Tony Phan - CEO of Apohair

Who is Tony Phan?

CEO Phan Văn Toàn - Tony Phan — CEO & Founder of APO HAIR – Tony Phan.

Phan Van Toan (Tony Phan) is a leading expert in Vietnam’s hair manufacturing and export industry. With extensive experience in hair production processes, international trade, quality control, and business development, Tony has positioned himself as a pioneer in Vietnam’s hair export market, specializing in human hair extensions and product innovation.

Under his leadership, APO HAIR operates a 33,000m² factory with 1,000+ employees, serving 50+ countries with 20-ton monthly capacity. The company is Vietnam’s largest hair exporter with strong presence across Western Europe (30.1%), Northern Europe (22.4%), Eastern Europe (12.3%), Southern Europe (10.8%), Northern America (10.2%), Africa (8.1%), and Asia (4.0%).

Tony’s leadership focuses on three key areas: Manufacturing innovation, ethical sourcing, and quality control. He is currently expanding global private label partnerships through OEM/ODM services, developing a variety of human hair extension options, and improving existing products. His commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction drives APO HAIR’s mission – building Vietnamese brands that compete internationally while delivering value to customers and contributing to Vietnam’s economy. The company operates under the guiding principle: “Global leader in the hair industry.”

The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Industry Pioneer

The Startup Story

The mid-1990s marked a turning point in Vietnam’s hair export industry. International markets in Africa and Europe showed growing demand for quality human hair. Mr. Phan Van Toan saw this opportunity and established a professional hair processing facility in Nam Dinh city, starting with 20 workers on a modest 3-hectare (7.4-acre) site.

His vision was clear: Build a world-class Vietnamese company that could compete globally. He wanted to bring value to Vietnam’s economy through quality manufacturing – creating meaningful work that contributes to national prosperity and inspires pride. His approach emphasized ethical sourcing and premium quality as foundational principles, guided by the company slogan: “Global leader in the hair industry.”

From the start, he prioritized quality over quantity. His long-term goal was to become a regional leader before expanding globally. Market research revealed specific needs in African, European, and American markets, leading him to invest in modern processing capabilities while maintaining ethical sourcing practices. His CEO journey began 12 years ago when he recognized how high-quality hair extensions could boost confidence and enhance natural beauty.

Founding APO HAIR: Building Vietnam’s Premier Hair Export Company

Company Foundation

APO HAIR was established as APO Import Export Joint Stock Company after thorough market preparation. The company has operated for over two decades, continually refining its vision to become a leading global hair supplier. Early challenges included building credibility with international buyers unfamiliar with Vietnamese manufacturing. The strategy focused on consistent quality and transparent communication.

The company name reflects core values that guide daily operations. The slogan “Global leader in the hair industry” captures the commitment to earning customer trust through quality. Partnership means building long-term relationships with suppliers and clients, not just transactions. Optimization drives continuous improvement in manufacturing and quality standards.

Understanding diverse client needs across global markets shaped the company’s approach. APO HAIR adapted products to African, European, and American preferences through extensive development, expanding with new styles and hair care products. The company built a shared vision with wholesale partners and distributors worldwide. Investment in modern facilities and quality control raised product standards. Factory-direct pricing eliminated intermediary markups. Personalized consultations, warranties, and return policies enhanced customer satisfaction—all guided by a partnership mindset that values mutual growth.

Creating meaningful employment for 1,000+ Vietnamese workers became central to the mission. The company operates two areas: the factory and the head office in Hanoi, where 100+ sales staff bring energy and creativity to achieve results. Developing a skilled workforce in specialized hair processing contributes to Vietnam’s export economy and international reputation. Tony built a company where team members work with pride and purpose. The vision extends beyond business growth to creating positive community impact—building something worth honoring.

Overcoming Early Challenges

The early years brought significant challenges. Limited finances constrained growth from the modest 3-hectare (7.4-acre) facility with 20 workers. Vietnamese hair manufacturers had no international reputation or established client base. Established Chinese and Indian suppliers created intense competition. Inconsistent raw material supply chains posed quality control difficulties. Building trust in Vietnamese manufacturing among international buyers required persistent effort.

Tony combined meticulous product quality with responsive customer service. Each order received careful handling. Communication stayed transparent about capabilities and timelines. Through this dedication, APO HAIR gradually earned market trust and expanded year by year. By May 2019, the factory had grown to 250 employees across 10 hectares (24.7 acres). Today, the facility spans 33,000m² (355,200 sq ft) with over 1,000 skilled workers.

APO HAIR’s Milestones: Establishing Industry Leadership

Company Achievements

As of 2025, APO HAIR serves wholesale partners and distributors across 50+ countries. Western Europe accounts for 30.1% of the customer base, followed by Northern Europe (22.4%), Eastern Europe (12.3%), Southern Europe (10.8%), and Northern America (10.2%). Africa represents 8.1%, Asia 4.0%, and other regions 2.1%. The company provides full-service manufacturing—extensions, wigs, closures, and custom products—through a 33,000m² (355,200 sq ft) factory producing 20 tons monthly. The workforce of 1,000+ skilled employees specializes in hair processing and quality control. A rigorous 2-step inspection keeps returns below 1%.

Apohair global market share distribution graph — APO HAIR serves wholesale partners and distributors worldwide.

APO HAIR collaborates with leading salon chains, beauty supply distributors, and private label brands worldwide, supporting 100+ partner brands through comprehensive OEM/ODM programs. The ODM model features an in-house team of designers and product development specialists who create products based on the latest trends and market demands. The OEM model manufactures products according to client specifications and designs, sold under their brand names. As Vietnam’s largest hair exporter and trusted premium supplier, APO HAIR has helped partners grow their businesses significantly through reliable supply chains, consistent quality delivery, and professional service standards.

APO HAIR products are defined by quality, variety, customization, durability, comfort, affordability, and ethical sourcing. The main warehouse in Hanoi ships to customers in the United States, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Partnerships with hair salons and beauty supply stores enable local distribution, reaching customers in various markets both online and offline.

Tony Phan’s Leadership Impact & Industry Contributions

Professional Accomplishments

Built Vietnam’s Largest Hair Manufacturing Facility

Tony expanded operations from a 20-person workshop on 3 hectares to a 33,000m² factory with 1,000+ employees, achieving 20 tons monthly production capacity. Investment in modern technology meets international standards, serving global demand reliably while producing diverse hair products in various designs, styles, sizes, and colors.

Established Global Distribution Network Across 50+ Countries

Strong partnerships span Western Europe (30.1%), Northern Europe (22.4%), Eastern Europe (12.3%), Southern Europe (10.8%), Northern America (10.2%), Africa (8.1%), and Asia (4.0%), including the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and China. Reliable supply chains ensure consistent global delivery with a 95%+ on-time rate, building APO HAIR’s reputation among leading salons, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers worldwide.

Pioneered Manufacturing Excellence Through Meticulous Craftsmanship

Tony established meticulous production processes ensuring each hair meets exacting standards. His expertise in hair extension techniques drives APO HAIR’s success. An industry-leading 2-step inspection process using state-of-the-art technology occurs during and after production. Rigorous quality control achieved a return rate below 1%. Over 250 skilled workers create the highest quality hair products. APO HAIR set the benchmark for Vietnamese hair manufacturers.

Developed Innovation in Hair Extension Products

Tony’s hair extension expertise drives continuous innovation. APO HAIR introduces new options and improves products based on market trends and feedback. The company expanded with new styles and hair care products. Full customization includes texture, length, color, density, and packaging through OEM/ODM services, keeping APO HAIR at the forefront of product development.

Created Comprehensive OEM/ODM Manufacturing Support

APO HAIR’s private label program supports 100+ partner brands. ODM provides in-house designers creating trend-based products. OEM allows clients to supply designs while APO HAIR manufactures. Flexible minimums enable small salons and startups to launch hair extension lines. Partners receive professional manufacturing support, personalized consultations, and reliable delivery to build competitive brand identities.

Corporate Social Responsibility & Community Impact

Mission: Caring for Employees, Environment, and Communities

APO HAIR prioritizes employee care, environmental protection, and community support as core values alongside business growth.

Employees: Employee welfare and workplace safety have been top priorities since the factory opened. Through supervision, training, and education, the company develops staff while creating a strong foundation for sustainable development.
Environment: APO HAIR is committed to environmental protection and coexistence with nature. The company welcomes audits by leading certification bodies for continuous improvement.
Community Programs: APO HAIR combats child labor, provides free English education to local children, and annually contributes resources to help poor people and natural disaster victims in Vietnam. Empowering women is integral to the long-term vision.
Hair Gifting for Cancer Patients: In collaboration with the Bright Tomorrow Fund at K Hospital, APO HAIR provides high-quality wigs to female cancer patients at various hospitals. Each wig symbolizes hope and confidence for women during treatment, offering support and a sense of normalcy during their challenging journey.

Industry Presence & Trade Show Participation

Professional Engagement

Tony Phan has established APO HAIR as an active participant in the international hair and beauty industry. The company maintains a regular presence at major trade shows across multiple continents: USA (Las Vegas, New York), UK (London), Africa (Nigeria, Ghana), Brazil, and Asia. These engagements facilitate direct interaction with wholesale partners, distributors, and salon owners through the company’s extensive global distribution network.

Professional discussions at these events cover topics including sustainable sourcing practices, quality control standards, building wholesale partnerships, and navigating international trade regulations. The company shares insights on Vietnamese hair characteristics and manufacturing processes that distinguish products in global markets. The trade capacity demonstrates the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, helping establish a strong presence in the global hair industry.

APO HAIR’s Expertise Areas

Featured Topics Representing Company Specialization

Manufacturing Excellence & Quality Control APO HAIR implements a 2-step inspection process with state-of-the-art technology during and after production. With 1,000+ skilled workers, the company maintains return rates below 1%, setting industry benchmarks.
Hair Extension Innovation & Product Development Tony Phan’s expertise drives continuous innovation. The in-house team creates new products based on latest trends with full customization: texture, length, color, density, and packaging design.
OEM/ODM Manufacturing Solutions for Global Brands APO HAIR supports 100+ partner brands through comprehensive private label services. ODM features in-house designers creating trend-based products. OEM allows clients to provide designs while APO HAIR handles production. Services include consultations, design assistance, and flexible minimums.
International Trade & Global Distribution Management With partnerships across 50+ countries, APO HAIR maintains 95%+ on-time delivery rates. The Hanoi warehouse coordinates shipments to the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Distribution combines online presence with salon and beauty store partnerships.
Ethical Sourcing & Quality Assurance Standards APO HAIR delivers premium, ethically sourced extensions characterized by quality, variety, durability, comfort, affordability, and ethics. The company welcomes audits by certification bodies for continuous improvement, building trust and establishing Vietnam’s reputation for premium manufacturing.

APO HAIR’s Portfolio of Success

Client Success Stories

APO HAIR partners with clients in 50+ countries across Western Europe, Northern Europe, Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, Northern America, Africa, and Asia, offering wholesale supply, private label manufacturing, and custom product development through OEM/ODM services. Clients range from small salons to large international beauty supply chains.

Success is built on consistent quality (durable, comfortable, affordable, ethical products), 95%+ on-time delivery, and responsive service including personalized consultations, warranties, and returns. APO HAIR provides comprehensive support from consultation through fulfillment, backed by advanced manufacturing facilities and skilled workforce.