（3）At the Factory
◆ An American firm considers using a Chinese factory to manufacture its bicycles.
◆ Manufacturer : How do you do, Mr. Kraft. I've been expecting you.
◆ Businessman : It's good of you to show me around. Your plant is much smaller than I expected.
◆ Manufacturer : Our small size makes us very flexible. As you know, the bicycle business is very much influenced by trends and fashion. Styles change from year to year. Because we're small, we can respond to changes quickly.
◆ Businessman : Yes, you have a good reputation in the field. We've been using a manufacturer in Japan. They are very large and efficient, but they do have trouble getting the new models out quickly.
◆ Manufacturer : We certainly hope we can solve that problem for you.
◆ Businessman : Let's hope so. Well, shall we get started on our tour?
◆ Manufacturer : I suggest we start at the beginning of our production line.
◆ Businessman : Fine. How long have you been in the bicycle business, Mr. Chou?
◆ Manufacturer : I began in 1973.
◆ Businessman : Does your factory carry out the entire process of manufacturing?
◆ Manufacturer : Almost. A few necessary items like lights and seats are made elsewhere. Then they are checked for quality at our factory and added to the bicycles.
◆ Businessman : What kind of quality control do you have?
◆ Manufacturer : It's extremely tight. Quality is one of our primary considerations.
◆ Businessman : Well, thank you for showing me your plant and answering my questions. I'm looking forward to receiving the samples we talked about. If they're as good as I think they'll be, my company will be placing an order soon.
◆ Manufacturer : We'll certainly try to meet your requirements.