My journey as an entrepreneur began in a small village nestled in the bustling state of Madhya Pradesh. Here, amidst the simplicity and vibrancy of village life, I took my first steps into the business world.
Despite my background as a company secretary, it was the creative and transformative potential of paints that captivated me. I was inspired to innovate and renovate, leading me to choose the paint industry for my entrepreneurial venture. The idea of crafting a product that could creatively transform spaces and contribute to people’s lives was compelling. Thus, I founded STM Paints with a mission to offer eco-friendly and high-quality paint solutions, aligning with my passion for creativity and innovation.
It all began when the pandemic struck in 2021. The challenges it brought made me reassess my professional path. With the unwavering support of my husband, an MSME consultant, STM Paints was born.
We had set up a manufacturing unit, overcoming the initial hurdles of starting a business in the competitive paint industry.
Our 2000 square feet facility became a hub of creativity and hard work, supported by a team of 12 dedicated employees. We focused on local markets within a 200-kilometer radius, building a strong foundation for what was to come.
The real turning point came when I joined the Walmart Vriddhi program in 2021. This program wasn’t just a training course; it was a gateway to a world of possibilities I hadn’t imagined. Walmart Vriddhi equipped me with invaluable skills in marketing, production, and online business strategies. It helped me transform STM Paints from a local business into a brand with a growing online presence, featured on eCommerce platforms like Flipkart. Our team, divided across production, marketing, and administration, worked tirelessly to ensure the quality and efficacy of our products.
Embracing the online world marked a new chapter in our story, bringing our local brand to a wider audience. The transition to online sales was a success, significantly boosting our visibility and sales. This blend of traditional and digital marketing strategies was instrumental in carving our niche in the market.
Our venture’s online presence skyrocketed, translating into tangible success. Within just eight months of leveraging online platforms, our sales surged, marking a significant leap from local dominance to online visibility. My business experienced a remarkable 40% increase, a testament to the transformative power of digital expansion. This strategic shift proved to be a game-changer, significantly amplifying both our market reach and revenue streams.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been the positive impact on our community. By providing employment and eco-friendly products, we’re contributing to the local economy and environment. The growth of STM Paints isn’t just a business success; it’s a story of community empowerment.
Community empowerment has been achieved through our engagement with local shopkeepers and dealers. We have established connections with many shops, focusing on hardware stores that sell our products. This approach not only supports small business owners but also ensures our eco-friendly paints are accessible to a wider community. By integrating our production with local businesses, we’re fostering a network that bolsters the local economy and enhances community ties.
Looking ahead, the future is vibrant. With continued support from Walmart Vriddhi, we plan to expand our product range and reach. Our aim is to not just be a local name, but a brand recognized across India.
To fellow women entrepreneurs who are hesitant to take the leap, my message is simple: Believe in your dreams. The journey might be challenging, but with programs like Walmart Vriddhi and a supportive community, anything is possible. I started STM Paints with a vision, and today, thanks to Walmart Vriddhi, that vision is becoming a reality.
