An optimist by nature, Nikoloz always believes that he will definitely achieve his goals. However, he is still in doubt when, after his father's death, he takes on the fruit growing business and enters an industry he understands nothing about.
And today, not only his seedlings, but also his business are thriving!
Cherries, plums, grapes, etc. – on an area of more than 30 hectares, Nikolozi’s company grows a wide variety of fruit varieties – including those previously completely unknown to the Georgian market. Nikolozi’s products are of the highest quality, which is why they cost more than regular products. He is slowly developing his own brand.
My story
When my father died, I was working in a completely different industry. Suddenly, our family was faced with a big dilemma – we had to either sell his business or continue it. I thought carefully, looked at our grown fruits and realized that there were still certain niches in the market. I decided to become an innovator and continue my father’s business. I invested a lot in the company, which everyone was skeptical about. Everyone around me thought I was crazy. To be honest, I didn’t know if I was doing the right thing either, because this industry was so foreign to me.
When I first visited BPN, we turned all my visions and ideas into a business plan. When the coaching confirmed that I was doing everything right, it gave me tremendous motivation.
Each season, I devote more time and energy to breeding new varieties, and then I eagerly await the harvest. I slowly replace the old, unusable varieties with new varieties. To obtain new seeds, I have established new connections in Turkey, Spain, and America.
I am also slowly learning new technologies: I plan to build irrigation systems, hail protection nets, a cold storage and a greenhouse. At this stage, the business is developing steadily. We are trying to continue developing and turn our company into a brand. I am also thinking about opening a store and I also have a great desire to get involved in agrotourism soon.
What are you most proud of?
Generally speaking, I am very proud that I do not feel any guilt towards anyone. As an entrepreneur, I am proud that I am an innovator in the agricultural sector, not only in terms of discovering new varieties, but also in terms of breeding technologies.
How have you changed your environment through your own actions?
Young farmers are now even more interested in breeding new varieties. Before, they were skeptical about all this and followed the old traditional ways. Now, when they saw my results, they were motivated to become more innovative in their businesses.
Your biggest lesson?
I learned that as an entrepreneur, I always have to be able to take a step back to do the right thing even in difficult situations. I also learned how important it is to diversify a business.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Always look for something new and listen to your heart. Don't be afraid of challenges on the way to achieving your goals. That's how you will become successful.
