Knock knocking on heaven's door

Canaan Hardware Sdn Bhd

By shunning the norm, Canaan Hardware Sdn Bhd has created a niche market, catering to customers with an eye for home accessories "different" from those offered by competitors.

The company began operating in 1996, Managing Director Cynthia Bong says, because it saw a need in the market due to strong demand for home accessories from homeowners and contractors.

"The need for a one-stop ironmongery store was increasing so we started selling a whole range of door handles and furniture accessories which include door closers, knockers and stoppers, kitchen baskets, bathroom accessories, drawer tracks and signages," Bong tells The Brunei Times.

Canaan Hardware currently employs six staff at its showroom at Jln Tutong.

Bong says that when the company first started, the initial challenge was to introduce the firm and products to the market. "Currently, the challenge is that with the current trend, contractors and clients prefer to source directly from overseas, especially China, which have a cheap range goods. Our products are mainly European as we want to feature a different range and have products of better quality. In addition to that, we also have a cheaper range," she adds.

Bong says the number of hardware stores in the country has been on the rise, which means competition is tougher, price-wise.

"Competition is quite strong in Brunei and although we have a different line of products, we still have to think about pricing. It's definitely a challenge because normally consumers want affordable goods. Imitation goods are on the rise as well because in China, you can make anything, all you need to do is show them what you want," says Bong.

However, goods may be of lower grade, she says, adding that there are many grades of imitations and you'll get what you pay for.

Bong also notes about how business was much better in the late 90's as compared to now because construction was stronger.

Still, Canaan is upbeat about the future, she says.

Bong attributes the company success to Canaan's ability to provide professional advice and assistance to customers and consultants.

"For example, preparing schedules on projects is important and of course promptness in delivery and meeting deadlines is critical," Bong says.

As for future plans, Canaan Hardware is looking to source additional product lines to complement existing products so that customers would have a greater variety of choice when they visit its showroom.

"With that, we are also taking an additional shop house next door to our current showroom so premises will be enlarged. In line with this, we are having a special sale from September onwards to clear out some of our old goods to make way for new ones which will be featured in our new space," she says.

The Brunei Times