Mahabalipuram: The land of the 7th century stone sculptures...... Part II

I went to Mahabs yesterday for some work and thought of seeing Mr. Wasi. So I went to Sorna Articles again. He was busy watching TV in his shop. We exchanged pleasantries and I asked him about how the sales are going in his shop. This question of mine immediately brought a sullen look on his face and he gave me a shocking news. That he was thinking of closing down this shop. I asked 'Why?'. And he started explaining me the expenses that he is incurring to maintain the shop and he is not even getting a single sale since last 20 days. Moreover, he can not stop the wages of the karigars working for him.

I asked him about the sales strategies that he is employing to improve his sales. And to my surprise, there was no strategy. He just got the sculptures from different cities and sold it here at Mahabalipuram. There was no advertising or commission used. This is how he has been running his shop for so long and he thought there is no problem in his strategy even now.

I thought over his problem and discussed with him on few points which I thought could help him. 

• I suggested him to tag along with the hotels in the area and ask them to refer tourists to his shop for sculptures. And in return, for every sale, he could share a part of his profit with the hotel. 
• Also, he could get in touch with the local guides and ask them to bring customers to his shop. He could offer some commission to them for every sale. 
• I also suggested him to think of getting in touch with some internet portals who will sell his products online.

These suggestions encouraged him a lot. I hope he starts doing good business again and makes good money during this year's peak season. I wish that SORNA ARTICLES flourishes in the future.

Abhishek Priyadarshi

FT 13396