Youth-led ventures that thrived during the pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic took the entire world by surprise, and shook businesses from variegated industries to the core. Amidst a great number of startups and other ventures suffering during the pandemic, new methods had to be employed to keep things afloat.
In a country riddled with the challenge of coping up with Covid-19's ever-increasing cases, it was out of the question whether a new entrepreneurial ecosystem would burgeon. However, a few young entrepreneurs caught the eye with their dedication and smart strategies, showing propitious growth. Although some of them are operating for quite some time now, their recent performances during the pandemic were inspiring.
Aadi is a unique fashion-focused cross border e-commerce platform that has served in 29 countries and 413 destinations. In 2020, the company achieved a 159 percent year-on-year growth in revenue, and 460 percent year-on-year growth in order numbers. With more than 12,000 registered customers, over 4,000 orders and esteemed partners and collaborators like EBL, Brac Bank and City Bank, Aadi is making a huge impact in the international arena.
Fatima Begum, the CEO of the company, shared the vision that drives Aadi. "The world knows about our capacity and expertise in the RMG sector. However, in the global market, we still do not have any recognisable brand," she says.
"Through Aadi, we aim to establish reputed Bangladeshi international brands that will rival the popularity of brands like Gucci, Hermes and Prada. One day, people will know Bangladesh through our international brands. We have just initiated our journey by establishing Aadi and testing the market. At present, the RMG sector of Bangladesh is heavily dependent on foreign buyers. We want to make the RMG sector independent by reaching the end consumers directly through our cross border platform."
During the pandemic, shopping malls closed in a hurry, and they stayed that way for quite a while. Aadi decided to keep their employees safe and did not let anyone go to cut costs. Rather, they went for recruitment in their tech department.
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https://www.thedailystar.net/supplements/30th-anniversary-supplements/agents-change/news/youth-led-ventures-thrived-during-the-pandemic-2044985?amp