By: Mpho Shelile

MASERU

In the fiercely competitive world of entrepreneurship, few stories are as inspiring as that of Ms. Libuseng Titi, the visionary founder of Blanket Parlour. Since its inception in 2016, Blanket Parlour has carved out a prominent place in the local market by specialising in high-quality blankets for every need and occasion.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Ms. Titi’s unwavering dedication and strategic acumen have propelled the company to success. Her journey serves as a testament to the resilience and ingenuity required to thrive in the business landscape.

Reflecting on the early days of her business, Ms. Titi Stresses the challenges that come with launching a new venture. “Starting out was not an easy journey,” she admits. “One might have a vision and dream, but executing that dream is incredibly hard.” She recalls the struggles of not only setting up the business but also managing customer expectations and navigating the dynamics of a local market that did not always offer the support she hoped for.

One of the most difficult aspects was retaining clients. Ms. Titi remembers how customers would sometimes request specific blankets that were not in stock, forcing her to go the extra mile to place orders for them. Another challenge she faced was the apparent lack of respect for local businesses.

Ms. Titi highlights how some customers would ask for quotations or discounts, only to later go to her competitors offering lower prices. She also faced issues with delayed payments, making it difficult to maintain a steady cash flow.

Despite these challenges, Ms. Titi’s determination and resilience have been key to her success. The support of loyal customers and her dedication to offering high-quality products helped her navigate the early struggles. She also learned the importance of customer service, always making sure to meet her clients’ needs as best as possible.

One of her proudest moments was when she opened her second branch. This milestone was not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the company’s growth and the trust customers had in Blanket Parlour’s products. Ms. Titi believes that her ability to persevere, coupled with a strong work ethic, has played a substantial role in the company’s success.

In terms of marketing, Ms. Titi adopts a multifaceted strategy. She leverages traditional advertising platforms such as radio and newspapers, along with social media, particularly Facebook, to reach a broader audience.

Additionally, word-of-mouth marketing has significantly contributed to spreading the word about Blanket Parlour’s products and services. Ms. Titi also strategically sponsors events, including fashion shows and government functions, to enhance the business’s visibility and forge connections with key community leaders and influencers.

Her marketing strategy focuses on promoting the business and engaging with her community. Sponsoring events allows her to showcase her products to a wider audience while contributing to the local economy and supporting causes that align with her values.

Looking ahead, Ms. Titi has ambitious plans for Blanket Parlour. In the next five years, she envisions her business expanding further with new branches, a larger customer base, and a broader product range. “My wish is to see my business grow with new branches and a larger reach,” she says. She is dedicated to enhancing her product offerings, and solidifying Blanket Parlour’s position as a trusted brand in the market.

As Blanket Parlour continues to grow, Ms. Titi’s commitment to providing quality products and exceptional service remains at the heart of the business. Through determination, resilience, and an unwavering belief in her vision, Ms. Titi is building a lasting legacy.