A BUSINESS PLAN SUBMITTED TO

THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

ON STARTING AND BUILDING A
BUSINESS
HANDLOOM SAREES

By: Tanisha Singh

BCOM(HONS) 1St Semester
Roll:29
Submission Date: 18/11/23

NORTH BENGAL ST. XAVIERS COLLEGE

RAIGANJ CAMPUS
THREAD INTRODUCTION
TALES As the proud owner of this venture, we bring a touch of tradition and
artistry to the world of fashion. Our business embodies the rich cultural
heritage of handloom craftsmanship, showcasing the timeless beauty of
sarees woven with skill and dedication. Each handloom saree tells a unique
story, blending the expertise of skilled artisans with the vibrant hues of
quality threads. By offering these exquisite pieces, your business not only
contributes to the preservation of age-old weaving techniques but also
provides customers with a chance to adorn themselves in elegant, one-of-a-
kind garments. Whether it's the intricate patterns, the soft textures, or the
vibrant colors, your handloom sarees are sure to capture the hearts of those
who appreciate the beauty of traditional craftsmanship. Welcome to a
world where every saree is a masterpiece, and your business stands as a
beacon of artistry and sophistication.

WEAVING ELEGANCE
CRAFTING TRADITION
PROBLEMS
Competition: The handloom saree market can be competitive. To stand out, you'll need a unique selling proposition,
whether it's in terms of design, quality, or customer service
Artisan Availability: Depending on the region and type of handloom sarees you're focusing on, finding skilled artisans
might be a challenge. Building strong relationships with weavers is crucial for the success of your business.

Quality Control: Ensuring consistent quality in handloom products can be challenging due to the manual nature of the
weaving process. Implementing rigorous quality control measures is essential to maintain customer satisfaction.

Supply Chain Management: Managing the supply chain for sourcing raw materials, such as high-quality threads, and
ensuring a steady supply of finished products can be complex, particularly if you're working with multiple artisans or
suppliers.

Marketing and Branding: Effectively marketing handloom sarees to a target audience requires a well-thought-out strategy.
Creating a strong brand presence through online and offline channels is essential for attracting customers.

E-commerce Challenges: If you plan to sell online, navigating the complexities of e-commerce, including setting up a user-
friendly website, managing online transactions, and ensuring timely and secure delivery, can be challenging.
SOLUTIONS

• Unique Value Proposition (UVP): Clearly define what sets your handloom sarees apart, whether it's exclusive designs, high-quality
materials, or a compelling brand story.
• Market Research: Understand your target audience and tailor your offerings to meet their preferences and needs.
• Build Relationships: Establish strong connections with local artisans. Regular communication and fair compensation can foster long-term
partnerships.
• Training Programs: Invest in training programs to enhance the skills of artisans and ensure they meet your quality standards.
• Stringent Quality Checks: Implement rigorous quality control processes at different stages of production to maintain consistency.
• Feedback Loop: Encourage open communication with artisans to address any quality concerns promptly.
• User-Friendly Website: Invest in a user-friendly and secure e-commerce platform. Ensure a smooth shopping experience for customers.
• Logistics Partnerships: Partner with reliable logistics companies to handle shipping and delivery efficiently.
 TARGET MARKET
Determining our target market for handloom sarees involves understanding the demographics, preferences, and behaviors of potential customers. While
individual preferences can vary, here's a general overview of a target market with age groups for handloom sarees:
• Age Group: 25-45 Years Old:
• This segment often includes working professionals and young mothers who appreciate the blend of tradition and contemporary style.
• They might be looking for versatile handloom sarees suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
• Age Group: 45 and Above:
• This demographic may be more inclined towards traditional handloom sarees with classic designs and rich color palettes.
• They might value the cultural and heritage aspects of handloom weaving.
• Young Adults (18-24):
• This group is increasingly interested in unique fashion choices, and handloom sarees can be positioned as a distinctive and sustainable option.
• Consider offering modern designs or collaborating with influencers to appeal to this segment.
• Special Occasion Shoppers (All Ages):
• Target individuals looking for handloom sarees for special events such as weddings, festivals, or celebrations.
• Emphasize the exclusivity and craftsmanship of your sarees for these significant occasions.
• Global Market:
• Consider reaching out to a global market, especially if your handloom sarees showcase regional or cultural diversity.
• Online platforms can help you connect with international customers who appreciate traditional craftsmanship.
COMPETITORS
Local Handloom Saree Boutiques:
1 • Other local businesses specializing in handloom sarees in your region.
• These could range from small family-owned boutiques to larger, established stores.

Online Handloom Saree Retailers:

2 • E-commerce platforms that focus on handloom sarees, catering to a broader market.
• Examples include platforms that connect weavers directly with customers.

Traditional Textile Retailers:

3 • Brick-and-mortar stores or online platforms that offer a variety of traditional textiles, including handloom sarees.
• Established retailers may have a loyal customer base.

Ethnic Wear Brands:

4 • Larger brands specializing in ethnic wear that include handloom sarees in their product lines.
• These brands may have a broader range of products and marketing resources.

Custom Handloom Saree Designers:

5 • Individual designers or small businesses that create custom handloom sarees.
• They might attract customers looking for unique, personalized designs.

Artisanal and Sustainable Fashion Brands:

6 • Brands that focus on sustainable and handmade products, including handloom sarees.
• They may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
WHY US?
Choosing our handloom saree business over competitors should be an easy decision for potential customers. To
effectively communicate "why us," focus on your unique selling points and the value you bring to customers. Here are
some aspects you can highlight:

• Exquisite Craftsmanship:
• Emphasize the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of your handloom sarees, showcasing the
skill and dedication of the artisans involved in the weaving process.
• Exclusive Designs:
• Highlight the uniqueness of your designs, whether they're traditional patterns with a modern
twist or entirely contemporary creations. Make it clear that your sarees are not mass-produced.
• Customization Options:
• Stand out by offering customization services, allowing customers to create bespoke handloom
sarees tailored to their preferences.
• Direct Weaver Connections:
• Build trust by emphasizing your direct connections with skilled weavers. Explain how your
business supports and empowers these artisans, contributing to the preservation of traditional
handloom techniques.
• Sustainability and Ethical Practices:
• Communicate your commitment to sustainability and ethical practices in sourcing materials
and production. Highlight eco-friendly initiatives and fair trade principles.
• Customer-Centric Services:
• Showcase the various customer services you offer, such as virtual consultations, saree styling
guidance, and educational content to enhance the overall customer experience.
 • E-commerce Website:
• Develop a user-friendly and visually appealing e-commerce
website to showcase your handloom sarees. Include high-quality
images, detailed product descriptions, and an easy checkout
process.
• Online Marketplaces:
• List your handloom sarees on popular online marketplaces such as

SALES CHANNELS
Amazon, Etsy, or other regional platforms. This can expose your
products to a wider audience and leverage the existing customer
base of these platforms.
• Social Media Platforms:
• Utilize social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest,
and Twitter to showcase your handloom sarees. Leverage these
platforms for marketing, engagement, and direct sales.
• Physical Store:
• If feasible, establish a physical store to provide customers with a
tactile and immersive shopping experience. Ensure that the store's
ambiance aligns with the cultural and artistic essence of your
handloom sarees.
• Pop-Up Shops and Exhibitions:
• Participate in local or regional exhibitions, pop-up shops, or
artisan markets to connect with customers directly. These events
can also help you build brand awareness.
• Collaborations with Retailers:
• Explore partnerships with established retailers or boutiques that
align with your brand. This can help you reach new customer
segments and benefit from the retailer's existing customer base.
 REVENUE
Determining the revenue of our handloom saree business depends on various factors, including the
pricing strategy, sales volume, production costs, and the effectiveness of your marketing and sales
efforts. Here's a simplified formula to estimate revenue:
Revenue=Number of Units Sold×Average Selling Price per UnitRevenue=Number of Units
Sold×Average Selling Price per Unit
Factors to Consider:

• Pricing Strategy:
• Set competitive yet profitable prices. Consider factors such as production costs, market demand, and perceived value.
• Sales Volume:
• Estimate the number of handloom sarees you expect to sell within a specific timeframe. This depends on your marketing efforts, customer reach, and the appeal of your products.
• Product Mix:
• If you offer different types of handloom sarees with varying price points, consider the sales distribution among these categories.
• Marketing and Promotion:
• The effectiveness of your marketing campaigns, promotions, and brand awareness efforts will impact your sales volume.
• Production Costs:
• Consider the costs associated with sourcing materials, labor, and other production expenses.
• Operating Expenses:
• Account for general operating expenses such as rent, utilities, marketing costs, and any fees associated with online platforms or marketplaces.
KEY TEAM AND ROLES

Building a strong and capable team is crucial for the success of our handloom
saree business. The key team members and their roles may include:

1. Founder/Owner:
1. Provides overall vision and strategic direction for the business.
2. Manages key relationships, including those with artisans, suppliers, and potential collaborators.
2. Operations Manager:
1. Oversees day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth production, inventory management, and order fulfillment.
2. Manages the supply chain, from sourcing materials to delivering finished products.
3. Creative Director/Designer:
1. Leads the design and creative aspects of the handloom saree collections.
2. Collaborates with artisans to develop unique and appealing designs.
3. Ensures that the designs align with market trends and customer preferences.
4. Marketing and Branding Specialist:
1. Develops and executes marketing strategies to promote the brand and products.
2. Manages online and offline marketing channels, including social media, advertising, and collaborations.
3. Focuses on building a strong brand presence and increasing market visibility.
5. Sales Manager:
1. Drives sales growth through effective sales strategies and customer engagement.
2. Manages sales channels, including the e-commerce website, online marketplaces, and collaborations with retailers.
3. Analyzes sales data to identify opportunities for growth.
6. Customer Experience Specialist:
1. Focuses on providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a positive customer experience.
2. Manages customer inquiries, feedback, and resolves issues promptly.
3. Implements customer loyalty programs and initiatives.