62: The Road to Expansion and Unexpected Alliances
Part 1: Setting Up the Workshop
As Li Mei's business continued to grow, it became increasingly clear that her small cottage could no longer sustain the volume of orders and production needed to meet the demand for her medicinal remedies. The herbs, tools, and supplies were spilling into every corner, making the work environment both inefficient and cramped. Thus, she resolved to establish a proper workshop.
Li Mei began her search for a site that was both affordable and functional. After a few weeks of searching, she discovered an abandoned plot of land on the outskirts of the village. It was strategically located near a stream that would provide ample water for her processes. The area was also easily accessible via a main road, which would allow her to transport ingredients and finished products without hassle.
Once the land was acquired, Li Mei began to think about the design and layout of the workshop. She consulted with a local architect who had worked on building structures in the region, using traditional techniques combined with practicality for the production environment.
1. Design Features:
Main Production Area: This was the largest part of the workshop, approximately 600 square feet. The main area was divided into sections for herb preparation, mixing, and bottling. Stone tiles covered the floor to ensure easy cleaning. The walls were made from local timber, providing insulation and warmth during the colder months. Large windows were placed along one side of the workshop, ensuring ample natural light flooded the space, which was essential for accurate work.
Storage: An entire section of the workshop (about 200 square feet) was dedicated to storing raw herbs, oils, and other materials. Wooden shelves were built along the walls, and the floor space was organized with racks to keep herbs off the ground and protect them from humidity. Specific temperature-controlled sections for delicate herbs like ginseng, lavender, and saffron were created, as these herbs were highly sensitive.
Packaging Area: A separate 150-square-foot section was assigned to the packaging process. Li Mei wanted this area to be clean and organized, with separate spaces for sealing, labeling, and storing the finished products before delivery. Simple wooden crates were built to store the finished bottles of medicine.
Rest Area for Workers: At the back of the workshop, a small room was set aside as a breakroom. There, workers could relax, enjoy simple meals, and take short breaks. A small cooking stove and a few benches were placed inside, ensuring the workers could prepare tea or simple food during long shifts.