As early as the 19th century, foreign merchants developed large-scale industries in Hong Kong; there were also many family workshops producing everyday items by hand. Hong Kong industry germinated in the early 20th century with the emergence of light industries involving low-level skills. After the Second World War, Hong Kong was transformed from an entrepot to an export-oriented industrial economy – the city's export volume led the world. Hong Kong industry celebrated its heyday in the 1970s. "Made in Hong Kong" became an internationally recognised brand, resulting in a great improvement in people's living standards. In recent years, Hong Kong industries underwent another structural change. Although many factories were relocated to Mainland China, Hong Kong remained a base for decision making, product design and promotion. The city is also exploring new possibilities in the high-tech and creative industries.

Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, this exhibition showcases some 1,200 sets of classic Hong Kong-made products. In addition to documenting the history of Hong Kong industry over the past century, the exhibition explores the direction for future development, shows how industrialists strived for success, and pays tribute to the working class for its contribution to Hong Kong's industrial development.