In an exclusive interview with Indian Startup Times, Mitresh Sharma, Founder of First Bud Organics, shared his journey from digital marketing to the organic products market. He discovered his first product, Tulsi Green Tea, through local farmers in Uttarakhand. First, Bud’s product range expanded to include Pahadi Honey, Lakadong Turmeric, and Naga Ginger Powder. Mitresh emphasized direct sourcing from farmers to ensure quality and authenticity. Despite facing financial challenges and the impact of COVID-19, First Bud’s turnover is growing, with plans for international expansion and increased brand awareness. Mitresh’s passion for organic products and sustainability drives his vision for the future.
Raamesh Chandra (RC): Tell us your background and how you started First Bud Organics.
Mitresh Sharma (MS): My journey began in digital marketing, where I worked for a South Korean agency. When the agency closed its Indian branch, I saw an opportunity to start my venture. I founded a marketing agency in Delhi that focused on local clients. The idea to start First Bud came when I realized I needed a physical product to sell online. After some research, I decided to sell T-shirts and clothing on Amazon. However, I needed to gain knowledge about the quality of apparel. I then visited Dehradun, where I had connections, and met NGOs working with organic products. I got a list of over 100 farmers who are doing organic cultivation and visiting their farms. This is how I found my first product, Tulsi Green Tea, cultivated in Kaleshwar near Badrinath and Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.
RC: What inspired you to focus on organic products?
MS: I realized the importance of quality and authenticity in products. This led me to explore organic farming in Uttarakhand, where I discovered a rich tradition. I started sourcing high-quality ingredients from local farmers and began with Tulsi Green Tea from Badrinath.
RC: How has First Bud Organics’ product range evolved, and what new products have been introduced?
MS: We initially started with teas and later expanded to include Pahadi Honey from Uttarakhand, which became a bestseller. We then introduced premium spices like Lakadong Turmeric from Meghalaya and Naga Ginger Powder from Nagaland. These products, known for their high curcumin and gingerol content, have been well-received.
RC: What measures do you take to ensure the quality and authenticity of your products, especially when sourcing from local farmers?
MS: We procure directly from farmers, ensuring organic certification and quality testing. For example, our Lakadong Turmeric has a high curcumin content, which has been verified through lab tests. We maintain close relationships with our sourcing network, ensuring fair prices and quality standards.
RC: What significant challenges have you faced as an entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?
MS: Like many entrepreneurs, I faced financial challenges in the early stages. I had to shut down my first venture and start from scratch. Patience and adaptability have been key. Also, the disruption caused by COVID-19 affected our operations, but we managed to adapt and maintain our business.
RC: What was First Bud Organics’ turnover in the year following the impact of COVID-19, and what are the projected turnovers for the current and upcoming years?
MS: Following the impact of COVID-19, First Bud Organics’ turnover was around 70-80 lakhs. We anticipate a turnover of around 2-2.5 crores for the current year. We aim to achieve around 5-10 crore turnovers in the upcoming years.
RC: What are your plans for First Bud Organics?
MS: We plan to expand into modern retail outlets and international markets, which includes expanding our product range, cracking modern retail outlets, and entering global markets like Dubai, Europe, and the US. We also plan to increase awareness about our brand and products through marketing campaigns and educational content.
RC: What message are you sending to consumers seeking healthier choices?
MS: Choose organic. By supporting First Bud Organics, you get high-quality products and contribute to a sustainable and ethical ecosystem.
RC: What drives your passion for organic products and sustainable living?
MS: I believe in the power of organic products to improve health and well-being. I am also passionate about supporting local farmers and communities.
RC: How do you see the organic market evolving in the future?
MS: The organic market will continue to grow as more people become aware of the benefits of organic products. Consumer education and feedback will be key drivers of this growth.
RC: What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to enter the organic and sustainable products market?
MS: I advise starting with a clear vision and a passion for your product. Focus on quality and authenticity and build solid relationships with suppliers and customers. Be prepared for challenges, but stay committed to your goals; success will follow.
