GLP Sets up Asian Subsidiary

Michael Munz with GLP ImpressionsGerman lighting giant, GLP has set up a new base in Hong Kong with the formation of GLP German Light Products Asia Ltd.

Under the supervision of general manager Michael Münz, it will provide a third global axis for the company, following its success in Europe, and subsequent expansion into the US.

“As the brand was becoming more internationally recognised, this development was an obvious consequence,” said Mr. Münz. “Hong Kong is the perfect hub to reach out to the Asian markets.”

Situated on Hong Kong Island, next to the Central Business District, the main focus will be on pan-Asian sales and support — not only for the growing roster of GLP LED moving head and control products but also G-LEC visual technology.

Explaining the rationale, Münz continued, “Faced with growing sales spread throughout Asia, it became increasingly important to keep a closer eye on this market. It is very important for our distributors to have a contact in the same time zone, and equally it is important for us to get a more direct line of communication as to their requirements.”

While GLP will sell directly in some territories and set up representation in others, they promise existing distributors a new level of support and much closer communication with GLP.

“Of course we want to achieve growing sales in this region, but one of the first priorities will be to establish the GLP and G-LEC brand names here, where it is less well-known than in Europe and the US. We know that being close to customers, lighting designers and project offices is a must for us,”stated GLP director, Kasper Gissel.

GLP's new operation, which will cover territories east of India, and as far down as Australasia, is in good hands. Michael Münz (30) has been working in lighting since almost before his academic graduation in Business Administration.

His desire to work in the lighting industry led him to GLP — with a six month internship in China in 2002 (a process repeated in 2004). Michael joined the company full time in 2006, taking up the role of manufacturing manager in China. “This latest challenge is one that I am relishing,” he said. “It is a great opportunity to promote GLP's brand values in emerging markets.”