Nikita Thakkar, 29, Founder and CEO of Entisi Chocolatier, shares the efforts being taken to make a chocolate brand Indians would be proud to call their own
Q. What were the challenges when you started this venture?
The biggest challenge is to be able to match the advertising dollars of big giant confectionary brands like Lindt’s and Ferrero’s. Making people aware of éntisi and being easily accessible is a challenge.
Q. What exactly is your business model and how did you project your product in the market?
I am determined to bring éntisi to the world stage and show the global community, that besides software and satellites, India can produce some great chocolates as well. Our business model involves 3 sides: we are into making of gourmet handcrafted chocolates available in our store, corporate gifting and contract manufacturing for other brands.
Q. What convinces your customers to consider your product for gifting?
Every visit to our boutique is a trip to discover sophistication, handmade artistry, etc. There are two things that set us apart: our size and our understanding of flavor and palate.
To bring éntisi to the world stage and show the global community, that besides software and satellites, India can produce some great chocolates as well
Q. What initiatives are you taking to make your chocolate brand from India a global brand?
Our target is not to cater to all the people, but to all the needs of the people, we cater to. We are in discussion to begin exports to Nairobi and Dubai. In 5 years, we would be the nations preferred chocolatier and a brand Indians are proud to call their own.
Q. What advice would you like to give the budding entrepreneurs?
If you see the potential to create a business, and if you’re sure that the business model has longevity, I would encourage you to go for it. If you can only devote some of your time to the business and be absent during a crisis it could prove disastrous. It needs your complete involvement and commitment at the outset. Have your first order from someone willing to pay for your product. As all you need is the cash to produce the product or service. This will reduce the risk profile of the venture drastically.
