Rising through dolls and toys business to success

Maua,

Friday, October 13, 2023

KNA by Kamanja Maeria

Caroline Muthoni an entrepreneur in Maua Town, Igembe South Sub County has embarked on a unique business journey, creating a market for dolls and toys in a Town where such offerings were scarce.

Her decision to specialize in dolls and toys was unconventional in Maua Town, which is known for its bustling agricultural and trading activities. While the Town caters to the daily needs of its residents, there was a gap in terms of recreational and entertainment options for children.

Caroline's business venture was met with skepticism initially, with many doubting the chances of such a store in a Town primarily focused on agriculture. Nevertheless, she was determined and believed in the potential of her business idea.

Over the past year, Caroline's Dolls & Toys business has seen remarkable growth. "It was tough in the beginning; people didn't understand why we needed a dolls and toys shop here. But gradually, as more parents and children visited my store, they realized the value it brings to our community," she said.

The business has gained popularity among parents and children alike. Caroline has managed to secure a loyal customer base that appreciates the diversity of her products, including educational toys, action figures, and a wide variety of dolls. With a focus on quality and affordability, her store has become the go-to place for parents looking for gifts or educational tools for their children.

On how much she makes from the venture, Caroline maintained that she makes Sh.5000 per day when she has new stock adding that her cheapest toy goes at Sh 100 while the most expensive goes at Sh. 200.

Caroline added that dolls not only serve children in the modern days but also serve as house and car decorations. She said they also serve as presents for events such as birthdays, Valentine’s Day and many more.

However, being the only dolls and toys shop in Maua Town comes with its challenges in maintaining a consistent supply of products, often having to travel to larger cities to source inventory. This not only incurs additional costs but also creates delays in restocking her store.

''The logistics of transporting fragile and sometimes bulky items to Maua Town can be cumbersome but despite these logistical challenges I always remain committed in ensuring access to a diverse range of toys and dolls,'' she noted.

Caroline's resilience and commitment to her business have not gone unnoticed, and she has received support from the local community. She hopes to expand her business and eventually provide even more opportunities for children in Maua Town.

Caroline's Dolls and Toys business in Maua Town is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship. Her commitment to providing children with a world of imagination and play has resonated with the local community. Being the sole provider of dolls and toys in the Town, Caroline’s dedication and resilience serve as an inspiration to aspiring business owners in Maua and beyond.

''I urge youths to be innovative and inventive since with the scarcity of white collar jobs youths needs to be innovative and inventive in business sector so as to make ends meet,'' she said.

Courtesy; KNA