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Uniquely HK
Brand Story
Chow Sang Sang: 80 Golden Years
The publicly listed Chow Sang Sang with its 7,000-strong workforce has gone a long way from its beginnings as a family-run business in Guangzhou.
“Sustained vitality, ever rejuvenated” – this is what Chow Sang Sang loosely translates to; it also happens to be the group’s slogan of choice to celebrate its 80th anniversary this year.
In 1934, Chow Sang Sang was founded in Guangzhou by Chow Fong Pu, a gold merchant. Four years later, Guangzhou was occupied by the Japanese, pushing Mr Chow and his brothers to flee the mainland along with many other refugees.
Taking advantage of Hong Kong’s rapid growth in the decades that followed – as well as the city’s role as a jewellery manufacturing centre – Chow Sang Sang expanded rapidly and gained a reputation as a top goldsmith. In 1973, it became the first jeweller to list on the stock exchange. The company re-entered the China market in 1993 after the policy towards retail operation ownership was liberalised, and engineered its next phase of growth and renewal, bringing the company full circle.
Today, as one of the largest jewellery retailers in the world, Chow Sang Sang operates more than 360 stores ringing up sales over HK$20 billion annually. Gold remains Chow Sang Sang’s primary revenue driver, accounting for well over 60% of its turnover. And not surprisingly, mainland Chinese continue to be its largest customer segment, accounting for more than 70% of sales in the greater China region.
Helmed by the founder’s grandson Vincent Chow, Chow Sang Sang’s current Chairman, the company has relied on this winning formula: a selective store operation strategy, a portfolio balancing distinguished international brands and quality house brands, and an integrated and consistent development approach. The company adapts a self-owned store model to ensure consistent and superior service and better quality control. Its online e-shop helps its ability to service its customers in over 40 countries.
Chow Sang Sang has always been known for its quality in-house product development targeting Chinese consumer clientele. This includes gold and gem products such as its flagship Infini Love Diamonds collection and its Om Mani Padme Hum gold collection as well as its innovative gift products for all occasions.
The company has also made great strides in enhancing its image by signing up a number of international jewellery brands and watches such as Gucci and Rolex.
Equally, Chow Sang Sang’s brand development aims to target the mid- to high-end customer segments of the greater China market. Together with its strategic retail presence and creative product selections, the company hopes to continue its steady growth in the world’s largest jewellery market. Eighty years may seem like a lifetime now, but Chow Sang Sang has only just begun.
