Interviewer-- What made you think of setting up a company providing all features of branding products and customizing gifts?
Anant Mukim- Prior to Blurb Box, I was running Belzack Creatives, providing services such as design and photography to companies. While working with brands on their design requirements, we realised that we were feeding very critical activities for companies – their product packaging and also their merchandising campaigns. Realizing the depth of the opportunity, my co-founder and I decided to explore the commercial printing and promotional merchandising industry in 2013, and we haven’t looked back since.
Interviewer- How did you manage to establish yourself in this competitive field?
Anant Mukim- Our single point of focus has been our customer and we have always emphasised on providing quality service and great products. Instead of providing standard products to every company in the market, we have consciously worked on creating deep relationships with select clients. This has allowed us to closely partner with our clients on tackling their merchandising problems, and focus on providing engaging and memorable experiences for their consumers.
Interviewer- What struggles did you face initially to take your company to next level?
Anant Mukim- Initially, it was tough to convince large brands to work with a young company claiming to provide the best service in the industry. We found it difficult to get our foot in the door and faced several rejections. Gradually, by sticking to our promise of quality and honesty, we were able to build a strong client roster which now includes companies such as Unilever, Red Bull and Diageo.
Interviewer- Do you have any plans expanding your company?
Anant Mukim- Absolutely. We have been growing organically and responsibly to ensure that we never lose sight of our primary purpose – focus on quality service for the customer. We have grown to a 14-member team, and are adding more employees and clients every year. Over the next two to three years, we aim to integrate full-fledged design services to become a holistic design and production agency, and provide end-to-end services for our clients.
Interviewer-- What suggestions would you like to give to the young budding entrepreneurs?
Anant Mukim- While developing your product and growing your company, do not just focus on your product, but rather focus on how the product changes the lives of your customers. Always focus on the customer and everything else will fall in place around it. Also, do not worry about money and success, just enjoy the journey! After all, business is like a rollercoaster – it is not about reaching the destination, but about enjoying the ride.