Our Journey: Rattan Island by Glorious Family Company Limited
At the heart of Rattan Island lies a story that is as unique and intricate as the patterns woven into each piece of our rattan furniture and decor. It's a narrative of adventure, vision, and unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, which began with a daring leap into the unknown over two decades ago by Steven Simpson. Fresh from university and fueled by the savings of many weekends spent working in warehouses in the UK, Steven embarked on a gap year journey that would eventually lead him to the bustling streets of Bangkok, Thailand. It was here, amidst the vibrant culture, that Steven's path crossed with Aye Nanthar, affectionately known as Helen who is from Myanmar and was working with a Myanmar company, with offices in Thailand selling Myanmar handicrafts to importers in the US, UK and Italy, through word of mouth contacts.
As the digital age dawned, Steven recognized an opportunity that many in Myanmar could not see. He envisioned a bridge between the age-old tradition of Burmese rattan craftsmanship and the emerging global online market—a vision too advanced for a region still grappling with the advent of electricity and internet connectivity. With this foresight, Rattan Island by Glorious Family Company Limited was conceived in the fertile grounds of the Ayewaddy region and Yangon, marking the beginning of a new era in rattan furniture and home decor.
Nearly two decades later, Rattan Island stands as a testament to a dream realized. Our base in Myanmar is more than just a place of business; it's the lifeblood of a community that thrives on the artistry of rattan. Our direct staff of around 80 individuals work hand-in-hand with approximately 500-800 subcontracted workers. These skilled artisans, who weave their magic into each piece in the comfort of their homes, especially thrive during the off-seasons of crop growth, contributing significantly to our production capabilities.
However, this unique model of operation presents its own set of challenges, particularly during the main harvest season from January to April. As our weavers turn their attention to collecting their bean crops, we navigate through these production hurdles with a spirit of resilience and adaptability. It's a period that teaches us patience and the importance of supporting our artisans, whose livelihoods are as seasonal and cyclical as the very crops they harvest.
Our operations in Yangon and the Ayewaddy region reflect our commitment to quality and community. From coloring and quality control to packaging and raw material processing, every step is undertaken with precision and care by our dedicated team. Our international marketing team, led by Steven our marketing manager with over two decades of experience, ensures that Rattan Island's presence is felt across the globe, from trade fairs in Thailand, China, Korea, and Myanmar to the homes of customers who value the beauty and craftsmanship of our products.
Rattan Island is more than a brand; it's a bridge between tradition and modernity, a source of livelihood for hundreds, and a beacon of Myanmar's rich artisanal heritage on the global stage. Our story, which began with a gap year adventure, has blossomed into a mission to bring the timeless beauty of Burmese rattan into homes around the world, while fostering growth and innovation in our local communities.
We invite you to explore the world of Rattan Island, where each piece is not just furniture but a testament to the spirit of innovation, craftsmanship, and the enduring strength of our glorious family.
Happiness
Steven & Aye Nanthar