
Nagpur Duo Builds ₹250 Cr Brand with Courage & Vision
In the world of entrepreneurship, courage and vision are essential qualities that set apart successful business owners from the rest. Vivek Deshpande and Kirit Joshi, two fearless engineers from Nagpur, are a perfect example of this. With limited funds and a bold ambition, they founded Space Wood in 1994, which today stands as a ₹250 crore brand, a testament to their unwavering commitment and innovative approach.
The journey of Space Wood began with a simple idea – to create modular furniture that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and affordable. Deshpande and Joshi, both engineering graduates from Nagpur, had a deep understanding of the limitations of traditional furniture designs and saw an opportunity to disrupt the industry. They started with a small setup, investing just ₹50,000 of their own savings to convert a small godown into a makeshift factory.
The initial years were marked by challenges, with the duo facing skepticism from potential customers and suppliers alike. They were often met with dismissive remarks, such as “Modular furniture won’t work in India” and “You’ll never be able to compete with the established players.” However, Deshpande and Joshi remained undeterred, fueled by their vision and determination to succeed.
One of the key factors that contributed to their success was their willingness to take calculated risks. They invested heavily in research and development, experimenting with new materials, designs, and manufacturing processes. This led to the creation of innovative products that not only met but exceeded customer expectations. Their ability to adapt to changing market trends and consumer preferences also helped them stay ahead of the competition.
Another crucial aspect of their success was their focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Deshpande and Joshi believed that building strong relationships with their customers was essential to driving growth and loyalty. They invested in building a robust dealership network, offering comprehensive after-sales services, and engaging with customers through various channels. This approach not only helped them build a loyal customer base but also earned them a reputation for reliability and excellence.
As Space Wood grew, so did its product portfolio. The company expanded its offerings to include a range of modular furniture solutions, from living rooms to offices, and even customized solutions for specific industries. This diversification strategy allowed them to tap into new markets and customer segments, further accelerating growth.
Today, Space Wood is a household name in India, with a presence in over 500 cities and a distribution network that spans across 10,000 dealerships. The company has also expanded its operations to international markets, including the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Its ₹250 crore turnover is a testament to the success of Deshpande and Joshi’s vision and their ability to execute it with precision and dedication.
The story of Space Wood serves as a powerful reminder that courage, vision, and relentless effort can turn dreams into reality, even with humble beginnings. Deshpande and Joshi’s journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through unwavering commitment, innovative thinking, and a willingness to take calculated risks.
In an interview with Ascendants, Deshpande shared, “Fearlessness is the key to better business development. We never let our doubts or fears hold us back. We took calculated risks, innovated, and continuously improved. Our success is a testament to the power of courage and vision.”
Joshi added, “We believed in our idea and worked tirelessly to make it a reality. We didn’t compromise on quality, and our focus on customer satisfaction has helped us build a loyal customer base. Our journey is a story of resilience, innovation, and the power of teamwork.”
The story of Space Wood is a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the importance of courage, vision, and perseverance in the pursuit of success. As Deshpande and Joshi continue to drive growth and innovation at Space Wood, their legacy serves as a reminder that with unwavering commitment and a bold ambition, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality.
Source: https://ascendants.in/business-stories/fearlessness-is-the-key-for-better-business-development/