SCED visits local design firms (with photos)

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, visited two Hong Kong design firms today (June 18) and had fruitful exchanges with local designers on promoting the wider use of design in industrial and business processes.

Mr So first stopped at a brand consultancy company at the InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong. The company adopts a holistic approach to brand design, which covers brand development, corporate identity, interior design and visual merchandising. He was given an introduction on the company's development, experience and growth and briefed on some of its successful branding campaigns, as well as on the crucial role of good design in building a winning brand.

Mr So then visited a design firm which focuses on the design of household products and gifts. He saw a display of products designed by the firm and was impressed by its commitment to creating quality products that are original and stylish in design but also functional.

He also held a discussion with the company's top executive, a renowned product designer who has won a number of local and international design awards, on promoting Hong Kong's design works.

"Hong Kong has long been a leading design centre in the Asia-Pacific region, bringing together the brightest business and creative minds. We will continue to promote understanding and application of design in industries which help improve products and services and enhance competitiveness," Mr So said.

The Government has earmarked significant resources to promote the growth of creative industries. The Finance Committee of the Legislative Council has recently approved an increase in the commitment for the CreateSmart Initiative (CSI) from $300 million to $600 million. The CSI funds projects which help nurture talent, facilitate start-ups, promote Hong Kong's design excellence and foster a creative atmosphere within the community.

In addition, close to $150 million has been pledged to support the Hong Kong Design Centre for the period from 2012 to 2015 for its operation, the administration of the Design Incubation Programme and staging of signature events to promote design.

"Through the collaboration of the Government, professional bodies and industries, we hope to shape a 'Hong Kong Design' brand defined by imagination, excellence, inventiveness and style," Mr So said.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013