Being a successful entrepreneur is not everyone’s cup of tea! Whether you're in the early stages of establishing your startup, just secured funding for your dream idea, or are ready for product launch, there will always be ups and downs and challenging phases that will test your resolve. Pankaj Nahata, co-founder of Wings Lifestyles, that manufactures & retails women’s wear under the brand name ‘Suti’, has proven that all challenges can be overcome through hard work, positive attitude and perseverance.

Pankaj believes that success for an entrepreneur starts with a grand vision. Over the past 15 years, he has grown from being a garment exporter to a leading retailer of high quality women’s casual wear, and has carved a niche for himself in the Indian garment industry. Suti is fast becoming a popular brand for women’s wear, with several retail stores across India.

In conversation with GlobalLinker (GL), Pankaj Nahata (PN) shares the successful journey of his venture. Watch this video to learn more about this enterprising entrepreneur from Jaipur.

GL: Tell us about your business and how it came into being.

PN: We started with a fabrication unit way back in 1999. Basically, we used to export garments to America and other European countries. In 2012, we decided to switch to domestic production & retail, and in 2013, we started manufacturing under our own brand name ‘Suti’.

While we started our business on rental premises, we now have our own factory, providing employment to 500 workers.

My elder brother, Pawan Nahata, who is the co-founder of the company, has been instrumental in developing the business, guiding and supporting me at every step. He looks after the finances and other administrative work of the company, while I look after the production and overall design aspect of the business. One of our partners, Sachin Jakhetia manages the retail department.

GL: What is the USP of Suti?

PN: Suti is the only women's wear brand in India with its own in-house manufacturing unit, including the dyeing and printing processes. We have a dedicated team that carefully ensures that we manufacture the best quality product. For us, maintaining high quality standards is our top-most priority. We pride ourselves in using the best quality raw materials, printing and designing. We focus on customer satisfaction and catering to the evolving tastes of our patrons. What differentiates Suti from other brands is our high quality, affordable pricing and wide range of designs.

GL: What are some of the challenges you have faced in establishing your business?

PN: In a city like Jaipur, which has many renowned garment units, we faced tough competition in the market. But our good knowledge of clothing due to our export business really helped us in creating a niche brand. Slowly and steadily, we have developed a loyal clientele, establishing a successful brand despite the initial startup hurdles.

GL: What keeps you motivated?

PN: Starting with a small unit, we have built Suti into a big venture, with a large factory and a vast team of designers, merchandisers and producers who work with sheer diligence and utmost patience. We are currently running six stores and plan to open more outlets soon. Our family is very proud of us and every now and then they guide us and give us valuable inputs. To be an integral part of this growing business keeps us motivated and inspires us to achieve greater success.

GL: How important do you think GlobalLinker is in assisting SMEs?

PN:  I believe that GlobalLinker is a good platform for businesses like us, and will surely help in expanding our brand globally. Moreover, it gives a whole lot of exposure to SMEs. Ever since we joined GlobalLinker, we’ve got many opportunities of growing our franchises.

GL: What is your big business dream?

PN: We want to see Suti reach its peak as an Indian brand. We are about to open our retail stores in Hyderabad, Pune and Bangalore, and by the end of the year we plan to see Suti in all major cities in India. We are working really hard to develop and enhance our brand. We want to give more to our customers as we believe that a satisfied customer is a happy customer.

GL: What would your advice be for an aspiring entrepreneur?

PN: My advice to any entrepreneur would be - one should remain stable and composed in accomplishing their dream. Confidently overcome hurdles and never give up. Always keep customer satisfaction as top priority.

Disclaimer: This article is based solely on the inputs shared by the featured member. GlobalLinker does not necessarily endorse the views, opinions & facts stated by the member.