Shashi Kumar, the Founder & CEO of Akshayakalpa, has had a unique journey in building a market for organic products, one that reflects both perseverance and a deep commitment to trust-building. In his recent LinkedIn post, Shashi Kumar shared valuable insights into the challenges and successes of growing a product market, offering a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts that have shaped Akshayakalpa’s success.
Shashi Kumar’s approach to market-building was not based on theoretical knowledge but on practical experience. When asked how to build a market, his answer was simple: “I don’t know, but some things worked for us, and we are lucky.” His candidness highlights the reality of entrepreneurship—there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. What worked for Shashi Kumar and Akshayakalpa was a blend of market pull and trusted distribution partners. This balance enabled the brand to grow steadily from its humble beginnings in 2010.
Building strong relationships with distribution partners was a significant challenge in the early days. As Shashi Kumar recalls, there were no shortcuts. Akshayakalpa lacked financial resources, so the focus was on trust-building. Shashi Kumar and his team took the time to visit retailers and consumers, encouraging them to engage with the farmers who produced the organic food. This hands-on approach allowed them to showcase the value and authenticity of Akshayakalpa’s products.
One of the key moments in Akshayakalpa’s growth story was its partnership with Srinath, who became a distribution partner in 2012. Initially, Srinath served as an organic milk distribution agent, but his role expanded over time. Today, he is a full-fledged FMCG distributor, handling products worth Rs. 15 lakhs per month in Jayanagar. Shashi Kumar notes that this success is not just about business; it’s about the pull for Akshayakalpa products from both retailers and consumers. Srinath’s growing confidence in the brand illustrates how trust and mutual growth can drive business success.
Shashi Kumar’s leadership has shown that building a market is a gradual process. It requires continuous investment in relationships with consumers, retailers, and distributors. His persistence and dedication have not only grown Akshayakalpa but have also cultivated a network of partners who believe in the vision of organic food and sustainable farming.
As Shashi Kumar looks toward expanding Akshayakalpa’s reach, the company is actively seeking distributors across major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Mumbai. Shashi Kumar’s story is a reminder that success in business doesn’t happen overnight; it’s the result of years of trust-building, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to growth.
