Wendy Quach: Signing leases and a summer safari

At the height of pandemic fever, when everyone was clearing out their wardrobes, Wendy Quach was filling hers, and founding an online thrift store, & Again, in the process. She believes digitalising thrifting, especially in an era that demands sustainability, is critical for increasing uptake.

With no background in fashion, Quach has relied on her experience in marketing, law and the startup tech industry to get her through. But, the business is also an homage to her cultural roots, with Quach finding inspiration in her upbringing. 

Her parents, having come to New Zealand as Vietnamese refugees, instilled in her the values of hard work and resourcefulness. Growing up, they believed in living simply. New clothes were often treated as “status symbols.” & Again is Quach’s attempt to transform how pre-loved clothes are seen while honouring her parent's values. 

With a big year of growth behind her, including moving warehouses, and big plans for the future, Quach shares her plans for keeping the business rolling while taking a summer break. 

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How long are you taking off over the Xmas New Year break? 

I'm planning to take a three-week break this year to spend time with my partner's family. Since they live overseas and we don't get to see them often, we're really looking forward to spending Christmas together.

‍Where are you planning to go?

We're off to Tanzania for a safari, and I am also excited to finally see Petra in Jordan!

How do you plan to keep the business going while you do?‍

I've got an incredible team handling the day-to-day operations of the business, and because everything is online, I can still be flexible and available when needed.

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In previous years have your holidays been disrupted?

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Nothing that I can remember! Since we operate as a completely digital business, everything keeps chugging along smoothly, even when we're taking time off and enjoying the holidays with loved ones.

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How often will you take work calls or check emails?

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Even though I try not to, I catch myself checking my emails all the time! I tend to feel a bit anxious during the holidays, so I find myself frequently glancing at my phone just to make sure there aren't any unexpected issues that need my attention.

What was your biggest headache (problem) at work in 2023?

We grew a lot in the last 12 months, so we decided to sign a new lease before the previous one ended. Long story short, it was stressful, so we had to roll with it and make the most of a pretty bad situation. I definitely learned from this headache.

One thing you want to achieve in 2024?

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I'm looking to keep expanding the brand and building up the team for the business. A personal milestone would also be to start paying myself and draw a full-time salary at some point in 2024.

‍Wendy Quach’s answers are part of a two-week series Break from Business as Usual Caffeine is running leading up to and during the Xmas break, featuring startup founders and ecosystem players.

As told to Mary Hurley