Chapter 64 Under the Spotlight
Jiang Suining's "Haifeng" clothing, with its novel designs and reliable quality, has gained a foothold in department stores and individual shops in many major cities across the country thanks to the efforts of its sales staff. There have even been some small-scale counterfeit products, which indirectly proves its popularity.
For a time, the "Haifeng" brand gained some recognition in the domestic clothing industry.
That day, Jiang Suining was in her office checking the production plan for the new season with her sister-in-law Liu Hong when a series of slightly noisy footsteps and conversations came from outside the door. Then, the office door was pushed open, and Xiao Zhao, the young woman in charge of reception, poked her head in, her face showing a mixture of nervousness and excitement.
"Manager Jiang, there are some comrades outside, and also, a foreigner! He says he's a businessman from some kind of republic, and wants to discuss business with you!"
"Foreigners?" Upon hearing this, Liu Hong paused, her hand holding the pen still, her face instantly filled with surprise and a hint of bewilderment. In this day and age, seeing foreigners on a small island was undoubtedly a rare occurrence.
Jiang Suining's heart also stirred, but compared to Liu Hong's surprise, she was more excited, and at the same time, she was also wary and curious.
With the arrival of the reform and opening-up policy, it was not uncommon for foreign businesses to seek cooperation, but it was somewhat unexpected that they would find her company, which was located in a remote corner of an island.
"Please invite them to the reception room. I'll be right there," she calmly instructed, while whispering to Liu Hong, "Sister-in-law, don't panic. Just stay calm."
She straightened her clothes, took a deep breath, and walked calmly towards the reception room.
Upon entering, one could see three or four people sitting inside. Besides Old Zhou, an officer from the management committee in charge of foreign affairs reception, there were two unfamiliar faces: one was a middle-aged cadre wearing a gray Zhongshan suit and glasses, with a serious expression, who was the translator and official sent by the city's Light Industry Bureau to accompany them, surnamed Li; but the most eye-catching one was the one sitting in the main seat.
He was a foreign man around fifty years old, with meticulously combed hair and wearing gold-rimmed glasses. He wore a well-tailored dark blue suit with crisp fabric and an elegant tie clip. He exuded the elegance and shrewdness of an old-fashioned European gentleman. Behind him stood a young Chinese man who appeared to be his assistant.
Old Zhou quickly stood up and introduced: "Comrade Jiang Suining, this is Mr. Jean Renoir, a clothing merchant from the Republic of France. Mr. Renoir, this is Comrade Jiang Suining, the person in charge of our Haifeng Trade."
Just as the translator, Li, was about to speak, Jiang Suining stepped forward with a polite and generous smile, extended her hand to Mr. Renoir, and said in clear and fluent English, "Welcome to our company, Mr. Renault. I'm Jiang Suining, the person in charge. It's a pleasure to meet you."
This fluent English speech not only stunned Liu Hong and Lao Zhou, but also made Comrade Li, who was about to perform his translation duties, pause for a moment, adjust his glasses, and look at Jiang Suining with some surprise.
A flicker of surprise and admiration crossed Mr. Renoir's eyes. He immediately stood up, leaned forward slightly, and gave Jiang Suining's hand in a very standard and gentlemanly manner. He replied in English, which had a heavy French accent but was still quite clear: "It is my pleasure, Madam Jiang. Your English is quite impressive!"
Li, the translator, had a subtle change in expression, as if he felt his role as translator was somewhat superfluous. He coughed lightly, trying to regain his presence: "Comrade Jiang Suining, Mr. Renoir came here because he saw the clothing samples produced by your company at the Canton Fair and was very interested in them. He made a special trip to find out more about them."
Jiang Suining understood the unspoken meaning behind Li's words. Out of politeness, she still let Li conduct the main dialogue, but she would communicate directly in English at key points to show respect and control.
Mr. Renoir picked up the conversation and explained his purpose: "Ms. Jiang, I saw several of your company's women's wear at the exhibition in Guangzhou, especially the fitted dress with a detachable collar and the high-waisted straight-leg trousers. Their silhouettes, details, and especially the fusion of Eastern elements with modern aesthetics surprised me greatly. They are completely different from the Chinese clothing I have seen before; they are full of vitality and unique charm."
His praise was not just polite talk, but came from a businessman's professional eye. He even took a sample of a Haifeng dress from his assistant and carefully pointed out several clever design details.
Jiang Suining understood, smiled and expressed her gratitude, then introduced her design concept, emphasizing the balance between practicality and aesthetics. Her speech was confident and clear, neither overly humble nor arrogant.
However, when Li, the translator, relayed the message, he would occasionally add his own understanding and guidance: "Comrade Jiang Suining, Mr. Renoir is an international friend. Our cooperation should be based on the principle of friendship and mutual assistance. We can make appropriate concessions on the price to show our sincerity in reform and opening up..." In his words, he seemed to have already made the decision for Jiang Suining, with a sense of top-down "arrangement".
Jiang Suining frowned slightly, but remained expressionless. She looked directly at Mr. Renoir and said clearly in English, "Mr. Renoir, we welcome international cooperation. Regarding specific cooperation models, whether it is order procurement or brand licensing, we can discuss them in detail based on the principles of fairness and mutual benefit. I believe that high-quality design and products have their own value."
Her words both responded to Renoir and subtly refuted Li's preconceived notion that "concessions must be made." Mr. Renoir's eyes showed even greater appreciation; he appreciated this direct and professional communication style.
As the discussions progressed, Mr. Renoir requested to visit the production line and design department, which Jiang Suining readily accepted. She then led everyone to the garment store and the workwear factory.
Mr. Renoir had no idea that those best-selling garments were actually made on such a rudimentary production line and in such a sample-making room. Looking at the well-managed production line, the skilled craftsmanship of the tailor and the workers, and the stacks of inspiring sketches that Jiang Suining had once designed, he became even more confident in the cooperation.
Back in the meeting room, Mr. Renoir made an important decision. He solemnly said to Jiang Suining, "Ms. Jiang, your talent and keen sense of fashion remind me of some outstanding European designers. Simply engaging in order-based collaborations may not be enough to fully showcase the value of these designs."
When Li relayed the news, his tone was filled with disbelief and excitement, but he immediately became worried as usual: "Comrade Jiang Suining, this is a great honor! However, the procedures for going abroad are complicated and the expenses are not small. Moreover, will our Chinese clothing be appropriate for such a place? Should we report to the city and province first?"
Jiang Suining took a deep breath, suppressing her surging emotions. She looked firmly at Mr. Renoir, and also reassured the slightly anxious translator Li and Liu Hong with her eyes. Then, she spoke clearly and forcefully in Chinese:
"Thank you, Mr. Renoir, for the invitation. This is the highest recognition of our 'Haifeng' design concept! I know the significance of the 'Fontainebleau International Fashion Week.' It is a window to showcase contemporary China to the world. It is not just a business opportunity, but also a responsibility for cultural exchange."
She paused, her tone becoming more composed and confident: "As for whether it's suitable? I believe that beautiful design knows no borders. Our clothing, blending Eastern subtlety with the pulse of the times, is fully qualified to stand on any international stage. We at 'Haifeng' must seize this opportunity! We'll figure out how to handle the procedures and fees!"
Her resounding words, filled with unwavering determination and foresight, drew frequent nods from Mr. Renoir and left Translator Li speechless, prompting him to re-evaluate the young female entrepreneur before him.
Ultimately, both parties reached a preliminary cooperation agreement. Mr. Renoir will assist with the relevant invitation procedures and prepay a portion of the order deposit to support Jiang Suining's preparations for Fashion Week.
Jiang Suining originally wanted to extend the hospitality of host to Mr. Renoir by treating him to a meal, but he had to rush to another city and didn't have extra time. Jiang Suining thought that there would be plenty of time in the future.
After seeing Renoir and his party off, Liu Hong was still in shock and excitement, holding Jiang Suining's hand: "Sui Sui, just now, I almost couldn't breathe! You're going abroad to participate in a competition?"
Jiang Suining stood by the window, gazing at the distant blue sea, her heart filled with boundless pride. The sea breeze brought not only merchants on their voyages, but also an opportunity to sail into the vast world.
“Sister-in-law, this isn’t a competition, this is a much bigger stage,” she said softly, her eyes sharp. “We want to show the world just how powerful the fashion trend from China’s islands can be!”
This unexpected invitation, like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, will surely stir up huge waves in her career and life.
***
The afternoon after Mr. Jean Renoir left, people from the city government came.
This time, the receptionist Xiao Zhao's expression wasn't nervous, but rather a flush of awe and excitement as she pushed open Jiang Suining's office door: "Manager! Leaders from the city... leaders from the city have arrived! So many cars!"
Jiang Suining's heart skipped a beat. She quickly straightened her clothes and hurried out to greet them. Outside the simple courtyard gate, two black Haizhou brand sedans and a Jeep were parked. Led by Vice Mayor Wang Zhijun, who was in charge of economic affairs, a group of seven or eight people, including the director of the Municipal Light Industry Bureau, the director of the Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Commission, and key leaders of the Management Committee, were standing in the courtyard, examining the office converted from a residential courtyard.
"Comrade Jiang Suining!" Vice Mayor Wang Zhijun, around fifty years old, slightly overweight, with a smiling face but sharp eyes, was the first to extend his hand, his voice booming, "We've come uninvited to congratulate you!"
"Mayor Wang, esteemed leaders, please come inside!" Jiang Suining suppressed her inner turmoil and quickly ushered everyone into the small conference room.
Liu Hong quickly led the people to serve tea and water, making the small conference room seem a bit crowded, but also filling it with an unusually warm atmosphere.
"Comrade Jiang Suining, Haifeng has really launched a satellite this time!" As soon as he sat down, Wang Zhijun got straight to the point, his tone full of admiration. "Businessmen from France, an invitation to an international fashion week! This is not only an honor for you personally, but also a substantial achievement of our city's reform and opening-up work! It proves that our island enterprises are fully capable of participating in international competition!"
The director of the Light Industry Bureau picked up the conversation. He had previously held reservations about Jiang Suining contracting the production line at the labor protection factory, but now he was all smiles: "Yes, Comrade Suining, you've taught us a lesson with your actions! When you first contracted the production line, some people were worried about the risks. Now it seems you truly have vision and courage! This not only revitalized a workshop, but also opened a door to the international market for our city's light industry!"
The director of the Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Commission took concrete action: "Comrade Jiang Suining, we're here today for two reasons: to offer our congratulations and to resolve your issues! Participating in the Fontainebleau International Fashion Week is of great significance, but the procedures are complicated, especially regarding foreign exchange quotas and approvals for going abroad. After careful consideration, the city has decided that our Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Commission will lead a special working coordination group, with myself as the group leader, to assist you with all the procedures! If you need any stamps or need to visit any departments, just contact us directly!"
These words carry immense weight! In this era of complex procedures, the establishment of a coordination group led by a municipal department is tantamount to paving a green channel for Jiang Suining's journey abroad.
The director of the management committee immediately stated, "Comrade Suining, whatever difficulties you encounter on the island—land use, labor, coordination—the management committee will do its utmost to ensure you have no worries and can focus on preparing for this fashion week to win glory for the country!"
The leaders spoke one after another, their attitudes clear and their support unprecedented. This was not just polite flattery, but a real policy inclination and resource support. They keenly realized that the success of "Haifeng" was not just the success of a single enterprise, but also a highly representative political achievement and an excellent model for promoting the local investment environment and the effectiveness of reforms.
Jiang Suining felt a surge of warmth in her heart. She stood up, bowed slightly to the leaders, and said with a dignified yet respectful attitude: "Thank you for your recognition and support! Haifeng's achievements are inseparable from the country's favorable policies and the care and assistance from leaders at all levels. This opportunity is hard-won, and we will definitely go all out, prepare meticulously, and strive to showcase the style of contemporary Chinese enterprises and the unique characteristics of our island on the international stage. We will never let down the expectations of the leaders and fellow villagers!"
Her response was appropriate and generous, expressing both gratitude and determination, which earned nods of approval from the leaders present.
Vice Mayor Wang Zhijun stood up with satisfaction, looked around the simple office, and exclaimed, "Although the conditions are tough, your drive and vision are top-notch! Comrade Jiang Suining, keep up the good work! The city will support you! If you need anything, you can report directly to me at any time!" This showed that he had been given extremely high authority and importance.
The leaders' inspection and on-site work were extremely efficient. They not only brought policies and commitments, but also inquired in detail about Haifeng's current production situation and the difficulties encountered, especially regarding whether support was needed in terms of production capacity and quality control for the upcoming foreign trade orders.
This unexpected visit from high-level officials was like a strong east wind, dispelling the last vestiges of gloom in Jiang Suining's heart caused by funding and procedural issues. She clearly felt that the tide of the times had propelled her to an unprecedented position, and that she was no longer fighting alone.
The dust left behind by the motorcade of municipal government leaders had not yet completely dissipated when another group of visitors nearly broke down the threshold of the courtyard.
Reporters from the city television station and the Nan'ao Island Daily arrived almost simultaneously, like bees drawn by the scent of flowers.
First to arrive was the interview team from the city television station. Leading the team was Su Qing, a female reporter known in the city for her intellectual and capable demeanor. She was wearing a very fashionable beige trench coat, followed by a driver carrying a heavy camera and an assistant.
The moment the dark camera lens was pointed at them, the employees in the yard immediately tensed up, and they even unconsciously slowed their pace.
"Hello, Comrade Jiang Suining! We are from the 'Era of Style' program of the Municipal TV Station." Su Qing extended her hand gracefully and spoke quickly, "Your deeds of standing at the forefront of the reform and opening up and leading your company to go global are very typical of our time! We hope to do a special report on you to record this historic moment."
Jiang Suining took a deep breath. She knew this was a golden opportunity to bring the "Haifeng" brand to the national public eye. She subconsciously looked down at her clothes. Fortunately, today she was wearing a modified white shirt with a stand-up collar and Chinese knot buttons, which she had designed herself, paired with dark straight-leg trousers. It looked both capable and had an oriental charm, cleverly incorporating the design elements she wanted to showcase.
Bright lights illuminated the room, and the camera flashed red. Su Qing handed the microphone to Jiang Suining: "Comrade Jiang Suining, what was your first reaction when you learned that you had received an invitation to the International Fashion Week?"
Thanks to the numerous interviews she had read with business elites and celebrities before transmigrating into the book, Jiang Suining remained completely calm in front of the camera. Her gaze was clear and firm, and with a slight smile, she spoke in a steady tone: "First of all, I feel very honored and excited. This is not only recognition of me personally, but also an affirmation of our entire 'Haifeng' team and of the contemporary design power of China. But after the excitement, I feel a heavy responsibility on my shoulders. This means that we will be showcasing the spirit of Chinese enterprises after the reform and opening up on a world-class stage, and we must go all out."
Her answer was humble and composed, attributing her personal honor to the collective and the country, which was full of positive energy.
Su Qing then asked, "What do you think is the most crucial factor that allows 'Haifeng' clothing to impress international customers?"
“It’s a combination of innovation and craftsmanship.” Jiang Suining answered without hesitation, picking up a sample dress and pointing to a detail on it. “We dare to incorporate new concepts and elements into our designs, but at the same time, we have never given up on the ultimate pursuit of craftsmanship and quality. Our master craftsmen put their heart and soul into every stitch. I believe that a truly good design is one that allows people to feel the sincerity and warmth it contains.”
Her words were sincere and infectious, moving Su Qing, who was conducting the interview, to tears. She then asked, "What are your expectations for the upcoming international fashion week?"
Jiang Suining looked at the camera, her eyes filled with confidence and anticipation. She spoke carefully, words brimming with positive energy: "I hope that through this platform, the world can see that the beauty of China is not only ancient and traditional, but also modern, diverse, and vibrant. I hope that 'Haifeng's' design can become a window connecting Eastern and Western aesthetics and cultures. At the same time, I also hope to take this opportunity to learn from advanced international concepts and technologies, learn from each other's strengths and make up for our weaknesses, so that our national brands can go further and more steadily. This is an opportunity given to us by the times, and we must live up to our youth and forge ahead!"
...
After the interview, Su Qing privately remarked to Jiang Suining, "Manager Jiang, you are the most composed and clear-headed entrepreneur I have ever interviewed. Your words will definitely generate a huge response after they are broadcast."
Su Qing said goodbye to Jiang Suining. Before the TV crew had even left, Old Chen, a senior reporter from the Nan'ao Island Daily, came over with his notebook and camera. Unlike the TV station's vivid and engaging presentation, the newspaper's interview focused more on depth and detail.
Old Chen's questions were sharp and specific, ranging from how Mr. Renoir discovered "Haifeng", to the specific situation of "Fontainebleau Fashion Week", to the future development plan of "Haifeng", and the challenges and opportunities faced by the leader of a private enterprise.
Jiang Suining handled the situation with equal ease. She elaborated on her design philosophy, emphasizing the importance of intellectual property protection, which was extremely forward-thinking at the time. She also frankly mentioned the difficulties she encountered in starting her business, such as funding and talent, and how she overcame them one by one with policy support.
She did not shy away from the problems, but instead used the difficulties as a backdrop to her struggles, which further highlighted how hard-won her achievements were.
"Manager Jiang, your insight and vision are truly admirable to me, a veteran journalist." Old Chen closed his notebook and said sincerely, "Your story is the most vivid footnote to the reform and opening up. Tomorrow's front page headlines will surely belong to you and 'Haifeng'."
After all the cameras and microphones were removed, the courtyard returned to its bustling activity. But everyone knew that something was different.
Jiang Suining stood in the courtyard, the setting sun casting a long shadow over her. She knew that the spotlight had been turned on, and she and "Haifeng" were about to stand on a broader stage, facing wider scrutiny and expectations.
She said to Liu Hong, who was equally excited beside her, and several key employees who had rushed over upon hearing the news: "Everyone has such high expectations of us; we have no way out."
Her gaze swept over everyone, her tone firm and resolute: "Next, we have two tough battles to fight. First, we must complete Mr. Renoir's order on time and with high quality, firing the first shot in our foreign trade! Second, we must concentrate all our efforts on creating a series of works that best represent the level of 'Haifeng' and best embody the characteristics of China, to conquer 'Fontainebleau'!"
"We can only win this battle, we cannot afford to lose!"
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