Founder Magazine Team
In the bustling metropolis of Bangalore, India, a quiet revolution in the personal care industry has been underway since 2017, led by Mrs. Bharati Malnad. Sri Enterprises, the brainchild of Bharati, is not just another player in the crowded personal care market; it’s a brand built on the pillars of trust, innovation, and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability. With a focus on creating products that are free from harsh chemicals and loaded with nature-derived ingredients, Sri Enterprises is carving a niche for itself in a competitive landscape.
Bharati’s journey into entrepreneurship was not a typical one. At the age of 43, after a successful career in a completely different field, she decided to take a leap of faith and venture into the world of personal care products. The catalyst for this dramatic shift was a personal struggle—an increasing sensitivity to chemical-based cosmetics, which led to persistent skin issues. Despite trying numerous products, Bharati found that many contained harsh chemicals, even those marketed as safe and effective, which aggravated her condition. This personal challenge sparked an idea: to create a brand that consumers could trust, one that was honest, natural, and safe for everyday use.
Starting with an initial capital investment of 2 crores, Bharati dedicated herself to building Sri Enterprises from the ground up. The early years were challenging, as she had to navigate the complexities of setting up an industrial unit, procuring and installing machinery, and securing the necessary licenses—an ordeal that took nearly a year to complete. As a woman entrepreneur, Bharati faced additional hurdles, particularly in securing funding. Despite the numerous government schemes aimed at supporting women in business, she found that these initiatives often fell short in practical implementation. Nevertheless, her determination and resilience saw her through these early struggles. Hence she decided to go the bootstrapped route and as of now has invested ~5 Crores in her venture
One of the key factors that set Sri Enterprises apart from its competitors is its unwavering commitment to using natural, plant-based ingredients. Bharati’s personal experience with skin allergies made her acutely aware of the dangers posed by harsh chemicals commonly found in personal care products. From the very beginning, she was determined to formulate products that were free from silicones, parabens, and mineral oils—ingredients that are prevalent in many mainstream brands. Instead, Sri Enterprises focuses on harnessing the power of nature, using ingredients that are gentle on the skin and environmentally friendly. This approach not only resonates with health-conscious consumers but also aligns with the growing global trend towards sustainability in the beauty and personal care industry.
In September 2023, Sri Enterprises took a significant step forward by launching its products under the brand name “Raissa” in retail stores, followed by an expansion into e-commerce in March 2024. The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with a repeat purchase rate of 25%—a clear indication of the trust and satisfaction that the brand has built among its users. This growth is not just a testament to the quality of the products but also to Bharati’s strategic vision. Recognizing the importance of staying ahead in a competitive market, she has ensured that Sri Enterprises continuously innovates and adapts. To support this, the company has invested in a full-fledged lab inhouse where Raw materials and finished products are tested and also put under stress of varying temperatures and humidity to evaluate its effectiveness under multiple environmental circumstances. The company is committed to incorporating the latest advancements in skincare technology and aligning its formulations with the strictest global standards, particularly those required for export to markets in Europe and the USA.
The impact of Sri Enterprises extends beyond its commercial success. In a market saturated with products that often prioritize profit over safety, the brand’s commitment to natural, chemical-free formulations is a breath of fresh air. By offering products that consumers can trust to be safe and effective, Sri Enterprises is addressing a significant gap in the market. Moreover, the company’s focus on sustainability—both in terms of the ingredients used and the manufacturing processes employed—contributes to a broader societal shift towards more environmentally responsible consumption.
The journey to build Sri Enterprises has been fraught with challenges. Bharati recalls the difficulties of managing every aspect of the business single-handedly, from product development and manufacturing to marketing and distribution. The responsibility of overseeing a 360-degree business operation was immense, particularly in the early days when resources were limited, and every decision carried significant weight. However, these challenges also served as valuable learning experiences, shaping Bharati into the resilient and determined entrepreneur she is today. She credits her ability to adapt, her unwavering discipline, and her refusal to dwell on regrets as key factors that have helped her navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurial life.
Inspiration played a crucial role in Bharati’s journey. She often draws strength from the example set by her father, whom she considers her professional role model. His leadership qualities, dedication to work, and the wisdom he imparted to never look back with regret but to learn from every situation and move forward, have been guiding principles in her life. His ability to adapt to changing circumstances and his constant encouragement to dream big have motivated Bharati to persevere, even in the face of adversity.
Bharati’s story is not just one of personal success but also of the broader lessons she has learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of patience and persistence, noting that any business takes time to find its footing. Understanding that success doesn’t come overnight, she advises aspiring entrepreneurs to stay focused on their goals, maintain discipline, and be prepared for the inevitable challenges that come with starting a business. Bharati also highlights the importance of having a backup plan—a lesson she learned from her own experiences in dealing with unexpected setbacks.
As Sri Enterprises continues to grow, Bharati has her sights set on the future. She is acutely aware of the burgeoning demand for chemical-free personal care products, a trend that is expected to accelerate significantly in the coming years. From now until 2030, the personal care and skincare market is poised for substantial growth, particularly in the segment focused on natural and sustainable products. Sri Enterprises is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, with plans to expand its product range and enter new markets, both domestically and internationally.
Despite the challenges, Bharati’s journey has been marked by numerous achievements. Her innovative approach to personal care has earned her recognition and accolades, including the Best Women Achiever award in the Soap and Cosmetics category at the Handcrafters Carnival (MSME) and the Innovation in Personal Care award at the India Business Awards. These honors are a testament to her hard work, creativity, and commitment to excellence in an industry that is often dominated by larger, more established brands.
Bharati’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is rooted in the realities of business. She cautions against getting carried away by the allure of funding opportunities and market hype, emphasizing that entrepreneurship requires much more than just a good idea and a stroke of luck. It demands hard work, resilience, and the ability to navigate the complex and often challenging landscape of running a business. Her story is a powerful reminder that success in entrepreneurship is not just about the destination but about the journey—the lessons learned, the obstacles overcome, and the personal growth that comes from pursuing a dream.
As Sri Enterprises continues to evolve, Bharati remains committed to her original vision: to create a brand that people can trust, one that is synonymous with quality, safety, and sustainability. Her journey from a woman with a personal mission to a successful entrepreneur leading a growing business is an inspiring example of what can be achieved with passion, determination, and a relentless focus on doing what is right for both consumers and the planet.
In the coming years, as the personal care industry continues to shift towards more natural and sustainable products, Sri Enterprises is poised to be at the forefront of this movement. Bharati’s leadership and the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation and quality will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of personal care, not just in India but on a global scale. Her story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship to create positive change, both in the marketplace and in the lives of consumers around the world.
Sri Enterprises’ success is not just measured in financial terms or market share. It is also about the impact the brand is having on the way people think about personal care. By offering products that are safe, effective, and environmentally responsible, the company is helping to redefine industry standards and encouraging consumers to make more informed and conscientious choices. This shift in consumer behavior is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future, one in which businesses and consumers alike take greater responsibility for the impact their choices have on the environment.
Bharati’s journey, from battling skin allergies to building a successful business, is a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within each of us to turn personal challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and a deep commitment to making a difference. As Sri Enterprises continues to grow and evolve, it will undoubtedly continue to inspire others to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams, to take risks, and to strive for success, not just for themselves but for the betterment of society as a whole.
The future of Sri Enterprises is bright, with new products and innovations on the horizon. As the company continues to expand its reach and influence, it remains true to the core values that have guided it from the beginning: integrity, sustainability, and a commitment to improving the lives of its customers. Under Bharati’s leadership, Sri Enterprises is not just a business; it is a movement towards a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
