Enterprise: Arica Distributors (Pvt) Ltd / Arica Studio & Color Lab (Pvt) Ltd / Ruwan Smart Drive (Pvt) Ltd

Founder: Mr Vajira Perera / Mrs. Samanthi Chandradewa

Industry: Distribution of building materials (Cement/ PVC items)/ Studio & Color Lab/ Vehicle modification & sale of auto accessories

Year it was founded: 2007

Location: Anuradhapura

Today, let's talk with a successful businessman who is on a successful journey by running businesses in different fields. That is Mr. Vajira Perera, Director of Arica Distributors (Pvt) Ltd, Arica Studio & Color Lab (Pvt) Ltd and Ruwan Smart Drive (Pvt) Ltd. So, this is the conversation with him.

1. Firstly, let's talk about your business and how it was started, shall we?

I am Vajira Perera. I joined the business field in 2007 by starting a studio / color lab. Then joined my wife Samanthi Chandradeva who is also a director of our business. With her active intervention, I was able to shape-up the business systematically. Thereafter in 2012, I opened an auto spare parts showroom and a workshop in Anuradhapura. My aim was to provide a workshop for vehicle modifications in the area. Then in 2017, stepped into distribution business by acquiring the sales agencies for Insee cement & Phoenix PVC products.

2. Entering into different business fields was something done with a special reason, right?

Yes, we did so in a well-thought and in a planned manner. Our aim is to operate as a diversified business entity. Because it can reduce the effects of adverse economic conditions. We are currently involved in printing / color labs, vehicle modification / auto parts sales, building materials distribution. Although we are based in Anuradhapura, a significant part of our customers come from nearby towns such as Tambuttegama, Talawa, Galgamuwa, Medavachchiya, Nochchiyagama, Mihintale etc.

3. How does your business differ from other competing businesses?

I am not from a business-related family. I have been an insurance professional for over 24 years. The experience gained from operations and implementing business strategies, I always try to use the same experience in my business. And we do everything with a customer-centric business plan. In the future, we hope to continue the business under the concept of "Everything under one roof".

4. What challenges have you faced in this journey and are you facing any recently?

The instability of the economy after the Easter attack and the outbreak of Covid 19, are the main challenges we have faced. Also, because of them, the price of goods has changed, and the sales volume has also decreased. The lack of raw materials due to import restriction has adversely affected the business.

5. Let's talk about your future business dream, shall we?

We are currently the market leader in all business sectors in Anuradhapura. So, our hope is to grow our business further.

6. How was the support received from Commercial Bank during your journey?

Commercial Bank is the bank that has been with us both during our good and tough times. Due to the capital concessions and support received from them, we were able to manage the business smoothly even with low limits of working capital.

7. What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

So, do not give up your business during tough times. Continue the business even on a small scale. You will surely succeed in future.  

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