Access our training - $200K and 300 Leads in 15 Days for Woodpreneurs here: https://go.buildergrowth.io/optin-wms
“ It was basically just sitting in front of computers doing some concepts for Chinese companies, which usually we're going just to the bean, and you just do it do it. “
-Filip Winiewicz
Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Filip Winiewicz from Romero Hardwood HK Ltd...
Access our training - $200K and 300 Leads in 15 Days for Woodpreneurs here: https://go.buildergrowth.io/optin-wms
“ It was basically just sitting in front of computers doing some concepts for Chinese companies, which usually we're going just to the bean, and you just do it do it. “
-Filip Winiewicz
Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Filip Winiewicz from Romero Hardwood HK Ltd.
Living in various countries, including islands, Beijing, and Malaysia, Filip eventually landed in Hong Kong, where he got married to his Korean wife. Dissatisfied with the architectural work in Hong Kong, which he found lacking in the creative and hands-on aspects, Filip sought an alternative. Intrigued by woodworking as a smaller scale of architecture, he saw it as an opportunity to have more control over his ideas and faster results. Without any formal training, he relied on YouTube to acquire woodworking skills.
Starting a woodworking venture in Hong Kong presented challenges, considering the exorbitant rent and tough market competition from China, the world's largest furniture manufacturing country, located just across the border.
Listen now and get the whole story!
“ My knowledge was like, mainly YouTube. And, and probably Hong Kong is the worst place to start woodworking but yeah, and it's hard to Okay, now we can call it business, but I just decided to do something I want to do.”
- Filip Winiewicz
Evolution of Projects:
Starting with live-edge slab tables, Filip's business evolved from competing with China on slab tables to specializing in custom, high-end furniture for residential projects. He emphasizes the challenging nature of these projects, often involving intricate details and solid wood. Clients opt for Filip's craftsmanship, trusting his expertise over mass-produced alternatives from China.
Steve: "Your work is truly remarkable, Filip. How did you navigate the initial stages of your business and establish your presence in such a competitive market?"
Building Presence and Overcoming Challenges:
Filip shares his early strategy of leveraging Instagram for marketing. Recognizing the rarity and appeal of wood products in Hong Kong, he strategically built a significant Instagram following by targeting potential customers interested in unique, high-quality furniture. This, coupled with a smart pricing approach, allowed him to gain a foothold in the market.
Filip also emphasizes the challenges he faces, particularly in sourcing wood from China, where quality control is limited. The discrepancies in wood quality and the constraints of Hong Kong's small workshop spaces pose ongoing challenges.
Steve: "It's fascinating to hear about your journey, Filip. As you've grown, what are the key tools and investments that have played a crucial role in your woodworking business?"
Key Tools and Investments:
While Filip's workshop may seem basic compared to American standards, he highlights essential tools like the Felder combination jointer and planer thicknesser as his significant investments. Acquiring a secondhand CNC machine at a bargain further expanded the business's capabilities, allowing for more intricate projects.
Want to get in touch with Jesus Romero?
Contact him through:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardwood_hk/
