- Strategic support unlocks entrepreneurship and powers long-term economic growth
- Sacha’s Cakes, Youniform.co, and Dhaagey each reflect brand value through unique strategies
Interview with Mr. Sajid Katiya — CEO, Jazba Food Services (Pvt) Limited
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Sajid Katiya: Basically, I’m really into shaking things up in the e-commerce world. I’ve been lucky enough to get my hands dirty driving growth and trying to do things a bit differently. You know, making online shopping a better experience. I’ve been heavily involved with Youniform.co and Dhaagey, and also had a blast turning Sacha’s Cakes into a modern online brand. Honestly, I’m all about using tech to make things awesome for customers.
PAGE: Could you tell us about the success of your brand?
Sajid Katiya: The growth trajectory of our brands, particularly Sacha’s Cakes, Youniform.co, and Dhaagey, has been driven by a confluence of strategic initiatives. Firstly, we’ve prioritised adaptive innovation. For Sacha’s Cakes, this meant a thoughtful revitalisation, integrating a user-friendly cake-ordering app and a robust online platform, effectively expanding our reach and enhancing customer engagement. For Youniform.co and Dhaagey, we’ve focused on identifying and addressing specific market niches with tailored digital solutions, proving the viability of targeted e-commerce strategies. Secondly, a customer-centric philosophy has been paramount. We emphasise understanding and responding to evolving consumer needs, fostering loyalty and positive word-of-mouth which are critical drivers in the online space. Finally, we’ve pursued strategic scalability. By forging key partnerships and developing efficient operational models, we’ve been able to expand our market presence effectively.
Ultimately, our success is rooted in a dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and a strategic approach to growth within the dynamic e-commerce sector.
PAGE: What is your perspective about entrepreneurship in Pakistan?
Sajid Katiya: Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem presents a compelling mix of opportunity and challenge. We possess a young, digitally savvy population, coupled with a rapidly expanding digital infrastructure, creating a fertile ground for innovation. However, several factors warrant attention:
Access to Capital: Securing adequate funding remains a significant hurdle for nascent ventures.
Regulatory efficiency: Streamlining bureaucratic processes would significantly enhance the business environment.
Talent development: Investing in robust skill development and training programs is essential to cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial workforce.
Despite these obstacles, I maintain a strong sense of optimism regarding Pakistan’s entrepreneurial future. The inherent resilience and ingenuity of our entrepreneurs are remarkable assets. With targeted support and strategic resource allocation, we can unlock the nation’s vast entrepreneurial potential and drive sustainable economic progress.
PAGE: What must be done to encourage the youth to embrace entrepreneurship and launch new ventures?
Sajid Katiya: To embrace youth entrepreneurship in Pakistan, we need a dual approach: fostering a culture that values innovation and providing tangible support. This means integrating entrepreneurship education early on, showcasing relatable success stories, and promoting a mindset that embraces calculated risk. Simultaneously, we must streamline access to funding, simplify regulatory processes, and leverage technology to provide essential training and networking opportunities. By creating a supportive ecosystem that nurtures both mindset and practical skills, we can empower our youth to drive Pakistan’s economic future.
PAGE: How would you comment on brand value?
Sajid Katiya: In my experience, brand value is the cornerstone of lasting business success. It’s the intangible asset built on trust and genuine customer connection. At Sacha’s Cakes, we revitalized a heritage brand by prioritizing authenticity and enhancing customer experience, transforming it into a symbol of celebratory moments. With Youniform.co and Dhaagey, our focus was on deeply understanding customer needs and cultivating brand communities. Ultimately, I’ve found that brand value stems from consistent delivery and fostering meaningful relationships, turning customers into passionate advocates.