How about a Spyderco plant in Penang?

[golok]

I was thinking since Spyderco has some of its blades made in Seki, Japan, it might not be impertinent to ask if Spyderco has thought of opening up another plant a bit further East, like Penang, Malaysia.



The logistics are pretty good, I think. I know this question probably involve too many variables and numerous economic considerations.



There are the standard factors like English-speaking workforce (no problem here), labour costs, local incentives and conducive working conditions.



The bottom line is of course whether Spyderco will gain from a shift in operations or setting up a plant so far away from Golden, Colorado.



Considering what Penang has to offer, I would say, it is worth a thought or two.

No, I am not getting a commission from anybody. I am saying this for purely selfish reasons.



It so happens I used to be from that island and I thought since we don't have any establishment that specialises in making world-class knives, it's about time, we invite one over.



Afterall, we have some of the best mother-of-pearl material in Penang. Think what it would like like on Spyderco knives. Look what it did for the Military (recent edition).



Food for thought for those calling the shots at Golden, Colorado.

[sal]

Hi Golok. You seem to have a knack for asking heavy questions.

We began making knives in Seki because there were already well established highly skilled folding knife factories there. Al Mar introduced me to our makers. Seki was the draw for swordmakers from about 800 AD until now. Ovedr the past 1200 years they have refined knifemaking to a very high degree of effectiveness. They have an intricate system of subcontractors and each is skilled in particular crafts (grinding, polishing, drilling, etc). That is why they are able to get such a high level of quality craftsmanship.

We later built our factory in Golden and are still gaining experience in building knives. We are more hi tech than Seki. Knives are very difficult to build well. Much more so than would appear.

At Spyderco, the skill of the maker is more important than location. If we find makers that appear to be skilled and dedicated enough to meet our very strict standards, we try them. Not too many around. If there is a knife factory in Malaysia now, it would be much easier for us to "grow them up" then to start fresh. Equipment is very expensive as is training. It all depends on the "guy" (or girl) running the plant. It is my belief that one cannot achieve excellence without passion. Skill is good, equipment is also good, but passion is the spice in the spirit that makes excellence possible.

Malaysia is certainly not out of the question, it wold depend on what is already there to build on. It would give Gail & I a great reason to visit Malaysia.

sal

[Tom Percy]

Sal, I'm not one to quote people, but every now and then some words of wisdom stand out, and your "passion is the spice in the spirit that makes excellence possible" is one of those.
As a quality conscience individual, I think that sums it all up.

[sam the man..]

Any time Poppa Spyder!! <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> We'd be glad to host your visit to Malaysia and show around!! <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> I'm taking up lessons on customising chopsticks! *hee-hee!*

Sam

have spydies will travel

[sal]

Thank you Tom.

sal

[golok]

I didn't take a look at this forum until just now. Thanks, Sal, for another insightful answer.

I always enjoy listening to you. You are one of the few who go straight to the point and promptly hit the nail on the head.

However, come on over to Malaysia, Penang if necessary, to enjoy the weather, food, and hospitality.

No need to talk shop. You will never know what you will find in Malaysia.

[sam the man..]

Yeah, Malaysians are very hospitable folks -- especially golok! <img src="wink.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

Sam

have spydies will travel