(May 2011) We promised in our last edition to introduce Chinese companies holding their own against Western design standards. Here is the first: Yulong Stone, founded in 1991 and already strong in exports to North America, Australia and Japan.
The company traditionally entertains a stand in hall F of the Xiamen trade fair. Passers-by can’t help but notice the conspicuously stringent black and white decor. „We hope to draw visitors’ attention and lure them to our stand“, says Jason Su, head of sales and marketing in a noticeable broad American accent.
Distinguishing itself from competitors is the overall aim of the enterprise. This means looking toward higher class products at home and abroad, but also constantly rethinking existing concepts and collecting new ideas with the help of three full-time designers. Jiang Li, responsible for designing the mosaic shown in our photos, is one of them.
Yulong Stone operates from two sites in the province of Sichuan and entertains a workforce of 350 in production and 25 office employees, according to Jason Su.
Interesting also to note the concept behind the know-how in producing high value products. „We learned how to use water-jet-technology from a US-American client“, he says, „in return the client is granted special discounts on any purchases made.“ Of course the company also completes projects on commission realizing customers’ ideas.
