Locking Innovation at SINOX

For many, a lock serves merely as a means to safeguard valuable possessions. Yet, for everyone at SINOX, a lock is more than just a security device; it possesses a spiritual quality, capable of emitting a soothing melody that purifies the soul.

The Genesis of Exploration

A weathered antique lock, found nestled atop a dusty chest during a midsummer cleanup in 1978, tightly secured the fate of Dr. C.K.Ling , the visionary behind SINOX. Etched upon its surface was a cryptic verse, which, in the hands of Dr. C.K.Ling, transformed into the concept of a combination lock. That same year marked the official registration of SINOX, heralding the beginning of a journey marked by trials and tribulations.

In its nascent stages, SINOX faced numerous hurdles. With no mechanical designs and lacking skilled engineers, setbacks were inevitable. Dr. C.K.Ling, leveraging his background in aerospace science, delved into research and development. Through painstaking trial and error, SINOX began to see modest success. Initially focused on domestic sales, the company pivoted to international markets within two years, initiating a wave of patent applications and embarking on a new era of innovation.

Steadfast Operations

Over the past decade, Dr. C.K.Ling, with the resolve of a scientist and the spirit of an engineer, breathed new life into locks. Guided by his entrepreneurial philosophy and strategic vision, SINOX gradually overcame obstacles, transcending industry norms to embrace the promise of success. Today, over 80% of SINOX's business stems from patented products developed in-house. With over 40 international and 80 domestic patents amassed in recent years, SINOX boasts a product portfolio exceeding 200 items.

Drawing upon his expertise and accumulated experience, Dr. C.K.Ling elevated lock design and functionality to unprecedented heights, surpassing industry giants. SINOX products, renowned for their quality and aesthetic appeal, have garnered acclaim in global markets, earning the trust and loyalty of customers worldwide. Dr. C.K.Ling often remarks, "The difference between a good product and a great one lies in the dedication invested." It is this ethos of diligence and innovation that propels SINOX forward.

"R&D-oriented" business strategy

At present, there are not many high-tech industries in Taiwan, and most small and medium-sized enterprises rely on "OEM" as their business method. However, OEM is, after all, a job for people. Once it loses its original use value, it will be abandoned by customers and be relegated to the cold palace. Because of this understanding, Sinox abandoned the short-term approach of eager for quick success and replaced it with a "R&D-oriented" business philosophy. Facing the current market situation of fierce competition, Dr. C.K.Ling believes that only by relying on continuous research and development can products continue to innovate and dominate market demand for a long time.

Unlocking Everything with Constant Innovation

Today, Sinox has more than 100 patents, more than 200 products, and more than 1,000 customers around the world. It can be said that it includes leading companies in related industries in various regions (the distribution of business volume is as follows: Europe 30%, the United States 40% , Japan 10%, other regions 20%), the company has more than 200 employees and produces 10 million combination locks every year. Under its business model that spans multiple industry markets (luggage, travel supplies, hardware, bicycles, gifts, sports equipment, department stores, etc.), the annual revenue growth rate in the past ten years has averaged 15%, which is its strategy The best proof of success; in addition, the concept of "innovation, quality, and image" has enabled Sinox's products to achieve certain index results. Even if its price is higher than similar products from European and American manufacturers, customers are still willing to go far away just to purchase designated products which is made in Sinox.

It remains to be decided whether it will work in mainland China

Although Sinox has carefully studied the establishment of a factory in mainland China, it is not easy to implement it in a short period of time. Sinox is well aware that the mainland has endless business opportunities and cost savings. However, due to differences in working conditions and insufficient infrastructure, it is difficult to transfer Sinox's operation and management model temporarily. At present, Sinox will continue to carry out the "strengthening structure" plan. As for the necessary training of management operations and operation systems, it will try its best to cooperate with possible future development plans in mainland China.

While hardware locks are gradually heading towards the sunset industry, Sinox is still marching forward steadily. With "Good! Even better" as its corporate slogan, the goal is to make "Sinox" a synonym for combination locks. With the momentum of chasing the sun against the times, we will redirect the setting sun to the morning light and create a new era in the lock industry.

資料來源:林長緯（2002，8月)。競泰鎖住新意。自行車市場快訊，No.85 8月&9月/2002