Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Umar Ahmed, Founder of Twiggy Fresh, located in Dallas, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are Twiggy Fresh. Twiggy Fresh is a sustainable oral care brand. We pride ourselves on offering premium and sustainable products that align with our customer's values.
Tell us about yourself
After many years in the corporate world, in 2018, I started Twiggy Fresh. The reason behind the business idea is growing up, I used to brush my teeth with Miswak. Miswak is a natural twig that is used in many parts of the world. I have also learned about the negative impact of plastic toothbrushes on the environment. Billions of plastic toothbrushes end up in landfills and in the ocean every year. In the US alone, an estimated ONE Billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away every year.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest accomplishment is helping our customers live healthier lives while protecting our planet for future generations. We often don't think much of the environmental impact of brushing. The biggest players in the oral care industry flood the market with cheap plastic toothbrushes to make huge profits. However, as a small company, we put people and the planet before profit. Our toothbrushes are not only sustainable but are BPA-free. BPA stands for bisphenol A, an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Running a small business is very tough because you are responsible for everything, and you have limited resources like capital, employees, etc. However, you can be smart about how to use the limited resources effectively. Having said that, there are other barriers or red tape that can be an obstacle to grow your business. For instance, if you are a minority or woman-owned business, you may not get the funding you need or other opportunities to scale the business. I believe dealing with external factors like getting capital etc., are some of the hardest things that entrepreneurs may face.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a clear vision/goal that you want to accomplish.
- Treat your customers with respect.
- Take care of yourself. Remember, business is like running a marathon; there is no shortcut to reaching your dream.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://twiggyfresh.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twiggyfreshsmile/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twiggy.fresh/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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