If you are looking for authentic leather products for your next trip or date, Wanjiline Leather is the best place to start.
Wanjiline Leather, a company that makes leather products using authentic and locally sourced leather, is owned by Caroline Wanjiru, a Nairobi-based businesswoman.
In an interview with Bizna, Wanjiru revealed she ventured into entrepreneurship after years of employment where she worked in various capacities, including PA, Sales Coordinator, and Office Manager.
”These positions gave me exposure and experience to start my own brand, and I was dealing with customers in these,’’ she said.
The idea to venture into the leather industry was inspired by her brother, who operates a leather brand called Don Rawzi Handicrafts in the USA.
It was through the brand that Wanjiru gained insights into the leather industry, marking the beginning of her journey in entrepreneurship.
”I raised funds through the USA brand and looked for Artisans to work with my brand,’’ she noted.
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Today, she owns her firm, Wanjiline Leather, located in Juja Farm. The firm manufactures various leather products, including handbags, laptop bags, wallets, and belts, all customized to customers’ tastes and preferences.
According to her, all her products are crafted using quality local Kenyan leather, which is durable and beautiful. Her customers love the end results, which has earned her repeat clients and referrals.
”We give personalized customer service and follow up with clients once the merchandise has been delivered to ensure the client is happy with the product. We make customized leather products and make every effort to ensure that what the client ordered is what they have received,’’ she explained.
The businesswoman uses social media to market her products which she sells at between Sh12,000- to 25,000 depending on the products. Customers can make orders online and have them delivered to their doorsteps.
Wanjiru attributes the success of her business to quality services, including quality products. However, the business has also had its fair share of challenges, including dealing with rogue employees and competition from other manufacturers.
”Since we all now post our products on social media, there are cases of your designs being replicated, hence the originality of your design is taken away,” she lamented.
She hopes to expand her business to other markets regionally and internationally in the next five years.
”Our focus will continue to be on customer satisfaction, sustainable practices and introducing new product lines and fostering collaboration with other brands,’’ she said.