The Art of Sweetness: Riddhi Bhagat Talks Strategy and Creativity at Bhagat Halwai

An interview with Ms. Riddhi Bhagat, Strategic Director, Bhagat Halwai

In an interview with Ms. Riddhi Bhagat, Strategic Director of Bhagat Halwai, we delve into her journey of blending tradition with innovation in the confectionery industry.

With a rich legacy behind her, Riddhi shares insights on the brand’s evolution, her strategic vision, and the importance of sustainability in modern business practices.

Can you describe your role as the Strategic Director at Bhagat Halwai? What are your primary responsibilities?

Riddhi Bhagat: As the Strategic Director, I am actively engaged in shaping the future of our business. I play a crucial role in operations and financial discussions, not only for our existing ventures but also for new growth opportunities.

How do you stay informed about market trends and consumer preferences in the food industry? How do these insights influence your strategic decisions?

Riddhi Bhagat: ⁠Fortunately, most of our customers have a deep-rooted love for traditional sweets and foods, and their preferences remain consistent. However, I keep a close eye on sales trends to understand shifting tastes and identify what’s gaining or losing popularity.

I also actively participate in industry seminars and exhibitions to explore new opportunities and innovations. These insights enable me to make informed decisions about expansion, product selection, and which offerings to continue or phase out.

In an increasingly digital world, how has Bhagat Halwai adapted its marketing and sales strategies to reach a broader audience?

Riddhi Bhagat: ⁠By leveraging online platforms like Amazon, our own website, and the dedicated efforts of our social media marketing team, we’ve successfully expanded our reach beyond India.

Now, our most beloved mithai are just a click away, allowing customers both at home and abroad to savor our delicacies with ease.

Can you share an experience where you had to navigate a crisis within the business? What lessons did you learn from that experience?

Riddhi Bhagat: Working with karigars from diverse state backgrounds brings its own set of challenges. Their unique approaches and, at times, overconfidence can lead to resistance in following instructions or respecting the hierarchy, making implementation difficult.

I experienced this firsthand when a similar issue disrupted our operations just days before Diwali, leading to unexpected setbacks.

This taught me a valuable lesson: always have a Plan B ready rather than relying solely on the wrong hands for critical tasks. It’s about anticipating challenges and staying prepared to ensure smooth operations, no matter the circumstances.

What emerging trends do you foresee in the sweets and snacks industry, and how is Bhagat Halwai preparing to adapt to these changes?

Riddhi Bhagat: Right after the COVID period, we observed a subtle shift in customer preferences. However, over the past two years, these patterns have stabilized, returning to pre-pandemic choices.

Rather than trying to cater to every need under one roof, I believe in segmenting our offerings through dedicated sub-brands:

• Bhagat Halwai captures the essence of traditional mithai, namkeen, chaat, and food.
• Binge on Baked is dedicated to baked delights, appealing to a niche audience.
• Atha is our premium brand, specializing in luxury mithai and elegant gifting solutions.

This strategic segmentation enables us to serve each customer segment with precision and excellence, staying true to our legacy while embracing modern tastes.

As we conclude our conversation, Riddhi Bhagat’s passion for her craft and commitment to excellence shine through. Her leadership at Bhagat Halwai not only honors tradition but also paves the way for a sweet and sustainable future.

Read more Success story of India entrepreneurs & startups at SugerMint. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn