating the details of the trips 

- A sustained and strategic approach to marketing will lead to repeated networking opportunities, deepening your commercial resource pool. This will allow you to find new project collaborators and brand ambassadors

- Conducting extensive international market research will enable you to develop a more comprehensive approach to your domestic marketing and your product R&D strategy 

As a result of the program, TILT-designed products are being considered for several significant international property developments. This presents an opportunity for us to deliver our design services to a global market. 

The support and expertise that has been provided to TILT via Dominion House, government grants and others has made the process not only accessible but also much easier to navigate. We have been warmly welcomed by the design industry in Asia. 

Thank you to co-exhibitors Earthwood Floors and AMA. We look forward to another exciting year of working in Asia in 2019.