Whether it be a start-up, or a business that is gaining momentum, it can be all too easy for many small and medium-sized companies to deviate from sound management by expanding too ambitiously and too quickly, or opting for cheaper and quicker alternatives.
For Prudence Mak, founding owner of the accessories brand Chocolate Rain, sensible control of her products' quality has always been her top business priority. Established in 2000, Chocolate Rain is the fruit of the young designer's belief that accessories are not merely confined to glittering baubles or very cold silvers.
'I wanted to create something with a soul, with personal style, and by using various raw materials that may often be neglected by others,' Ms Mak said.
Dedicated to this belief, Chocolate Rain has grown to be a key player in the accessories market, with the company's products showcased at the Hong Kong Design Gallery, prestigious shopping centres in busy districts, and its flagship store in Sogo.
Success, however, has not come easy. Ms Mak said that the creation of Chocolate Rain led to a fall out with her family. Then her business partner abandoned the company for the stability of a nine-to-five job on the day it was established. She did not anticipate the same level of struggle when selling her own designs, which hurt financially. Nevertheless, Ms Mak resisted the urge for cheaper alternatives during this difficult time.
'In a small niche accessories market, the key to success is to constantly be able to create high quality products from superior designs, exceptional materials, and superb craftsmanship,' Ms Mak said.