In Vietnam, elements like newspaper wallpapers and sheet metals are emblematic of the modest lifestyle of the lower working class, particularly among street vendors. I incorporated these materials into the décor to minimize costs and to embody the 'no-frills, down-to-earth' essence of a banh mi shop, a place known for selling affordable street food. Banh mi is a popular choice for the working class due to its filling and budget-friendly nature. Just as running a banh mi cart is straightforward, operating a shop should also be free from unnecessary complexity.
There are 8 retail locations in Vancouver mainland and the vicinity.
FRANCHISE
STARTUP
The scalable design for my sandwich business, Obanhmi, was inspired by a street vendor in Vietnam. "Ổ bánh mì" translates to "loaf of bread," reflecting the essence of our product. The idea of creating a distinctive and exceptional banh mi shop crystallized during a long flight back to Seattle. Over the course of 24 weekends, I committed myself to launching 8 Obanhmi shops. Now, Obanhmi is a thriving local business, known for its efficiency and high level of automation.
Company
OBANHMI
Role
FOUNDER
I crafted a business plan, applying my knowledge of people, product, and process to achieve optimal results with minimal effort over a few years. My experience in managing large-scale projects and leading international teams enabled me to make sound business decisions, despite my lack of prior experience in the restaurant industry.