In the world of business, it’s often the most personal experiences that spark the most revolutionary ideas. For Tarynn Hatton-Jones, the Founder and CEO of Burnt Oringe International Limited, the journey began not in a boardroom but in her own home, faced with a simple but profound challenge. Living in Hong Kong, Tarynn found it difficult to source bedding that was free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde—something she desperately needed for her young daughter, who was suffering from chest issues. Despite extensive searches across the city, her options were few, and none of them fit the organic, chemical-free criteria she sought.
Frustrated but determined, Tarynn took matters into her own hands, importing organic bedding from abroad at significant personal cost. This experience, born from a deeply personal concern for her family’s health, planted the seeds of what would later become Burnt Oringe International Limited. In 2009, she founded the company with a mission to offer organic and sustainable home textiles that were not only healthy but beautiful, providing customers with an alternative to the chemical-laden options dominating the market at the time.
The name “Burnt Oringe” carries a deep, personal meaning for Tarynn. It’s a homage to the stunning sunsets she remembered from her native South Africa, a rich and glowing orange hue that illuminated the horizon—a reminder of home. This color, symbolizing warmth and vitality, became the emblem for her company, which would soon be known not just for its eco-conscious products but for its bold approach to design and sourcing.
What began as a humble home textiles company soon expanded into the global FF&E procurement business we know today. However, the journey from inception to international success was far from easy. The organic materials movement was far from mainstream back in 2006, when Tarynn first faced her challenges. The very concept of organic materials in everyday living was foreign to most, and convincing consumers and businesses alike of their value became a significant part of her mission. Tarynn’s work in building awareness about the benefits of eco-friendly textiles, alongside her passion for sustainability, laid the foundation for what would become Burnt Oringe International Limited—a global leader in the furniture procurement industry.
Rising From Adversity: The Journey from Corporate Law to Entrepreneurship
Making the transition from a well-established corporate career to starting her own business wasn’t something Tarynn did lightly. Working in the Legal & Compliance department of a bank, she was no stranger to high-pressure environments. However, when the 2008 global financial crisis struck, the collapse of Lehman Brothers and the resulting economic downturn led to a series of retrenchments. For many, this would have been a setback, but for Tarynn, it was a pivotal moment in her life—one that she would embrace with courage.
Rather than retreat into the security of a corporate job, she saw this as an opportunity to embark on something entirely different. The loss of her position in banking gave her the chance to pursue her passion for sustainability and home textiles. The timing was fortuitous—Hong Kong, with its entrepreneurial spirit and vibrant marketplace, seemed like the perfect backdrop to begin her journey. Despite her initial lack of experience in the textile industry, Tarynn knew that she could leverage her skills in research, negotiation, and problem-solving to create something truly special.
However, entrepreneurship is never without its challenges, especially for someone stepping into an entirely new industry. One of the hardest hurdles for Tarynn to overcome was the isolation of working alone. As the head of a small company, she had to rely on her own motivation to keep pushing forward, often without the support system she’d been accustomed to in her corporate career. But Tarynn, ever the resilient leader, embraced these challenges and remained steadfast in her vision. Her journey was not just about building a business; it was about creating a platform for sustainable design and quality products in an industry that had long prioritized cost over environmental impact.
Through sheer determination, she managed to transform the initial struggles into a thriving global business, proving that with vision, persistence, and a passion for innovation, obstacles could be turned into opportunities.
Sourcing Excellence: The Art Behind Every Product
Sourcing is the backbone of Burnt Oringe International Limited’s operations, and Tarynn’s approach to it is an intricate and calculated art form. For her, sourcing is not just about finding suppliers—it’s about building relationships, understanding cultural nuances, and ensuring that every material aligns with the company’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
The process begins with finding the right factories, a step that sounds simple but is far from it. It’s not just about checking off technical requirements; it’s about selecting factories that align with the company’s vision and ethical standards. Tarynn and her team visit industrial hubs, inspect facilities, and evaluate samples—ensuring that each factory they partner with can meet the high standards of quality that Burnt Oringe International Limited is known for. Over the years, this process has evolved into a finely tuned system built on relationships, trust, and a deep understanding of the global supply chain.
After identifying suitable factories, the next step is conducting due diligence. This is where Tarynn’s expertise in negotiation and problem-solving truly shines. She ensures that each factory adheres to ethical practices, including fair labor conditions and safety standards. Financial stability is another crucial factor, as a factory facing financial instability could potentially disrupt the production process. These checks, though time-consuming, are necessary to guarantee that the entire supply chain is reliable and transparent.
Once factories are vetted, Tarynn works with her clients to extract every nuance of their vision. Each project begins with a detailed collaboration where the client’s design concepts are translated into comprehensive spreadsheets, outlining everything from sizes and colors to materials and finishes. This process, known as the “process of elimination,” is where all the details are hammered out to ensure that what is envisioned can actually be produced within the factory’s capabilities. By working closely with designers and factories, Tarynn’s team ensures that the final product matches the client’s expectations, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality.
Crafting Innovation: Staying Ahead of Design Trends
In an industry as dynamic as design and furniture procurement, staying ahead of trends is crucial. However, it’s not just about following the latest fads—it’s about balancing innovation with practicality. Tarynn understands this balance well, and it’s one of the key factors behind Burnt Oringe International Limited’s continued success. She and her team are always on the lookout for fresh ideas and new materials, attending global furniture fairs to stay informed about cutting-edge designs.
Being present at these events allows Burnt Oringe International Limited not only to stay up to date on trends but also to maintain close connections with factories, ensuring that they can provide clients with the latest, most advanced materials. This proactive approach to sourcing new products ensures that Burnt Oringe International Limited’s clients always have access to the most innovative, sustainable, and high-quality design solutions.
Additionally, the company takes pride in its commitment to sustainability, with Tarynn championing the shift toward eco-friendly materials in furniture design. The growing availability of sustainable options means that Burnt Oringe International Limited is able to offer clients a diverse range of products that don’t compromise on quality, while also contributing to a more environmentally responsible industry.
Sustainability at the Forefront: The Future of Furniture Procurement
One of the driving forces behind Burnt Oringe International Limited’s success is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. Tarynn has long been an advocate for eco-friendly design, and her passion for sustainability has been a cornerstone of the company’s mission. The future of the furniture procurement industry is undeniably tied to sustainability, and Tarynn believes that the industry is only going to continue moving in that direction. As more and more consumers and businesses seek out eco-friendly products, the demand for sustainable materials in furniture design is growing exponentially.
This shift has already begun, with manufacturers and designers now offering a wider variety of sustainable options than ever before. The challenge, however, is ensuring that these materials are not just environmentally friendly but also functional, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Burnt Oringe International Limited has embraced this challenge, consistently offering innovative, sustainable design solutions that meet the evolving needs of their global clientele.
Looking ahead, Tarynn believes that the future of the industry will see even more advancements in sustainable materials, as well as the integration of technologies like artificial intelligence and automation in production processes. These innovations will not only improve the efficiency of manufacturing but also contribute to further reducing the industry’s environmental impact.
Burnt Oringe International Limited’s Global Expansion: Leadership, Challenges, and Success
Burnt Oringe International Limited’s growth from a small local business to a global leader in FF&E procurement is a testament to Tarynn’s visionary leadership. Managing a global team across multiple locations presents its own set of challenges, but Tarynn’s leadership philosophy has played a key role in the company’s success. She leads with authenticity, fostering an environment where her team feels supported and motivated, even in high-pressure situations.
Her leadership is built on empathy, integrity, and resilience—three qualities she believes are essential for any leader, especially in the fast-paced and ever-changing design and procurement industry. Empathy allows Tarynn to understand her clients’ needs and create collaborative partnerships that lead to successful projects. Integrity builds trust with both clients and suppliers, ensuring transparency and ethical practices in every step of the process. Resilience allows her to navigate setbacks and challenges while continuing to push the company toward innovation and growth.
Under her leadership, Burnt Oringe International Limited has forged strong relationships with clients and suppliers worldwide. The company’s ability to deliver high-quality, bespoke solutions has earned it a reputation as a trusted partner in the industry. Through its commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and dedication to customer satisfaction, Burnt Oringe International Limited has become a global leader in the procurement of FF&E solutions.
Empowering Future Entrepreneurs: Advice from a Seasoned CEO
As a seasoned entrepreneur who has navigated the complexities of running a global business, Tarynn offers invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. First and foremost, she emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships. Whether with clients, suppliers, or employees, having a network of trusted partners is crucial to long-term success.
She also advises future entrepreneurs to embrace patience. Building a successful business doesn’t happen overnight, and the process often requires overcoming setbacks and learning from failures. Entrepreneurs must be willing to put in the time and effort to hone their craft and refine their business strategies.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Burnt Oringe International Limited
As Tarynn looks to the future, she is excited about the potential for growth and innovation. Burnt Oringe International Limited is poised to continue expanding its global reach, providing clients with high-quality, sustainable furniture and procurement solutions. With the growing demand for eco-friendly products and the rapid advancements in design technology, the next chapter for Burnt Oringe International Limited promises to be filled with opportunities for continued success.
A Legacy of Impact and Innovation
Tarynn Hatton-Jones’s journey is one of perseverance, vision, and transformation. Through her unwavering dedication to sustainability and her innovative approach to furniture procurement, she has created a legacy that will inspire generations to come. As Burnt Oringe International Limited continues to lead the industry toward a more sustainable and innovative future, Tarynn’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of passion, resilience, and authenticity in entrepreneurship.