Stone Bear | One of the fastest growing clothing brand, made in India for the world

• ByStartupStory     |    March 1, 2023

In a recent exclusive interview with Startupstory, Kushal Patel, owner of Stone bear, a men’s apparel brand under Panorama International, discussed his background and the story behind his startup. Growing up in a family that had been in the textile/export business for 30 years, Kushal joined the family business in between 2008-2009. Despite not pursuing further studies after earning a mass communication diploma from a well-regarded college in Bombay, Kushal had planned to continue his education abroad. However, due to financial crises in 2007, he was unable to do so, so he joined his father’s business.

The Inspiration Behind This Startup: An Inside Look

In the interview, Kushal revealed that he believes the textile sector is the most unorganized industry in the 21st century, with many people knowing very little about it. He argued that only two groups are typically involved in this kind of industry: those who come from rich families in the business or those who are forced into it. Well, personally I have seen these businesses going from one generation to the next generation, especially the 90’s crowd, because they have a better understanding of a family business rather than this generation. 

After completing his education, Kushal worked with his mother and family to organize the business. However, he did not want to work under someone else and was focused on starting his own company. Despite facing challenges along the way, Kushal learned from the experience and was able to launch his own men’s apparel brand, Stonebear in 2022, which aims to change people’s perceptions of the industry.

Founder’s Vision for Change: What They Hope to Achieve

Stonebear is a startup that provides a range of men’s apparel, with Kushal hoping to break stereotypes surrounding men’s fashion. The company’s owner believes that the textile industry is ripe for innovation and that his startup can bring much-needed change to the sector. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to make a difference, Kushal has overcome obstacles to launch a successful brand that is sure to inspire others in the industry.

During an interview, Kushal from a successful family textile business from 2009-2019 shared his journey of his business and also continued saying about his startup plans. The business had a good turnover of 15-18 crore per year, which he attributed to his efficient handling of a skilled workforce. However, due to his commitment, he couldn’t explore new opportunities, but learned valuable lessons. Despite the risk associated with starting a new venture, he received help from his father, who suffered a severe brain stroke but was there for him as a pillar. The founder Kushal patel acknowledged that the term ‘startup’ was relatively new, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, it has gained more attention and is still evolving.

What is the Product Being Offered by This Company 

In a recent interview with startupstory, it was revealed that the product offered by the brand is not unique, as there are numerous other brands providing similar styles and designs. However, the brand’s focus on providing a comfortable and well-fitted product for every body type sets it apart from its competitors. Their tagline is ‘Wear Confidence’. The brand conducted fittings on 20-25 body sizes, including small and double XL sizes, with an option for 5XL (Future plans) as well. The project, based in Gujarat, was finalized in December 2021 and officially launched in November 2022, with successful business in December 2022 and January 2022. To convince potential customers, the brand is investing in paid promotions on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

Stonebear Companies’ Plans for the Future

During an interview, it was shared that the brand aims to become a well-known sustainable brand offering a range of men’s apparel and accessories, including weekend wear, summer break outfits, co-ords, accessories, and cotton chinos. Their tagline is ‘Wear Confidence’, and they prioritize premium quality, importing fabric from Italy and other parts of Europe. The brand is currently focused on digital marketing and has a small offline office setup. While they may seek investment in the future, they are currently bootstrapping their operations. This brand is also again on Amazon (prime seller),they are also planing to expand globally as Kushal has the experience of international market as well. 

The Challenges Faced by the Founder: A Closer Look

After sitting alone for two years, he started his startup in 2021 with a clear intention of breaking stereotypes of the term ‘startup’, but was faced with after challenges of the COVID-19. During an interview, it was discussed that the main risks faced by the startup included the novelty of the term “startup” to potential customers and a lack of attention from the crowd. The owner, Kushal, began the stonebear venture in 2022 and personally oversees all aspects of production and marketing, with the assistance of one staff member. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Kushal remains optimistic about the future of the business. He believes it is important to have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the company, which is why he is handling everything himself, without a team of labor, logistics, or accounting professionals.

Founder Shares Thoughts on Competitors and Offers Advisory Message

During an interview, Kushal Patel, the owner of a textile startup, shared that he does not view his competitors as threats, but rather they are individuals who are also pursuing their own business goals. He believes that comparing and competing is a waste of time and that it is important to focus on one’s own clear vision. Kushal also advises aspiring entrepreneurs to invest ample funds in their ventures and then go for fund raising and Besides that he even mentioned that the risk factor of being cautious when doing business in the International or any market, later, suggesting that involving the government and banks and desired Government approved councils can provide added security. Well it is so, thankful of him to explain this to the readers. Henceforth, his last message for everyone is to stay focused, have a clear plan, and build trust with business partners.

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