Excerpts from an Interview with Fouzul Hameed, Founder of Hameedia,
from a recent edition of BMD
Q: We all know that there are threats to any business venture. Have you turned any such threat into an opportunity?
Fouzul: The threats we are mainly faced with are appreciation of the US Dollar and depreciation of the Rupee, multiple taxes, high overheads, and most importantly infiltration of politics into all spheres of business. One way we overcome these threats is working to introduce more affordable menswear styles. For example, our latest offering, the Hameedia Wedding Touch, is a man’s personal wedding planner, and a very attractive solution for the men preparing to get married in style.
Q: What drives you for results?
Fouzul: Passion to design menswear. I have personally done cuts for our own brands and even personally created bespoke suits for many leaders of Sri Lanka. A committed human resource at Hameedia too helps greatly. I look for attitude followed by efficiency rather than paper qualifications when I hire. Teamwork counts too. A strong supplier network also helps Hameedia to maintain its quality guarantee at best prices.
Q: How do you stay motivated despite obstacles and setbacks?
Fouzul: Again, it’s my passion for men’s clothing. The brand is still very important though. Unethically created brands won’t last long and soon would become a liability. A strong ‘Brand Goodwill’ can sustain the company even during a market crisis.
