Helping Middle Eastern Clients Create Innovative Multi-Functional Outdoor Stoves

In August 2024, a client from the Middle East reached out to us through the DHPO official website with a creative request: to develop a multi-functional outdoor stove capable of brewing coffee and cooking for picnics. The initial product concept was provided by a local design firm, who shared rough renderings and a handmade prototype. However, the challenge arose in translating this design into a viable, functional product.

To find the right partner, Esmael contacted over 20 companies for comparison before choosing us for a deeper collaboration. We quickly assembled a team and organized a video conference to thoroughly understand the client's requirements, ensuring both parties were aligned on project goals, budget, and development processes.

Throughout this collaboration, our team remained dedicated to our corporate philosophy of "altruism," fully recognizing the challenges and uncertainties the client faced. We viewed ourselves not just as a partner, but as a strategic advisor, helping the client avoid potential pitfalls and optimize the project plan. Through multiple internal meetings and careful analysis of every detail, we ensured that we provided expert guidance and support at every stage. Esmael was impressed by our sincerity and professionalism, ultimately deciding to move forward with us.

After initial discussions, we swiftly began a detailed project evaluation. Our product development department worked closely with the client to analyze the feasibility of the product design. We recommended using 304 stainless steel and plastic handles to ensure the product was both visually appealing and practical. To minimize costs and verify the design, we decided to use 3D printing before committing to the high cost of mold production. In a short time, we created a prototype using 3D printing technology and shared the progress with the client, allowing for prompt adjustments and confirmations of the product details. Once the 3D printing stage was completed, DHPO organized a team of engineers, product directors, and production managers to conduct a thorough feasibility analysis of the project. We held another video conference with the client, and after extensive discussions and validation, we confirmed the design was feasible and recommended moving forward to the mold development phase.

Thanks to our in-depth analysis and optimization suggestions, the client was able to reduce potential risks and save costs. Ultimately, they chose to follow our advice and proceed with mold development.

During this process, we faced challenges due to the complexity of the product, especially with parts made from different materials requiring precise compatibility. We worked closely with multiple suppliers to ensure every part was perfectly aligned. Despite encountering some technical difficulties, our development team never backed down. With their extensive experience and expertise, we successfully created a prototype that met the client's specifications.

As the prototype neared completion, the client flew from the Middle East to China to conduct an on-site inspection at our factory. During the inspection, the client provided a few minor modification requests, which we quickly addressed to ensure the final prototype met their expectations.

The client was highly impressed by our professionalism and swift response, and they had the opportunity to witness the laser engraving of the final logo. After a series of detailed revisions and confirmations, we successfully delivered the complete prototype before the client returned home, earning their approval and satisfaction.

Once the sample was confirmed, our cost department immediately conducted a detailed calculation and provided a precise quotation based on the client’s order volume. After returning to the Middle East, the client swiftly coordinated with their team to confirm the order. We ensured strict quality control and timely production during the manufacturing process, guaranteeing on-time delivery. Considering that this product was an entirely new design, we advised the client to apply for patent protection in China to safeguard against potential intellectual property risks. With our extensive experience in patent applications, the client entrusted us to assist with the patent filing process.

Through this ODM collaboration, we not only helped the client successfully develop an innovative product that met market demand but also deeply embodied our corporate spirit of "altruism" throughout the project. Our customer-centric approach ensured that we optimized design and production within the client’s budget, ultimately achieving a win-win partnership.

Keywords: Outdoor stove, ODM service

Originally published 03 Jan 2025, updated 03 Jan 2025.