Hong Kong EnterpriseArticle from HK Enterprise Aug 2008 EditionSUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT / MAGNIFYING GLASSESStarting out with a low key line that later develops into a full blown business asset can prove very rewarding, as Concavex Plastic Works Ltd found with its range of magnifying glasses. From humble beginnings with rather mundane products, we have become a specialised manufacturer of magnifying lenses, declares General manager Peter Huang. "Early models were a bit like the classic type seen in Sherlock Holmes movies, whereas today we offer them in different shapes, with and without lights, and in bookmark, wallet or desktop form."Concavex also continues to use traditional materials such as acrylic for the lens. "We have never used glass because acrylic is lighter and easier to work with," explains Mr Huang. "However, for the bodies we use ABS or PVC depending on the design.In keeping with trends, magnifying glasses come in a range of designs. For example, there are sporty models in the shape of tennis rackets, while a desktop version includes an organiser for small items. A letter opener has a lens in the handle. Apart from shape, there is not a lot one can do with a magnifier and so we introduced models with bifocal features featuring a window with 2-4 times more power than the main lens, says Mr Huang. "We also have a model that acts as a reading light, with the magnifier mounted on the swivelling base that serves as a stand. These models use LED lamps." The market is very broad, from youngsters to senior citizens. "Older people generally have poor eyesight and that is a natural niche for us," says Mr Huang. "Students form another large group, while most households will have a magnifying glass in a draw somewhere." Very thin types also make excellent gift items, especially given the Concavex lens quality. "We take pride in crystal- clear viewing at high magnification," says Mr Huang. "We invest in R&D, stay abreast of new technology, and implement strict QC procedures on in-house or sourced parts." Production is made less complicated as lenses do not need polishing. "Each lens is moulded to perfection," Mr Huang claims. "They are ready to use immediately."Concavex differentiates itself in the market by bringing innovation into play. "For example, we do a model with a powerful 10X magnification," Mr Huang notes. "Our pocket magnifiers come in many different forms, such as lenses that retract into the frame body for protection, or incorporating miniature digital clock, and map readers are always popular."The company accepts OEM orders, producing a variety of magnifying glasses complete with corporate logos. "These go to all parts of the world, with the US the biggest market, followed by Europe - Germany in particular and Japan," Mr Huang says. "The gifts and premiums sector makes a very good market, while our products also sell very well at the retail level of course," he continues. "Corporate gifts take up a good percentage of sales." About 70% of all exports are purchased under the general sales category, while the balance is split between the photographic industry, spectacle makers, the pharmaceuticals industry and the dental sector.Concavex has in-house designers and hires freelancers as and when required. "Our technical staff and engineers work closely with the designers because we want to change the conception that a magnifying glass is solely for use by senior citizens," says Mr Huang."We are definitely not selling to the low-end, and we take pride in our designs and lens quality. We are not the cheapest, but our parts are of good quality and we are not that expensive," Mr Huang insists."We will take care of future demand by supplying innovative magnifying glasses that are light, convenient and easier to use, attractive looking and incorporating improved lighting features to compliment superior lenses."WRITTEN BY TONY HENDERSON