In pic: Shri. Shiv Ratan Agarwal, Deepak Agarwal
Family Values:
We are a close-knit family run business and with values such trust and integrity. We have been able to create an open workspace where ideas across the board are integrated to achieve all our goals. Our business practices reflect a strong sense of personal ownership at all levels.
Management and staff enjoy an open-door policy. At an operational level, we work more as seniors and juniors rather than boss and subordinates. Professionals from different segments have also been encouraged to be a part of this journey and help us make it a success. Values of honesty and transparency are given utmost importance.
The roles of Family Members:
In my early days I was supported by my wife and now by my son who is going to be my successor and he has been spearheading the marketing and helped us foray into modern snacks. However, I have always considered my core team as a family. I have also therefore enjoyed their loyalties and dedication as an elder head of the family.
The Changing Perception of Young Generation
Over the last decade the industry has evolved and many new players and youngsters have joined the bandwagon, bringing newer products formats and marketing techniques, which has helped the industry to grow further.
Their exposure and formal training have helped introduce many new systems towards automation and professionalism in the industry. Also, traditionally, we focused on manufacturing alone. The newer generation is sharp and innovative with their marketing focus. That’s where a product has now evolved into a brand.
The role of Modern Techniques & Automation
Bikaji has been known for bringing forth a different dimension towards product and packaging. The youth today is always exploring innovative formats across products. With use of global automation practices, we have been able to bring forth consistency and superior product quality. We now have a range of new products such as frozen and ready-to-eat foods which are a result of technology innovation.
Lockdown Consequences
The pandemic made us realize that consumers have great faith in packaged sweets and namkeens. Also, it has made us push ourselves further to ensure product availability across all channels i.e. e-commerce, modern trade and retail trade. Maintaining a website, mobile app and using social media as a marketing channel is something that has picked up pace in the last six months. And we see promising results coming from these new avenues in the future.
Growth in Diwali & Sales of Gift Hampers
This festive season our focus has been to Unlock Gifting. With the effect of the pandemic we have ensured that though our digital channels and direct to home delivery models, consumers continue gifting their loved ones. Corporate gifting has taken a backseat to a certain extent due to the restrictions on festive gatherings. But there is a certain surge in the reliance on packed and hygienic foods. And we hope this trend only grows into a habit.