The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Initially finding financial support from the male-dominated banking world back in the 90s was challenging. We had to overcome some IP issues globally and keeping up with technology was tricky. Supply chain consistency was a challenge and finding the balance in supply chain between locally supplied and quality items.
With it being an expensive product to make, there was no margin for wholesale and export, therefore we had to think of a different way to introduce Thunderpants to the global audience. Hence, we now have Thunder Sisters in the USA and the UK adapting our NZ story to their own journey with Thunderpants in their own countries, as they make and sell Thunderpants under licence.
We continue to move with the times and not be afraid to make big changes to our business model.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I always think this is a personality question. Some people don’t like risk and therefore prefer a regular wage, whereas others are not so risk averse and enjoy the challenge. The big thing is though, that most enterprises need both of these personalities to succeed.
If you are the type to worry about everything, then I would say the uncertainty of starting a new business could be a big ask.
If you are like us and like to break rules and don’t enjoy being told what to do, then you too could start your own business and become as unemployable as we are.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Nothing major. We have no drive to make a much bigger entity or push ourselves to be in competition with big corporations.
Our hope is to be an enduring label that manufactures locally. A brand that is loved by all kinds of people and families around the world who enjoy the fun, comfort, durability and culture of Thunderpants.
We just like to see people enjoy their varied lives in their Thunderpants and provide a safe and happy work environment for those employed by Thunderpants and the suppliers involved.
Head to the Thunderpants website to find out more and to shop their awesome range. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
