China success for Hackney cycling accessories designer

Cycling fashion designer Goodordering is set to double Chinese exports through China’s version of Whatsapp.

The Hackney based independent company has secured an opportunity to sell its products through China’s messaging and social media app WeChat, which has over 1 billion users.

Goodordering specialises in the design of functional retro style cycling accessories and has designed pieces for brands like Puma, Debenhams and Virgin Atlantic,

Launched in 2012, the company has already seen significant international expansion since it began, exporting to countries such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, France, Spain and Belgium.

Jacqui Ma, designer and founder at Goodordering, said: “Cycling has kicked off in the UK over the last decade, and this trend for both the recreational sport and associated fashion is catching across the world, which is great news for us.

“The Chinese market operates slightly differently from the UK’s, in the sense that online apps are a more effective way of reaching consumers than through traditional retailers, particularly for businesses operating in fashion.”

In a bid to expand its market in China, the company worked with the Department for International Trade (DIT) and was introduced to the commercial opportunities that the Chinese social app can offer.

Parveen Thornhill, head of London DIT, said: “Goodordering is a prime example of a local business that’s making the most of an overseas trend to build up its business.

“Cycling is a rapidly growing market in China. The country hosted its first Tour de France-class race in Beijing last year, which is expected to contribute to a burgeoning cycling culture, including fashion. It’s also one of the biggest importers of our bikes, with exports of British-made bikes to China rising by 109% in 2018.”