Lecture Notes: BlackBerry Business Experience by Pak Edo

Introduction

• Pak Edo discusses the unique experience of entering the BlackBerry business.
• Not everyone can join this exclusive business; it requires significant initial investment.

Regional Presence

• The business in East Java is represented by Madiun and Surabaya.
• Other regions involved include Bali, Sumbawa, Jogja, Solo, and Central Java.

Financial Performance

• Historical monthly revenue reached up to IDR 700,000,000.
• Decision-making point on whether to continue or discontinue the business.

Transition to Junk Business

• Started in February 2011.
• Initially involved in buying and selling used goods (junk business).
• Significant focus shift to recycling bottles by May 2011:
  • Bottles like soy sauce, beer, and other beverage bottles were supplied to factories.
  • Utilized every part of the bottle (even broken ones) for different markets.
  • Employed pickup trucks for collection and delivery.

Scaling and Peak in Business

• By 2014, fully penetrated the factory supply chain.
• Business model involved detailed logistics for different types of bottles.
• Realized significant profits (up to IDR 400 per bottle).

Challenges and Vision Shift

• Recognized religious and ethical conflict with the business involving alcohol bottles:
  • Negative feedback and 'righteous' remarks from others.
  • Sought guidance from religious and business mentors.

Ethical and Financial Struggles

• Made conscious decision to exit the business due to its immoral nature.
• Faced substantial financial and emotional challenges in the transition:
  • Reduced employee count from 40 to a lesser number.
  • Sold off trucks and handled multiple loans.
  • Turned towards religious adherence and ethical business practices.

Starting Anew

• New business in fresh produce (vegetables) post-transition:
  • Initially challenging with significantly lower revenues.
  • Moved from comfortable logistics to physically demanding market purchases.
• Required learning and adapting to new business dynamics:
  • Shift from bulk sales to individual market transactions.

Growing the New Business

• Emphasis on creating a comprehensive shopping experience for customers:
  • All essentials available in one place.
  • Cleaner, friendlier store environment leading to increased customer loyalty.
• Leveraged technology (software) for improved management and customer service.

Challenges with Fresh Produce

• Addressed perishability issues with creative solutions:
  • Developed creative divisions to handle less fresh produce—reselling as salads, juices, etc.

Future Vision

• Expansion within Blitar with an aim for one store per village.
• Highly focused on continuous system improvement before considering broader expansions.
• Maintaining alignment with religious and ethical principles in business operations.
• Aim to balance world business success with spiritual fulfillment.