BHARAT Koirala
sanitary and home goods distributor
Bharat Koirala opened his wholesale sanitary and home goods store in Lalitpur, Kathmandu, one year ago. Seven days a week, he loads goods onto his bicycle and transports them across the city to pharmacies, cosmetic stores, beauty parlors, kiranas (Nepali convenience stores) and individual homes.
For the previous three years, Bharat worked as a salesman for other large distribution companies. He was forced to work up to 12 hour days without breaks and found the work extremely strenuous and tiring. He much prefers running his own business and being able to control his own hours, products and clients.
Bharat stocks items from Sanitary pads to disposable plates and cups to diapers to cleaning supplies
the bicycle can be loaded with as many items as Bharat can fit, and a tarpaulin cover protects from rain
Here is Bharat with the bicycle he previously used for business. Carrying even a small amount of stock was a cumbersome process.
Before purchasing a Portal Bicycle, Mr. Koirala used an basic Indian style bicycle to carry his goods, but it often broke and with no gear system was extremely difficult to maneuver. He finds the Portal Bicycle, on the other hand, very easy to use and comfortable to ride. Most importantly, it allows him to transport more items for sale and visit more clients in a short space of time.
PORTAL BICYCLE >> EMPOWERS ENTREPRENEUR >> develops BUSINESS
Over the next four years, Mr. Koirala plans to expand his business to the point that he can afford a salesman to make trips around the city, while he manages the operation from the shop. By the time Bharat turns 40 he intends to be the boss!
“Before, the journey around town selling my products used to take 8 hours per day. Now with the Portal Bicycle it takes only 4 hours and I am able to transport more goods. It makes me a better business.”
“This bike is famous. Around here people know me and they know my bike.”
