Unlocking Creativity with Specialized Adhesive Solutions
In the intricate world of hobby modeling, the right adhesive is paramount. Cartell Chemical, a Taiwanese adhesive powerhouse, is making waves in the hobby model market with its proprietary brand, MXBON. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the company’s vision, innovations, and future plans.
Q1: Tell us about the company Cartell Chemical / MXBON.
Cartell Chemical is a Taiwanese company with over 30 years of experience specializing in adhesive production. As one of the world’s largest manufacturers of cyanoacrylate adhesives, we pride ourselves on advanced production technologies and a comprehensive product line. We offer superior OEM/ODM services and adhesive solutions to customers globally.
Our subsidiaries span six countries—Taiwan, China, India, Thailand, the UK, and the USA—serving over 300 regions across various industries. Our proprietary brand, MXBON, has recently developed specialized adhesives targeting diverse market needs, including automation, electronics manufacturing, medical devices, consumer goods, hobby model making, and beauty sectors. We’re committed to addressing consumer adhesive issues, enhancing production efficiency, and accelerating innovation to provide a superior user experience.
Q2: Why did you decide to enter the hobby business?
We recognized significant potential and creativity in the hobby model market, where professional use of adhesives is crucial. Many model enthusiasts in Taiwan have been using our adhesives and provided valuable feedback for improvement. This encouraged us to launch a product line specifically designed for model makers, offering more effective solutions.
Additionally, we actively participate in modeling events and competitions worldwide, such as Taiwan RF, the Beijing Model Exhibition, and Hungary’s MOSON SHOW. These interactions have inspired numerous creative applications and product development ideas, enriching our product line and expanding the diversity in the adhesive application market. We look forward to continuing to drive innovation and progress in this sector.
Q3: What did you think after reading the adhesive feature in the December 2023 issue of Model Art?
Model Art is a reputable Japanese professional modeling magazine that selects different themes and recommends practical tools for model creators in each issue. When planning our HOBBY MATE model adhesive series, we extensively referenced Model Art’s content to better suit modern creators’ habits, techniques, and challenges.
After reading the December 2023 issue’s feature on adhesives, we noticed that many Japanese creators prefer domestic brands. As a representative Taiwanese adhesive brand, MXBON hopes that Model Art can introduce more high-quality overseas adhesives to Japanese creators, offering them a broader selection. We believe that through this collaboration, our products will not only gain attention and affection from Japanese enthusiasts but also achieve greater recognition in the international market.
Q4: Currently, you have three product lines. What are your future plans and goals?
Through in-depth discussions with many creators, we identified three major challenges they often face:
- Lack of Flexible Creation Time: Creators need adhesives that allow for adjustments before setting.
- Whitening Effects After Adhesive Application: Aesthetic integrity is crucial, and blooming can detract from the final appearance.
- Challenges in Bonding Different Materials: Versatility in adhesives is essential for diverse materials.
To address these issues, we introduced the HOBBY MATE product line, including:
- LIGHT CURE CA (Cyanoacrylate Adhesive): Allows for flexible creation time and precise adjustments before curing.
- LOW ODOR & BLOOMING CA: Eliminates blooming effects post-application, preserving the model’s aesthetics.
- PRIMER PEN & CA SET: Enhances bonding capabilities, especially with diverse materials.
Our aim is to provide better solutions for creators. In the future, we plan to continue expanding our product line, focusing on innovating and improving to offer more efficient and professional products and services. We’re committed to solving real-world problems that creators face, helping them unleash greater creative potential and showcase their works in the best possible way.
Q5: What are the differentiation points and weaknesses compared to other competing products within Japan?
Compared to other products in Japan, our main strengths lie in:
- Innovative Formulations: Advanced adhesive technologies offering superior performance.
- User-Friendly Packaging Design: Practical designs catering to model makers’ needs.
- Market-Specific Application Development: Products developed with a deep understanding of creators’ techniques and challenges.
However, we also face some challenges:
- Increased Shipping Costs and Inspection Times: International transportation leads to higher customs duties, potentially increasing the final retail price compared to local Japanese brands.
- Brand Recognition: Japanese domestic brands have deeply ingrained images and cultural ties with consumers. As newcomers, we require time and effort to build brand recognition and consumer trust.
Despite these challenges, we’re dedicated to establishing a strong presence in Japan and providing Japanese creators with high-quality adhesive options.
Discover how MXBON can elevate your modeling projects and join the revolution in adhesive innovation.
The following excerpt is from Model Art Modeling Magazine, December 2024 issue, pages 110-111. This issue is available at bookstores and model shops throughout Japan, as well as through online mail-order sites. For more details, visit: Model Art Official Webshop
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll continue our conversation with Cartell Chemical, covering questions Q6 to Q10.