10 Questions
What's the strangest customer request you've ever received?
FS: The strangest request came from a few customers in Japan; they wanted us to make kangaroo leather shoes!
How competitive is your industry, and how are you staying ahead of the competition?
FS: Our industry is very competitive, and we often face rising costs. The only way to stay ahead of the competition is by value addition and providing products at the right time. We are on the forefront of both.
In your opinion, what's the secret to high-quality fashion?
FS: I think the most important thing when it comes to high-quality fashion is to customize your products to the customers' needs, while providing high-quality materials at competitive prices.
You work with designers and fashion consultants in the United Kingdom, Italy and France. How do you stay updated on the trends?
FS: We have fashion consultants in Paris, France, and London, England, who share information on new trends. We also have talented Pakistani designers who provide the latest designs with a Pakistani touch.
What's your favorite item out of your collection?
FS: It's a tie between faux crocodile leather and deer leather.
How are you giving back to your community?
FS: We run two charitable trusts in Pakistan. One focuses on providing education and medical services to people throughout our nation, and the other is a trust in memory of my mother. We're building a vocational training institute for women. This is very close to my heart because it means that more women will be financially independent. It's important that we give back to our community so that our country can continue to grow and prosper.
What do you like best about being an entrepreneur?
FS: I like that I can make decisions on my own and do what I'm passionate about.
What's the biggest challenge you face as an entrepreneur?
FS: Customer engagement is an ongoing challenge, as many clients don't want to visit Pakistan due to their misconceptions about our nation. However, when I do convince them to visit, they are pleasantly surprised and look forward to returning.
What are you doing when you're not working?
FS: I'm spending time with my family. Also, I love travelling, so I'm usually on the go if I'm not with them.
What's been your favorite part of EO so far?
FS: Meeting and learning from my peers, all of whom face similar situations on a daily basis.
