The country has development organisations that provide support and guidance to local companies, whose integral role in society has been placed under the spotlight by the economic blockade against Qatar, an entrepreneur has said.
Layla al-Dorani, founder of Raw Middle East, a local company that produces 100% natural fruit and vegetable juices, said Qatar “has long focused on economic diversification, with a specific focus on providing support to entrepreneurs”.
“In my time in Qatar, I have noticed that the demand for locally-made products has been increasing over the years, and it is certainly peaking at the moment,” al-Dorani told Gulf Times.
Al-Dorani said business owners can seek support and advisory services from organisations such as Qatar Development Bank and Bedaya Centre for Entrepreneurship and Career Development, among several others.
“There is a lot of support for entrepreneurs in Qatar. My humble advice would be to check with the ministry (concerned) regarding the legal activities of your business, and then to make sure you are making your product in a safe manner.
“Do not underestimate the support of your community. If you are looking to build and run a sustainable business, your products need to support the needs of society, and also add value,” she stressed.
On running a sustainable business, al-Dorani suggested that local companies can use eco-friendly products, minimise waste, recycle and reduce carbon footprint, as well as train and develop staff.
“At Raw Middle East, we have reusable delivery packaging and recycle our plastics, as well as encourage our consumers to recycle by paying them for each bottle returned; obviously this won't work for every business, but there are many ways entrepreneurs can create a sustainable business. It’s always best to start from the beginning as this breeds a culture of awareness throughout the company,” she said.
Al-Dorani also said the economic blockade is an opportunity for Qatari entrepreneurs and SME owners to maximise their presence in the local market.
“The current situation is an opportunity for anyone who has goods and services to offer to the community. Consumers tend to stick to brands they know, but when they can’t find those brands on the shelves, it’s an opportunity for smaller or unknown producers to gain market share,” al-Dorani said.
She added, “I think that it is great to be exposed to new brands; I believe that change is good. As consumers, we continuously crave for more variety, despite our affinity with some brands.
“We are also discerning when it comes to value for money. Consumers will remember the brands that supported them during this time and the ones that used it as an opportunity to raise their prices and profit margins.”
