The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions, mooncakes, and lantern-lit celebrations, but for businesses and consumers alike, it often comes with a familiar challenge: supply chain disruptions. This surge in demand coincides with a period when factories, warehouses, and logistics teams operate with reduced staff due to holidays, leading to slower production and shipment processing.

At the same time, ports and carriers can become congested, raw materials like lotus seeds and premium teas may be in short supply, and unexpected spikes in customer demand can strain inventory even further. Combined, these factors create a perfect storm of delays, making early planning and proactive strategies essential to ensuring that festive goods reach shelves—and homes—on time.

1. Forecast Demand Early
Start by analysing past sales trends and current market conditions. Knowing which products are likely to be popular—whether traditional mooncakes, specialty teas, or festive gift sets—will help you order accurately and avoid last-minute shortages.

2. Diversify Suppliers
Relying on a single supplier can be risky. Seek alternative vendors locally and internationally to mitigate potential delays. Even having a backup for key ingredients or packaging materials can make a big difference.

3. Place Orders Ahead of Time
As shipping delays have become more common, early ordering is crucial. For businesses, this could mean securing stock months in advance. For consumers, shopping early for popular gift items ensures you won’t be left empty-handed.

4. Optimise Inventory Management
Use real-time inventory tracking to monitor stock levels and anticipate gaps. Combining predictive analytics with safety stock strategies can help maintain a steady supply without overstocking.

5. Communicate With Customers
Transparency builds trust. Inform customers early about potential delays or limited availability. Offering pre-orders or early bird specials can help manage expectations and maintain sales even in tight supply conditions.

6. Plan Logistics Strategically
Consider multiple delivery options and routes to ensure goods reach stores and customers on time. Working closely with logistics partners and exploring local distribution hubs can reduce the risk of bottlenecks.

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By anticipating supply chain challenges and planning proactively, businesses and consumers can enjoy a seamless Mid-Autumn Festival. Early action, diversified sourcing, and strategic inventory management are not just best practices—they’re essential for keeping mooncakes on shelves and celebrations stress-free.

When is the Mid-Autumn Festival in China? The Mid-Autumn Festival this year falls on Monday, 6th October 2025. In mainland China, the festival is part of the National Day Golden Week, which is an 8-day public holiday from 1st to 8th October. This extended holiday period often leads to increased travel and consumer activity, contributing to potential supply chain pressures.

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