By Sandhya Bharti, Deputy Editor, Indian Startup Times
Introduction
Menstrual hygiene is a topic that has long been surrounded by stigma and limited product options. Recognizing the challenges faced by women, especially the lack of alternatives to conventional sanitary pads, Sourav Chakrabarty, Kiriti Acharjee, and Satyajit Chakraborty founded HealthFab. Their mission was clear: to revolutionize menstrual hygiene with innovative and sustainable products tailored to women’s needs.
Since its inception, HealthFab has made significant strides with products like Period Panties and Ayurvedic Pain Relief Creams. Their journey from premium offerings to affordable solutions has been driven by customer feedback, paving the way for continuous product enhancement and market expansion.
In an exclusive interview with Indian Startup Times, Sourav, Kiriti and Satyajit discussed their entrepreneurial journey, challenges faced, and vision for HealthFab‘s future.
HealthFab‘s Genesis and Mission
The story of HealthFab began when the founders noticed menstrual hygiene challenges within their own families. This personal experience inspired them to address a significant market gap: the lack of alternatives to traditional sanitary pads. Sourav explained, “We realized that women needed more comfortable and eco-friendly options, especially for those with high bleeding rates. Our vision was to provide safe and sustainable menstrual products tailored to various needs.”
The founders initially focused on premium offerings but soon adapted to a more affordable pricing strategy after receiving customer feedback. HealthFab‘s product line now includes specialized period panties and ayurvedic pain relief creams designed to provide comfort and convenience.
Identifying Market Gaps in Menstrual Hygiene
The Indian menstrual hygiene market, largely dominated by sanitary pads, left little room for alternatives. Recognizing this gap, HealthFab introduced products aimed at providing better comfort, style, and environmental sustainability.
“Many women were skeptical at first, but once they tried our products, they appreciated the comfort and convenience,” shared Sourav. HealthFab’s innovative approach also led to the development of specialized products for women experiencing high bleeding rates, reflecting their commitment to understanding and addressing diverse customer needs.
Navigating Growth Challenges and Strategic Milestones
Building a brand in a conservative market came with its set of challenges. Customer skepticism and building trust were significant hurdles. HealthFab tackled this by ensuring product availability across multiple platforms, including Amazon and Flipkart, making it easier for customers to access and try their products.
A pivotal moment for the startup was their appearance on Shark Tank India, which resulted in a two-crore investment. This funding has been instrumental in driving marketing and R&D efforts, enabling HealthFab to reach a wider audience.
Sourav elaborated, “Shark Tank gave us the visibility we needed. The investment is helping us increase product awareness and enhance our marketing strategy. It was a turning point for us.”
Impact of Shark Tank Investment on Business Strategy
The exposure from Shark Tank India not only boosted their credibility but also paved the way for strategic growth. HealthFab is leveraging this investment to scale its influencer marketing initiatives and explore potential brand collaborations. They are also focused on expanding their reach by enhancing the style and appeal of their period underwear, particularly to attract younger consumers.
Customer Feedback Driving Product Development
HealthFab’s commitment to customer-centricity is evident in its approach to product development. They actively seek and incorporate feedback to enhance product features, pricing, and design. This strategy has led to the introduction of stylish period underwear, catering to the evolving preferences of young consumers.
“We listen closely to our customers. Their feedback is what shapes our products,” emphasized Sourav. This dedication to continuous improvement is a key factor behind HealthFab’s growing brand loyalty.
Building Trust and Credibility in a Conservative Market
Overcoming societal taboos and skepticism surrounding menstrual products was no easy task. HealthFab addressed this by promoting open dialogues, educational campaigns, and partnering with influencers who resonate with their target audience.
Their approach is not just about selling products; it’s about changing mindsets. Sourav mentioned, “We are building a community that empowers women to talk openly about menstrual health, breaking barriers one conversation at a time.”
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, HealthFab aims to reach one crore Indian women and is exploring opportunities for global expansion. Their focus on customer feedback, product innovation, and strategic marketing will play a crucial role in achieving these ambitious goals.
“Our vision is to become a household name in menstrual hygiene, not just in India but globally,” shared Satyajit. With their commitment to sustainable and innovative products, HealthFab is well on its way to realizing this vision.
Conclusion
HealthFab’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, customer-centricity, and perseverance. By addressing a deeply personal and often stigmatized issue with empathy and creativity, Kiriti, Sourav and Satyajit have created a brand that not only provides comfort but also empowers women to embrace menstrual health with confidence.
With continued product evolution and strategic growth initiatives, HealthFab is set to redefine menstrual hygiene in India and beyond. Their story is an inspiring example of how startups can drive social change while building successful, purpose-driven businesses.
