Intertek Supports Southeast Asia as the New Hotspot for Hardlines Sourcing

April 27, 2010

Jakarta, Indonesia -- In recent years, China has been well-highlighted as a thriving core for sourcing and manufacturing in Asia. However, as competition rises for global hardlines brands, the benefits of exploring rising markets in Southeast Asia are steadily intriguing a variety of houseware and furnishings providers. Although there are evident differences among Southeast Asian nations, common themes of significant infrastructure development, human resources, WTO support and steady economic growth make these markets appealing hubs for brands to bolster abilities to enhance their value chain. Intertek, a leading global provider of quality and safety solutions for a wide range of industries, has announced their focus on supporting sourcing expansion in Southeast Asia through new and updated lab locations in India, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.

“While China is still very much a prime hub for investment in many sectors, we see that global hardlines manufacturers are exploring alternate markets to stay competitive,” says Rob Burton, Global Business Leader for Hardlines, Intertek. “Their need to cut costs and source materials from smaller, less crowded markets makes Southeast Asian regions an appealing next step.”

Enhanced testing scopes available at Intertek’s Southeast Asian labs include metals analysis, packaging testing services, random vibration packaging testing, ceramics and handicraft testing, and a wide range of additional furniture and packaging services. Situated near prominent manufacturing sites, Intertek lab locations in Semarang, Delhi, Ho Chi Min City, Bangkok, and Manila are positioned to help clients save on time and transportation costs through the convenience and understanding of local technical experts, coupled with the global knowledge of Intertek’s 1,000+ lab locations worldwide.

“Many hardlines companies are recognizing that products do not necessarily need to be tested where the vendor is located. Thus, our expanded capabilities in Southeast Asia provide options for brands to further their growth with ease and confidence -- both in Asia and worldwide,” Burton adds.

Visit www.intertek.com/hardlines for further information about Intertek’s hardlines capabilities across the globe.

Contact:
Intertek
Rob Burton, Global Business Leader, Hardlines
Phone: +852 2173-8600
Email: Rob.burton@intertek.com