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End of an era
We are embarking on a big change at BrickTanks this week and to be honest, I have mixed feelings about it. It feels like the end of an era in many ways. Let me explain.
Since I took over running BrickTanks in February 2018, I was doing pretty much everything myself from packing parcels and ordering in stock to responding to customer emails and posting on social media – we’ve come a long way since then, getting our own warehouse and two full-time staff. It’s been quite a journey for me personally as I previously had little business experience and zero knowledge of tanks!
I’ve had to get to grips with using various IT systems, warehouse processes and learning to identify numerous military vehicles, as well as managing the finances (with help from Neil in the background obviously). But one thing I always said was I wanted to maintain the personal touch no matter what. The connection with so many amazingly loyal customers who I am very fond of is what has kept me going over the years. And a large part of that connection is the handwritten notes we put in with each order.
So, I was conflicted when Neil and I sat down to discuss the idea of outsourcing the fulfilment. James and Amelia have been doing a brilliant job of fulfilling orders, but as the business grows their expertise are better put to use elsewhere than packing parcels each day (like making Pippa the pooch a social media star).
This week we are moving over to a third party fulfilment warehouse who will be sending out orders on our behalf. This will mean an end to our little notes and we have decided not to print them instead as that feels a bit inauthentic. That said, we hope the move will enable us to step up our customer service instead and we are coming up with some fun new ways to add more creative personal touches.
We hope the transition to the new warehouse will be a positive one, we’ll all be glad to move out of our dungeon and into an office which has windows for starters! Please do let us know if there are any teething issues from your side. Luckily the new warehouse is only over the road, so we can easily go and check up on them.
Warmest wishes,
Since I took over running BrickTanks in February 2018, I was doing pretty much everything myself from packing parcels and ordering in stock to responding to customer emails and posting on social media – we’ve come a long way since then, getting our own warehouse and two full-time staff. It’s been quite a journey for me personally as I previously had little business experience and zero knowledge of tanks!
I’ve had to get to grips with using various IT systems, warehouse processes and learning to identify numerous military vehicles, as well as managing the finances (with help from Neil in the background obviously). But one thing I always said was I wanted to maintain the personal touch no matter what. The connection with so many amazingly loyal customers who I am very fond of is what has kept me going over the years. And a large part of that connection is the handwritten notes we put in with each order.
So, I was conflicted when Neil and I sat down to discuss the idea of outsourcing the fulfilment. James and Amelia have been doing a brilliant job of fulfilling orders, but as the business grows their expertise are better put to use elsewhere than packing parcels each day (like making Pippa the pooch a social media star).
This week we are moving over to a third party fulfilment warehouse who will be sending out orders on our behalf. This will mean an end to our little notes and we have decided not to print them instead as that feels a bit inauthentic. That said, we hope the move will enable us to step up our customer service instead and we are coming up with some fun new ways to add more creative personal touches.
We hope the transition to the new warehouse will be a positive one, we’ll all be glad to move out of our dungeon and into an office which has windows for starters! Please do let us know if there are any teething issues from your side. Luckily the new warehouse is only over the road, so we can easily go and check up on them.
Warmest wishes,
Zoë and the BrickTanks Team
A few reminders:
- PRICE-MATCHING: If you find a Cobi set we stock cheaper and available elsewhere including the equivalent next day P&P, please email us and we'll do our best to price match for you: admin@bricktanks.co.uk
- DISCOUNT CODES: When you sign up to a free BrickTanks account you automatically earn Panzer Points which eventually add up to discount codes which you can redeem against future orders. There is also an automatic 10% gift bundle discount applied when you purchase 5 or more smaller sets at less than £15 each.
- MISSING PIECES? No problem, we can help!
- SALES: Check out our latest SALES!
- DISCONTINUED SETS: Don't miss out: double check which sets COBI has informed us they are discontinuing HERE.
- EARLY BIRD PRE-ORDERS: Place your super early PRE-ORDERS HERE.
- BE PART OF THE COMMUNITY: COBI is still relatively unknown in the UK so please help us spread the word and help ensure we can keep doing what we're doing! Please email us high quality photos of your sets and we will share them on our website and social media accounts.
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John Edwards
I understand that you have to progress to outsourcing the logistics, but I shall miss those lovely comments and smilely faces. All the very best
John
Simon Hodgetts
I was really touched to see a handwritten note in my recent purchase and it made me feel special and valued. I understand that as you grow it will not be possible do this going forward so I completely understand – I wanted to say thanks. I work in a small family business so I know exactly what it’s like to put in the hours and have the personal touch. Keep doing what you’re doing Zoe – thumbs up from me.
Martin Stapleton
Good on you, although i will miss the hand written notes
Wishing you all the best.
Sharron Parker
Phew. For a moment there I thought you were going to say you had sold the business. I am sure it will all be fine and 6 months from now you will look back, wonder why you were worried and think it was the best move you could make. Good luck. I have a shopping list from Archie so should be placing an order soon xx
Nick
Good luck with it all team. I’m sure it will all be fine