WM MORRISON'S HK OFFICE PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES FOR M'SIAN PRODUCERS

KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 (Bernama) -- The opening of Wm Morrison's non-food sourcing office in Hong Kong last month provides opportunities for Malaysian producers of wood products to gain retail access to the British supermarket chain's 455 stores in the United Kingdom.

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) said this in a statement Tuesday.

It said Wm Morrison's Hong Kong office would directly source home and leisure products, and would eventually serve as the company's regional headquarters.

"For Malaysian producers of wood and wood products, there are opportunities to supply small and durable furniture, especially outdoor furniture, to Wm Morrison.

"There is also an opportunity to supply alternative raw materials such as rattan and wicker," it said.

MATRADE also encouraged manufacturers of green household products such as biodegradable tableware, organic clothing and packaging materials to explore retail opportunities with Wm Morrison.

Wm Morrison is the UK's fourth largest supermarket chain.

Last year, Malaysia exported RM521.9 million worth of furniture, especially wood furniture, to the UK.
-- BERNAMA