Our First Logistics Challenge

Overcoming Our First Logistics Challenge at Annamis

A Promise to a Friend

When Laphet, owned by our close friends, fell head over heels for Annamis crockery, it was a delightful twist. What started as a casual, “Hey, what do you think of these dishes?” spiraled into a golden opportunity: supplying bespoke pieces for their upcoming restaurant launch.

Tight Deadlines and Tough Choices

Laphet needed their order by early July, and it was already mid-April. Air freight was our only hope. To add to the thrill, they wanted custom pieces with their logo—something only Annamis could deliver.

Challenges in Vietnam

Navigating Vietnam's logistics was like playing a game of whack-a-mole. Our artisans, brilliant as they are, had never dealt with international shipping or the required documentation like customs IDs and certificates of origin. Our UK logistics provider’s Vietnamese counterpart, fresh out of the novice camp, made the situation even more interesting.

Creative Solutions Amidst Pressure

With the clock ticking, we brainstormed like mad scientists. Ideas flew—from hiring an agent to cut through the red tape to choosing a direct flight (a wallet-busting £3,500) to make the deadline.

The Arrival and Beyond

The shipment arrived safely, but not without a final twist. One of our co-founders, Diego, had to wait for hours as the truck finally rolled in just three days before Laphet’s pre-launch event. See the photo below of a relieved and slightly sleep-deprived Diego with our precious cargo.

Reflections on Resilience

This logistical rollercoaster wasn’t just a challenge; it was a crash course in determination and adaptability. Fulfilling our promise to Laphet highlighted Annamis' commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, laying a robust foundation for future ventures.

Looking Ahead

As Annamis continues to thrive, we're geared up to tackle any obstacle and deliver exceptional experiences, one bespoke piece at a time. This journey has only bolstered our resolve to make Annamis the go-to provider of Vietnamese crockery in the UK and Europe.