JAKARTA, Indonesia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In recent years, China has been well-highlighted as a thriving core for sourcing and manufacturing in Asia. However, as competition rises for global hardlines brands, the benefits of exploring rising markets in Southeast Asia are steadily intriguing a variety of houseware and furnishings providers. Although there are evident differences among Southeast Asian nations, common themes of significant infrastructure development, human resources, WTO support and steady economic growth make these markets appealing hubs for brands to bolster abilities to enhance their value chain. Intertek, a leading global provider of quality and safety solutions for a wide range of industries, has announced their focus on supporting sourcing expansion in Southeast Asia through new and updated lab locations in India, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.

“While China is still very much a prime hub for investment in many sectors, we see that global hardlines manufacturers are exploring alternate markets to stay competitive,” says Rob Burton, Global Business Leader for Hardlines, Intertek. “Their need to cut costs and source materials from smaller, less crowded markets makes Southeast Asian regions an appealing next step.”

Enhanced testing scopes available at Intertek’s Southeast Asian labs include metals analysis, packaging testing services, random vibration packaging testing, ceramics and handicraft testing, and a wide range of additional furniture and packaging services. Situated near prominent manufacturing sites, Intertek lab locations in Semarang, Delhi, Ho Chi Min City, Bangkok, and Manila are positioned to help clients save on time and transportation costs through the convenience and understanding of local technical experts, coupled with the global knowledge of Intertek’s 1,000+ lab locations worldwide.

“Many hardlines companies are recognizing that products do not necessarily need to be tested where the vendor is located. Thus, our expanded capabilities in Southeast Asia provide options for brands to further their growth with ease and confidence -- both in Asia and worldwide,” Burton adds.

Visit www.intertek.com/hardlines for further information about Intertek’s hardlines capabilities across the globe.

About Intertek

Intertek (ITRK.L) is a leading provider of quality and safety solutions serving a wide range of industries around the world. From auditing and inspection, to testing, quality assurance and certification, Intertek people are dedicated to adding value to customers' products and processes, supporting their success in the global marketplace. Intertek has the expertise, resources and global reach to support its customers through its network of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 25,000 people in more than 100 countries around the world.