Empty Refillable Marker : Case Studies 01
Refillable Empty Markers for Leather Goods – Achieve Precise and Thorough Aftercare
A Company specializes in selling fashion and lifestyle products, including apparel and accessories, produced in various Asian countries. Their commitment to craftsmanship, local materials, and cultural heritage has garnered significant attention. A few years ago, they adopted the Kuretake Empty Markers for Industrial use (Valve Type) for their aftercare services on leather goods. We spoke with Ms. M, who was involved in the selection process, to learn more about how they use the Kuretake Empty Markers, the challenges they faced before adoption, and the reasons behind their choice.
Company A specializing in fashion and lifestyle products, including apparel and accessories made in various Asian countries, has gained significant attention for its dedication to craftsmanship, local materials, and cultural heritage.
A few years ago, they adopted the Kuretake Empty Marker (Valve Type) for Industrial Use for their leather goods aftercare services. We spoke with Ms. M, who was involved in the selection process, to learn more about how they use the pen applicators, the challenges they faced before adopting them, and the reasons behind their choice.
Crafting with a Focus on Materials and Techniques from Developing Countries
ーCould you tell us about your company’s mission and product offerings?
Our company manufactures bags, leather goods and apparel in our factories in Asia and sells them across Japan and internationally. Since our founding, we have focused on the potential of developing countries, integrating locally sourced materials, traditional craftsmanship, and cultural influences into our products. We even develop fabrics such as leather and jute from scratch, with our founder personally designing each item.
Currently, we operate factories in six countries, including Bangladesh, and sell our products in over 50 stores across Japan and internationally.
Using Kuretake Empty Markers for Leather Color Restoration
ーHow do you use the Empty Markers in your operations?
Since our inception, we have prioritized aftercare services to ensure customers can enjoy our products for as long as possible. As part of this, we offer a free color restoration service for leather goods, addressing scuff marks and faded areas. We use the Kuretake Empty Markers to apply the necessary dyes and pigments.
Our leather goods come in a variety of colors, from classic black and brown to pastel shades and gradient designs. Because of this, we need around 30 different paint and ink colors for our restoration services, meaning each store keeps approximately 30 markers on hand.
The filling process is not conducted in Japan. Instead, we ship empty markers to our Bangladesh factory, where they are filled with paint and ink before being distributed to stores in Japan.
To achieve seamless color restoration, it is essential to use the same paint and ink applied during production. Although this process requires extra time and effort, we have maintained this approach since our founding.
ーHow many empty markers do you use annually?
For frequently sold colors like black, brown, and gray, each store typically uses two to three markers per year. Less common colors require only about one per year.
Additionally, since our dyes and pigments do not contain preservatives, they are not suitable for long-term storage. We often replace them when they start to degrade.
ーWhat tools did you use before adopting our product?
Previously, we used empty markers from another manufacturer. We had worked with them for over ten years, but as our business expanded, they could no longer meet our required production volume. This prompted us to search for a new supplier.
Ease of Use: The Key Factor in Choosing Empty Markers
ーWhat led you to choose our product among the various options available?
Our initial connection to Kuretake came through our Kyoto store staff. During a casual conversation, someone mentioned that Kuretake offers empty markers. When we checked the website, we saw a wide variety of options and decided to reach out.
At first, we tried the ink reservoir type markers, but they did not work well with our paints, resulting in inconsistent color application. We consulted Kuretake about our concerns, and they suggested the valve-type markers. After testing them, we found they performed exceptionally well and decided to switch.
ーDid you consider products from other manufacturers?
We met with several manufacturers, but most could not accommodate our required order quantities. Since our dyes and pigments are not suitable for long-term storage, we needed a supplier that could handle small-batch orders.
Unlike other companies, Kuretake was able to provide flexible production, which was a crucial factor in our decision. Their adaptability was incredibly valuable to us.
Improved Usability and Reduced Workload for Staff
ーWhat impact did the Kuretake empty markers have on store operations?
We are very satisfied with their usability, as they allow for precise and even application of paints and inks. Our aftercare service team has not reported any issues regarding the containers.
The previous markers we used also had a valve system, but they sometimes dispensed too much paint when the tip was pressed. In contrast, Kuretake’s markers provide consistent and stable quality, reducing our staff’s workload.
During peak seasons, such as Christmas, the number of color restoration requests increases significantly. However, the markers function smoothly even during busy periods, ensuring efficient aftercare services.
Expanding Production and Strengthening Global Presence
ーWhat are your future plans?
Currently, we operate production facilities in six countries, but to achieve our mission of showcasing the potential of developing nations to the world, we aim to expand our manufacturing base. We plan to visit more countries to discover new materials, cultures, and craftsmanship.
Additionally, while we currently sell products in two Asian countries, we are working towards growing into a truly global brand by expanding into Europe and the United States. Market research is already underway.
ーThank you for sharing your insights. It’s great to see how our product has helped streamline your aftercare services!
For more information on Kuretake Empty Markers for Industrial Use, please visit the following link: