Chapter 161
After the agreement was signed, everyone breathed a sigh of relief, but this was just the beginning and there was still a lot of work to be done.
Qin Xiang had to leave by car early tomorrow morning, so she was racing against time to prepare for the next thing.
For the first batch of 30 styles of clothing designs, Director He directly found three experienced pattern makers to work with Qin Xiang.
Seeing Qin Xiang's design, several experienced craftsmen frowned slightly, a little nervous, "Will this kind of clothing work?"
Some of it is beyond their understanding.
Before Qin Xiang could say anything, Factory Director He spoke up. "Our clothes used to be quite conservative, but no one bought them. Boss Qin has stores in both the capital and the provincial capital, and he also runs wholesale shops in the city. He knows exactly what's trending out there. Many of the clothes they buy now are Boss Qin's designs, and they're selling very well, so we don't have to worry at all."
And there's no point in worrying. They are just OEMs, and the brand has the final say on whether it works or not.
The three craftsmen had apparently been told to maintain confidentiality before their arrival, but they weren't allowed to ask any more questions. They only asked one question, so they didn't ask any more. They started by making a pattern for one of the garments, and then Qin Xiang would go find the others to coordinate. Miao Xiaofeng followed the entire process, pen and notebook in hand, eager to record Qin Xiang's every word and action.
Because she was too busy, Qin Xiang directly declined the invitation to have dinner together in the evening.
He was busy in the factory until after nine o'clock in the evening. Only then, at Qin Yang's urging, did he go out to have a meal and then return to the guesthouse to rest.
What she didn't know was that because the factory attached too much importance to this matter, they called the pattern maker over overnight and rushed to make samples of ten pieces of clothing.
When Qin Xiang woke up, the sample clothes had already been delivered.
Miao Xiaofeng carefully checked it and verified the size. She said excitedly, "Boss, the size is exactly right. There is no problem at all."
Of course, the ten selected clothes are all made of existing fabrics in the factory. Clothes like sweaters are much more complicated and require jacquard technology, which is extremely challenging for the workers' level of machine operation.
Fortunately, the factory bought relatively advanced machines when it had money a few years ago, otherwise Qin Xiang would not dare to bring out many styles.
Finally, Qin Xiang thought to herself that this operation would be beneficial to her in every way. At least it would give her an opportunity to understand the steps and preparations required to run a garment factory. Otherwise, if she really built two factories and got a few sewing machines, she would not be able to produce clothes with excellent quality and workmanship.
Qin Xiang saw that there was still some time left, so he simply skipped breakfast and went to the factory to repeatedly emphasize and communicate with the pattern-making masters before he felt relieved.
At this moment, she felt really sorry that such a good garment factory had developed into this state. These old workers were really skilled.
It was not until after nine o'clock that Qin Xiang had to leave. Before leaving, she gave Miao Xiaofeng some instructions. She even called the capital before leaving and asked Mao Yuxiang and another clerk to come over and follow the actions of the purchasing department.
Regardless of whether Mao Yuxiang is young or not, she is Qin Xiang's person. Now that she is here with Miao Xiaofeng watching over her, she will have to grow up slowly.
There was one less person on the way back, but Qin Yang chatted more with Qin Xiang, and of course they talked about the decoration of the next seven branches.
Since we are going to open a branch, the decoration style must be unified. The previous decoration was done by Qin Yang and Qin Baotian, so this time I must teach Qin Yang again.
Qin Xiang didn't refuse, "Okay, I'll arrange someone."
After arriving in the provincial capital, Qin Xiang rushed to the airport to catch the 4 pm flight. It was not until the plane took off that Qin Xiang's tense nerves slowly relaxed.
I'm tired, really tired. It's like I'm rushing around for three days. I can't relax for a moment.
This is a phased change in her career. Even though she has the initiative, she cannot relax in the subsequent development.
The location selection of the branch, the decoration of the branch, the staffing, the subsequent listing of goods, the sales forecast, ordering, etc. are all urgent issues that need to be resolved.
Before Qin Xiang could finish thinking, the plane landed. When they got out of the airport, Miao Sheng was already waiting outside to pick them up.
Miao Sheng politely came over to help with the luggage, but found that Zhao Ping was carrying Qin Xiang's luggage, so he said, "Miss Qin, our husband has something to do this afternoon and can't come to pick you up, but he said he will go to the courtyard to meet you later."
Qin Xiang was stunned for a moment, then smiled and said, "Okay."
Qin Xiang was really tired, so when he arrived at the courtyard, he explained the situation to Zhao Ping and let him go back to rest.
I first boiled some water to take a bath, then threw myself on the big bed and fell asleep quickly.
Qin Xiang was half asleep when she heard someone knocking on the door. She looked outside and saw that it was already dark. She hurried to open the door and saw Meng Huaiqing standing outside with a lunch box in his hand.
Seeing her sleepy eyes, he smiled and said, "Did I wake you?"
"Yeah." Qin Xiang made way for him and asked, "Did you mention dinner?"
Meng Huaiqing hummed, "My chef team came over from Hong Kong City. I asked them to cook something that wasn't made outside. I feel more at ease eating it."
The two of them entered the living room and placed the food on the table. It was delicious and had both light-flavored dishes and Qin Xiang's favorite dishes.
It used to be said that if you couldn’t eat from the same pot, it would be difficult to live together if you had different tastes.
But Qin Xiang overlooked one problem. Real rich people can make meals with different flavors with just one command. Look, although it seems a bit wasteful, it is really pleasant to watch.
Qin Xiang hadn't eaten much all day, so when she came across the delicious food, she didn't hesitate at all. She didn't care whether she was reserved or not, and ate a lot of it with the big steamed buns from Shandong Province.
Meng Huaiqing poured her a glass of water and said, "Eat slowly so you don't choke."
The soft steamed buns tasted great. Qin Xiang asked, "Does your chef also make the big steamed buns from Shandong Province?"
"Well, there's a pastry chef from Shandong Province who came with us this time." Meng Huaiqing paused and suggested, "We're all busy with work on weekdays, and it would be tiring to cook for you if we get together on Saturdays and Sundays. My idea is to have the chef come over to cook for you this weekend. Even if I don't come, you don't have to cook it yourself, which saves time and effort. What do you think?"
Qin Xiang looked up at him and saw only concern and heartache.
She thought about it and nodded, "Okay."
Meng Huaiqing was relieved to see her agree, "Thank you, Qin Xiang, thank you for believing in me."
Qin Xiang laughed and said, "That's nothing. I'd love to have someone cook for me."
She learned her cooking skills from working as a nanny in her previous life, but she herself doesn't really like cooking. Her father seems to enjoy cooking now, but he doesn't want to interfere in her life, so he rarely comes over.
After they finished their meal, Qin Xiang was so full that she could only walk with the help of the wall.
But the advantages are also obvious, and the whole person feels more energetic.
Since they are a man and a woman who have tasted the forbidden fruit, there is not much difference between once and twice.
Besides, a short absence is better than a new love, and it has been a while since the last time we were together.
Well, Qin Xiang really wanted to, mainly because she was quite satisfied with Meng Huaiqing's dog waist.
So after the meal, I took a shower to help digest the food, and then did it again twice.
It’s no wonder that exercise helps with sleep, and I fall asleep early.
Qin Xiang had classes early the next morning, so she gave Meng Huaiqing a good morning kiss and then packed up and went out.
As a gentleman and considerate boyfriend, Meng Huaiqing drove Qin Xiang to school, watched her enter the school gate, and then went back to start his day as Mr. Meng.
Qin Xiang entered the classroom almost on time. Seeing her return, the people in the dormitory breathed a sigh of relief. Guan Yuping handed her the textbook and whispered, "I thought you were going to be late. This professor is famous for his love of calling the roll."
"Isn't it here?" Qin Xiang opened the textbook, gathered his thoughts and started the class.
After class, Guan Yuping whispered, "Didn't you take a flight yesterday afternoon? Why didn't you return to the dormitory?"
Qin Xiang replied, "Of course I'll go to my mansion and rest for a night."
Guan Yuping was obviously not satisfied with this answer and said suspiciously, "You must have gone on a date."
Qin Xiang didn't hide it, "It's not normal to have a date. If you're envious, go find one yourself."
But then he remembered that Guan Yuping liked to indulge in sexual activities, and he felt embarrassed to ask about the progress between the two of them.
Guan Yuping said awkwardly, "Love dog."
Qin Xiang was happy.
Several of them still had classes, but they were electives, so they soon separated, but they also made an appointment to have lunch together.
When they gathered in the cafeteria at noon, Meilin whispered, "I heard someone say they saw you and Mr. Meng coming out of the same courtyard this morning, and that you're being kept by Mr. Meng. What's going on?"
"He's supporting me?" Qin Xiang looked strange, not knowing whether to laugh or cry. "If anyone should support someone, it should be me. I bought the yard during the first month of this year, but I rarely go there."
Except for Guan Yuping, no one else in the dormitory knew that she bought the courtyard house. After all, it's not good to keep talking about such things, otherwise people will think she is showing off.
Meilin's eyes widened, "You bought it?"
Qin Xiang nodded, "Yes, I bought it."
Meilin was anxious, "But, then you two... live together?"
Qin Xiang explained, "It can't be considered living together. I usually live on campus, and I date occasionally."
She actually understood Meilin's concern. She and Meng Huaiqing were not married. If they just lived together like this, most people would not be able to accept it and would think that this was an affair between a man and a woman.
But this kind of thing is a matter of mutual consent. Meng Huaiqing is single, and she is single too. Even if someone reports it to the school, they have to produce favorable evidence, and the school may not necessarily care.
As for whether others were talking behind her back, she couldn't do anything about it.
Her words really surprised Meilin and the others.
Guan Yuping rolled her eyes, "You're just making a fuss out of nothing."
Meilin glanced at Qin Xiang and said awkwardly, "We just haven't had any contact with her... Qin Xiang, don't think too much about it. We won't say anything."
Qin Xiang said indifferently, "It's nothing, we're all adults. Even if something happens, it doesn't matter. The man is unmarried and the woman is unmarried, so it doesn't bother anyone. I don't care what others say."
I just didn't expect to be seen by others, which is indeed a bit troublesome.
However, the school is so big that just one or two rumors will not cause much trouble, mainly because no one will believe them.
Although many people have seen Qin Xiang and Meng Huaiqing walking together, walking together does not mean anything will happen.
Tsinghua University has its own pride, and they are not interfering with anyone. Regardless of whether it is true or not, what's it to you?
Qin Xiang didn't pay attention to this matter, mainly because she didn't have time to pay attention to it.
I usually have to go to class, and after school if my roommates don’t take me out to eat, I probably won’t even have time to eat and will have to run to the store.
Before Qin Xiang returned from Ningcheng, Tan Xiu had already taken his newly hired staff to Jinshi to find a storefront and prepare for a branch. Qin Xiang had originally planned to open a branch and bring a few people with him, but Tan Xiu felt that since they were going all the way south to open branches, it would be best to bring everyone along and start learning from the first store. This would allow everyone to gain more experience and work faster.
Of course, the initial stage involved finding a storefront and signing a lease agreement. Qin Xiang said that if you could buy it, then buy it; otherwise, you could lease it for a minimum of five years. After that, someone would be left to look after it while Qin Yang gathered people for renovations, while Tan Xiu worked on preparing the site for the next branch.
Time was tight and the task was heavy, so Qin Xiang took advantage of the weekend to take a bus to Jinshi. Fortunately, Jinshi was the closest city to the capital, so it was convenient to get there. Once there, a store clerk who stayed behind took her to see the location.
Perhaps because she had been with Qin Xiang for so long, Tan Xiu also preferred to choose locations near squares or department stores. While such locations were more expensive, they also attracted more people and offered a better return on investment.
The only pity is that the landlord of this store in Jinshi doesn't want to sell it, so it can only be rented out, and a five-year lease contract was signed directly.
To prevent the other party from taking the store back halfway because of their good business, Qin Xiang, like before in the provincial capital, clearly stated that if the sale is limited to Qin Xiang, the landlord shall not take back the house without reason during the lease period, otherwise he will directly compensate them with ten times the price.
This house price is the overall market value of the house, not the monthly rent, which Qin Xiang also wrote clearly.
The main reason is that I have seen a lot of things like this in my previous life, so I am taking precautions.
Qin Yang also temporarily put other orders aside and focused on the decoration of Qin Xiang's place.
It is worth mentioning that some of the people he recruited were his old colleagues in Qingshui County, and some were those who worked in construction with Qin Baotian in Qinjiatun. Anyway, they had worked there for a while and had experience at this time, so they started working in full swing according to Qin Xiang's requirements.
Meanwhile, the Xiangyanghong Garment Factory had already completed the patterns for the first batch of clothing designs Qin Xiang was going to make. Miao Xiaofeng personally brought a pattern maker to the capital for Qin Xiang's inspection. Because the patterns were all based on Qin Xiang's measurements, Qin Xiang tried on each piece as the pattern maker and Miao Xiaofeng recorded the changes.
After two days of trying on all thirty styles, the results were promising. Aside from a few minor refinements, everything else was flawless. Miao Xiaofeng then returned with her craftsman, purchased fabric, and began production of the first batch of garments. Of course, this first batch would be half autumn and half summer, with the summer styles being the first item to be produced. This would be stocked not only in the new store but also in stores in the provincial capital and the capital.
By the time Tan Xiu secured her second branch, it was already late May, and the weather had warmed up considerably. Xiangyanghong had also finished producing its first batch of goods. Xiangyanghong's internal quality inspectors conducted the first round of inspections, sorting out any substandard products. Miao Xiaofeng was then in charge of the inspection. This was Miao Xiaofeng's first time in this position, and she was nervous, eager to inspect each item.
However, time did not permit, so Miao Xiaofeng conducted random checks in a random order.
The results are also gratifying.
When Miao Xiaofeng spoke to Qin Xiang on the phone, she said, "When the list of selected candidates was posted, the family members of those from Changling who had been there started a disturbance, and Director He sent them to the police station. Later, everyone calmed down and realized that the people selected were all hardworking people, and there was no backdoor dealings. Everyone was afraid of Director He's tactics, so they stopped making a fuss. I heard that Director He also held separate meetings with the selected workers. Anyway, when I went to the workshop to inspect, everyone was very motivated, and no one was slacking off."
She paused and continued, "Later I learned that the deputy factory manager in charge of production, in order to prevent cheating and passing off inferior goods as good ones, would immediately disrupt the groups and conduct mutual inspections before leaving get off work every day. Any defective clothing found would have their wages directly deducted. Although some workers grumbled about this method, no one wanted to have their wages deducted for such a thing, so they worked even more carefully and meticulously."
Qin Xiang heaved a sigh of relief upon hearing this. "That's good, but you're guarding there on my behalf, so you can't be careless."
"I know." Miao Xiaofeng sighed, "I used to be like a frog in a well. Now that I've come out to see and learn, I realize that I have many shortcomings. Although the leaders in the factory all have their own plans, I can also learn a lot. By the way, Yuxiang is also doing a good job and is very serious. The fabric samples she brought back were all made according to your requirements."
Qin Xiang smiled and said, "Okay, I'll give you bonuses at the end of the year. This year is a very important year for us, especially the autumn and winter collections after October. We must win this battle and have a prosperous New Year."
Miao Xiaofeng sighed, full of energy. She planned to save money and one day buy a house in the capital like a boss.
With Qin Yang working overtime, the storefront in Jinshi was renovated quickly. Qin Xiang asked Tan Xiu to busy herself with setting up the branch store first. Qin Xiang took her roommates there during the weekend and let them have some social practice - they matched the existing clothes and then hung them on the wall.
After studying fashion design for nearly a year, these girls had sold design drafts to Qin Xiang and had previous experience, but when they actually started to decorate a clothing store, they discovered their own shortcomings.
Several people had different ideas, and the results of their arrangements were also different. In the end, one person was responsible for an area, and the arrangement he made felt awkward.
In the end, it was Dingxiang who raised the issue, and several people got together to agree on a plan, and then they cleaned up the store.
The girls were quite satisfied with the results of their work, and Qin Xiang also gave them some affirmation.
Ding Xiang smiled and said, "If Qin Xiang hadn't given us the opportunity, we might not have discovered so many problems."
"That's fine. Come continue to work for me during the summer vacation." Qin Xiang couldn't help laughing.
Ding Xiang pursed her lips and said, "But my friend and I have an appointment to go to the square during the summer vacation to find an opportunity to serve as a tour guide for foreigners and practice English."
Meilin, on the other hand, was very excited because she couldn't stay during the winter break. "I won't go back during the summer break. I'll do it with you."
The others haven't decided what to do during the summer vacation yet, so let's leave it alone for now.
Qin Xiang has no time to go back to the provincial capital anyway, but because of the store business, Qin Xiang has more opportunities to meet her third brother. It's a pity that Qin Juan is busy with the store business, otherwise she really wants to go back to see her fourth sister.
After cleaning up, it was time to open the business. In order to better attract customers, Qin Xiang simply asked Hao Jingjing to act as a matchmaker and found someone who worked at a radio station. With the help of the other party, Qin Xiang directly placed advertisements on Jinshi TV Station. Not only advertisements on TV, but also advertisements in newspapers were placed.
The ad didn't try to be too novel, just the store name and address. The main attraction was a Hong Kong-style sale: all clothes would be 15% off for the first three days. At the time, TV dramas were constantly airing, and the ad ran alongside them for a week, giving it plenty of publicity. Many families had heard about a clothing store opening near Jinshi Square. It was rumored to be factory direct sales with 15% off. Since the opening fell on a weekend, many were curious and planned to go and join in the fun.
Two days before the opening, Qin Xiang had to attend classes, so Mi Hongjun came over to lead the store staff to do the final preparations.
The opening day happened to be Children's Day, so Qin Xiang specially asked someone to buy some balloons and hang them on both sides of the door so that customers with children could use them to entertain their children. Young girls could also get a balloon. Anyway, it was just for fun.
After all, he had arranged it himself, so Qin Xiang took the people in the dormitory and headed to Jinshi early in the morning.
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