Having the two fairs together also made it easy for buyers, said Anne Chick, senior exhibitions manager of the Trade Development Council (TDC), organiser of the fairs.

'When you go to a hardware store overseas, you won't just see bolts and screws but many home improvement and lighting products.'

The concurrent fairs attract familiar faces and newcomers, most of whom share a common goal: to make connections.

'We met over 1,000 potential clients in the previous year and many of them have cut deals with us,' said Thomas Mak Hung-wai, marketing director of John Manufacturing, a returning exhibitor at the Lighting Fair.

Vivian Li, of Hing Fat Electrical Lighting, which has taken part in the Lighting Fair for several years, said the fairs would help them further explore the markets in Europe and United States.

'We hope we will get to meet new customers from these markets during the fair,' she said.

Iris Law, sales and marketing manager of the Wing Shing Manufacturing, is also hoping to meet new clients over the next four days. It is the first time the company has taken part in the event.

'For almost 40 years we kept a low profile,' she said. 'We feel it is time for a new direction. Our strengths are in design and product quality, and the best way for potential clients to see that is by looking at our products.'

To achieve that goal the company has set up a 72-square-metre booth showcasing its spotlights, decorative lighting products and track systems. One of the products featured is called Alien, a spotlight of stylish, futuristic design.

'It is one of our original designs as well as a top-selling product,' Ms Law said. 'Our designer was inspired by the film Alien.'

The booth is thoughtfully designed in black and white, giving a sleek and modern impression. Always attuned to the needs of businesses and industries, the TDC has been adding new sections to the event every year to help facilitate business.

This year almost 30 exhibitors will showcase their products in the new Outdoor Lighting zone in the Lighting Fair.

'We have seen an increase in the number of buyers looking for this kind of product, and setting up a new zone makes it easy for them to find what they want,' Ms Chick said.

New sections have been added to the Hardware and Home Improvement Fair - Sanitary World and Outdoor & Gardening World.

The Decor Zone, inaugurated last year, will again showcase premium interior products and cater to companies that are brand-building.

'Timing of the fairs is good because October is a golden period for product sourcing. The Canton Fair is also held at the same time, so buyers can arrange just one trip,' Ms Chick said.

The fair is expected to attract buyers who want to seize the opportunities offered by the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (Cepa), which allows free trade between Hong Kong and the mainland.

Seminars will also be held to allow traders to share their knowledge and experience.