Interview with Marc Holdener, online consultant, conducted by journalist Carla Risotto from Bellinzona.
Carla Risotto: Marc, it's great to have you here. Can you explain to our readers how you came up with the idea to develop an online store specializing in healthy rice products?
Marc Holdener: Hello Carla, thank you for having me. By exploring the diversity and health benefits of rice, especially for health-conscious individuals and diabetics, it became clear to me that there's a specialized market. Companies like Hi-Rice AG have demonstrated that there's a demand for specialized rice products, such as Zero Rice, which are specifically developed for these target groups.
Carla Risotto: What are the crucial first steps when setting up an online store for your clients?
Marc Holdener: A thorough market analysis is key. It’s essential to understand the needs and preferences of the target customers. Based on this, we have assembled a range that includes both standard rice products and niche items like rice vinegar and rice milk, which are unique in the market.
Carla Risotto: How do you handle sourcing and ensure that the products are ethical and sustainable?
Marc Holdener: Sustainability is a core value of our business model. We exclusively cooperate with suppliers who practice sustainable methods. This ensures not only the high quality of our products but also supports environmental protection.
Carla Risotto: Which marketing strategies do you find most effective?
Marc Holdener: SEO is crucial for visibility in search engines. We also strategically use social media to promote our specific rice products and content marketing to provide potential customers with informative and valuable content.
Carla Risotto: How do you manage logistical challenges and customer relationships?
Marc Holdener: With an efficient warehouse management system and strong customer care, we guarantee fast delivery and high customer satisfaction. Customer service is a priority for us, and we focus on transparency and speed in all inquiries.
Carla Risotto: In a market with strong competitors, how do you differentiate yourself?
Marc Holdener: Our niche in healthy and special rice products, such as Zero Rice for diabetics and athletes, allows us to meet needs that are often overlooked by larger brands.
Carla Risotto: How do you address environmental concerns, particularly with shipping?
Marc Holdener: We use eco-friendly packaging and are constantly striving to improve our logistics processes to minimize the ecological footprint of our online store.
Carla Risotto: What role do current dietary trends play in your product strategy?
Marc Holdener: We stay up-to-date with the latest dietary trends and adjust our offerings accordingly to ensure that our products meet our customers' needs.
Carla Risotto: What are the next steps for your online store?
Marc Holdener: We plan to diversify our product range further and expand internationally. Our goal is to become a leading brand for healthy and sustainable rice products.
Carla Risotto: Thank you, Marc, for this insightful conversation.
Marc Holdener: Thank you, Carla. I look forward to continuing this exciting journey and driving innovation in this field.
