Vandita Tewari Kapoor: Winner of the 2024 Great Companies International Women Entrepreneur Award

Name: Vandita Tewari Kapoor

Business Name: Iyurved

Location: Bangalore , India

Establishment (Year): 2020

Category: Health & Wellness

Profession/ Specialty: Health- Nutraceutical

Website: www.iyurved.com

Social Media : LinkedIn

Company Detail:

Iyurved is an innovative functional food brand specializing in specially designed food formulas providing nutritional support to children and young adults, supporting various health benefits. Their focus on special nutritional requirements makes them the first-of-its-kind food company to do so. Backed by extensive R&D, supported by Ayurveda and nutritional sciences, they cater to special nutritional needs for children with speech delay, autism, ADHD, stammering, sleep disorders, constipation, seasonal allergies, frequent illness, and other common health concerns.

Iyurved has built a dedicated research and development team that formulates all their food products meticulously. These formulations are based on the timeless teachings of Ayurveda and supported by scientific research, allowing them to deliver effective solutions addressing a wide range of health concerns worldwide. Through their innovative and transformative approach, Iyurved is making a significant impact in the field of healthcare, ensuring that children receive the nourishment they need to thrive and lead healthy lives.

It's one of the fastest-growing profitable companies in the segment, backed by a loyal customer base who are also their biggest supporters, promoters, and ambassadors, making it sustainable and scalable.

Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage:

Iyurved's Unique Selling Proposition (USP) lies in its pioneering position as the first-of-its-kind in the world, with innovation at the core of the brand. The brand capitalizes on the acknowledged importance and credibility of Ayurvedic herbs and real food, which have been scientifically proven over generations. Their significant innovation lies in the precise combination of these ingredients in optimal quantities, with appropriate partner nutrients, and in formats facilitating optimal absorption within the body. Each product is tailored to address specific nutritional requirements, necessitating continuous innovation and research and development (R&D) efforts.

The success of Iyurved is substantiated by numerous testimonials from satisfied customers, reflecting the transformative impact of their nutraceutical products on various aspects of health and well-being. From improved focus, speech, memory, weight, height, gut health, eye health, to enhanced immunity, their formulations have received praise from thousands of parents.

Iyurved takes pride in positively impacting the lives of over 300,000 kids and teens in a short period, leveraging scientifically researched products made from traditional ingredients. Their products fulfill special nutritional requirements crucial for addressing developmental issues such as speech impediments, ADHD, weight management, sleep problems, and digestive issues, among others. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation differentiates it from competitors and drives its continued growth and success.

With an astounding 100% growth over the last year, Iyurved demonstrates the effectiveness of its products and commitment to providing healthy solutions to customers. A commendable 30% repeat rate underscores the trust customers place in the brand, contributing not only to profitability but also sustaining long-term business growth. By maintaining a modest 5% return to origin (RTO) rate, Iyurved emphasizes its dedication to delivering high-quality products and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Furthermore, the brand's achievements include securing a 4.25% market share on Amazon, even in the Spreads category, and earning the #4 spot in the launchpad grocery segment. These efforts and accomplishments set Iyurved apart from its competition, reinforcing its position as a leader in the health and wellness industry.

Challenges Faced During the Journey:

Every business faces constant challenges, but at Iyurved, they speak to experts and keep trying. Taking calculated risks and building a strong network with other players in the industry have been crucial. Vandita is part of several startup founder cohorts that offer guidance as needed. By keeping the fundamentals of the business right - connecting with consumers regularly, conducting deep R&D, building a strong and dependable team, and never compromising on product quality or service - no problem is too difficult to solve.

Challenges related to product delivery were addressed by tying up with local delivery partners, ensuring customer satisfaction remains the priority. Early challenges with poor packaging were resolved by consulting packing experts, demonstrating their readiness to overcome obstacles and come back stronger.

Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:

"Just start with your idea and get going," says Vandita. While obstacles may arise every day, overcoming them will strengthen you for the challenges ahead. By the end of the first year, you'll emerge as a changed person with added strength, optimism, and clarity. Women possess exceptional multitasking skills, and leveraging their network, family, or friends for support is essential.