As a part of the initiative to support Indian and homegrown brands, in The Champa Tree’s Vocal for Local series, we speak to Mint & Oak, a homegrown men socks brand that believes in making everyday essentials – fun and quirky. Founded by Purvi Modi Monga, Mint & Oak sells over 1000 pairs of socks through their own website as well as leading e-commerce websites, such as Amazon and Myntra et al.
Mint & Oak’s founder Purvi shares with TCT readers how and what the COVID-19 pandemic has taught her on the professional and personal front.
A little bit about your inspiration behind starting the business/venture?
I have always been passionate about fashion. This was one of the reasons why I chose to start Mint & Oak. I believe the best entrepreneurs are the ones who are driven by passion.
I was on a maternity break and in various conversations with friends and family members, I noticed an interesting trend. The number of times socks came up in conversation piqued my interest. Most men were buying their socks while traveling internationally because of a better quality product and a wider range of designs.
We did a study and realized that the consumer’s needs in India were not being met and that the demand was definitely there. This is how Mint & Oak was born. Mint & Oak is a super fun socks brand. Our wide range of socks have one purpose: To step up the sock game for everyone.
How has COVID-19 affected your business and what do you think lies for your brand in the future?
We are a Direct to Consumer (D2C) brand and are proud to say that our products are designed and made in India. Covid-19 did not see any product strategy change for us.
We have all been confined home for the last 5 months. But the situation could extend to 6 more months? Or maybe 9? Fear of the unknown is a strong driver to change consumer behavior. Earlier people were spending money on going out, vacations, fuel, etc. More and more people are spending this money on e-commerce as opposed to your brick and mortar stores.
The consumer feedback we received post lockdown has been extremely encouraging so much so that we will soon be launching a women’s line of fun socks.
What’s one advice you would give to budding local businesses?
You need to be hungry to learn. Have an open mind, talk to people, be open to taking advice, don’t be scared of making mistakes and don’t give up.
