IIM Graduates make organic detergents

IIM Graduates leaving their high paying corporate jobs to begin their own ventures is nothing new. In fact, an IIM degree has now become a stepping stone into the entrepreneurial world. Meet Chennai based couple, IIM degree holders and entrepreneurs Preethi Sukumaran and Srinivas Krishnaswamy who left their respective jobs on the same day in 2009 to be their own boss.

Unlike traditional entrepreneurs, they did not leave their jobs with a specific idea and product to sell. Their aim was to convert sustainable urban living into a business venture. After a year of travel and research, their first product was an organic washing detergent, Krya. They source their key ingredient, soapberries from an organic farm in Andhra Pradesh.  Instead of opting for the traditional launch, followed by a website; they began their own Facebook page and blog interacting with potential customers about how to improvise their product, taking in their suggestions and advice. Six months before officially launching their product, the environment friendly entrepreneurs had a ready set of clients.

Now, a year after their launch their business is averaging sales of Rs.1 lakh a month and early next year they plan to launch a dishwashing soap made of vegetable inks. In 2014, they hope to launch organic skin care products. A renowned academic degree, adequate corporate experience, a niche idea and the zeal to follow through is really all that you need to be successful path breaking businessmen.  Preethi and Srinivas’s inspiring story proves that an ‘idea can indeed change your life.’