OneFirstStep is a boutique consulting agency, we help premium brands to start their journey in China.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” -  Lao Tzu -  

This Chinese proverb means that a person must begin his or her journey to reach their goal or destination. It is a motivational proverb that expresses deep insight about determination and avoiding procrastination.

In other words, this expression tells that the great things commence with simple beginnings.

As in business, “One First Step” is needed to begin a successful journey. 

What we do?

“We help brands to start their journey in China”

There are several viable options for starting your business in China, ranging from modest to substantial investments, contingent upon your objectives and aspirations.

At our consultancy, we specialize in tailoring the optimal strategy that seamlessly aligns with your brand, addressing your unique needs and objectives.

Our goal is to assist you in making an informed choice that resonates with your vision and priorities.

Market Entry - Distribution Strategy - Marketing Plan & Representation - Network with Distributors & Trade Partners - Executive Market Visit

  • What prompts your interest in expanding to China?

    Is it to capture a larger market share and drive sales and profits in the world's second-largest economy?

    Or, are you aiming to boost brand awareness, leveraging tourism flows within your primary regional market?

  • Gaining a clear understanding of your brand's SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis empowers you to be pragmatic and adaptable. This insight can lead to recalibrated goals, whether seizing larger opportunities or aligning expectations with a feasible investment approach.

  • Depending on your brand's potential, strategic goals, and aspirations, various business models are available.

    For a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) model, establishing a local legal entity, building a team, and collaborating with trade partners to manage both online and offline stores is necessary. We provide guidance not only on investment considerations but also in selecting the appropriate trade partners.

    On the other hand, a distributor model eliminates the need for a legal entity but requires finding suitable partners. We excel in partner selection and can even act as your representative in China, ensuring accurate strategy implementation.

    Negotiating terms with trade partners or distributors is also within our scope of expertise. Your success is our priority, and we are here to guide you at every step.

  • This aspect is of utmost importance, as each distribution channel comes with its distinct advantages and challenges. The choice hinges on your objectives, financial capacity, and ROI projections. Given China's digital prominence, while digital presence is pivotal, certain product categories necessitate a physical store presence. China's ecosystem is intricate, with channels interconnecting seamlessly - from "in-store visits leading to online purchases," to "online browsing culminating in offline buys," and the intricacies of "online purchases with in-store pickups.

  • A marketing activation program becomes imperative unless your brand already holds robust awareness and allure in China.

    We excel in locating suitable agencies to oversee your social media accounts, spearhead campaigns with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) or Key Opinion Consumers (KOCs), and engage brand ambassadors.

    Alternatively, a focused investment in direct response e-commerce on Tmall is an option.

    Certain brands may find value in pop-up offline store events.

    This approach, naturally, adapts to your objectives and investment capacity.

We guide you in determining the optimal strategy for your brands.

We facilitate the implementation of your strategy in alignment with your objectives and capacities, ensuring a realistic timeline.

One first step” is crucial, getting started is the most important step of your journey”

Who we serve?

We specialize in aiding Western premium brands seeking entry into China, the world's second-largest economy.

We cater to brands in need of expert guidance for their inaugural steps into the Chinese market.

Our proficiency extends across Luxury goods, Watches & Jewellery, Fashion, License brands, Cosmetics, and premium FMCG.

We act as your representative, liaising with local Chinese agencies, e-commerce trade partners, and distributors.