Poultry industry is dominated by commercial broilers, and the demand for organic, country chicken has been on the rise. According to a report by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the desi chicken market in India is expected to grow at a rate of 15% annually, driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers.
This growing trend is what motivated Saikesh Goud, an IIT Varanasi graduate, to leave behind a lucrative software career with an annual package of Rs 28 lakhs to chase his entrepreneurial dream. Country Chicken Co., a venture that has not only transformed his life but also impacted the lives of thousands of poultry farmers across southern India.
Founded in 2021, the company now boasts a monthly revenue of Rs 1 crore, proving that passion and purpose can indeed coexist in the world of business.
A Leap of Faith: The Decision to Pursue a Dream
Saikesh’s decision to leave his high-paying job wasn’t easy, especially when it meant stepping into a field he had little experience in. However, his desire to do something meaningful, combined with his love for authentic, organic food, fueled his resolve.
This vision led him to team up with Hemambar Reddy, an expert in the poultry industry, and Mohd. Sami Uddin, to co-found Country Chicken Co. Together, they embarked on a journey that would not only change their lives but also revolutionize the way people in Hyderabad and beyond consume chicken. Their focus on sourcing high-quality, free-range country chicken from local farmers set them apart from competitors, making their venture a resounding success.
Building a Sustainable Business: The Pillars of Country Chicken Co.
Country Chicken Co. is a movement towards sustainable farming and ethical consumption. The company prides itself on offering authentic country chicken, known for its richer taste and higher nutritional value compared to commercially farmed broilers.
But the company’s USP goes beyond just the product; it’s in their commitment to building a community of farmers who share their vision. By partnering with over 15,000 poultry farmers across southern states, Country Chicken Co. has created a robust supply chain that benefits both the farmers and the consumers. They believe in empowering the farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain the health and well-being of their chickens.
This approach has ensured that the company maintains stringent quality standards, providing customers with chicken that is not only delicious but also ethically sourced.
Navigating Challenges: Overcoming Skepticism and Building Trust
Launching a business in a market dominated by commercial poultry giants wasn’t without its challenges. Skepticism was rife, both from potential customers and within the industry.
However, through consistent quality and educating consumers about the benefits of country chicken, the company began to win over skeptics. Their first restaurants in Hyderabad, located in Kukatpally and Pragathi Nagar, quickly became popular, offering a unique dining experience centered around the authentic taste of country chicken.
The business grew rapidly, with monthly revenue soaring from Rs 3 lakhs in early 2022 to Rs 1.2 crores by April 2023. This remarkable growth is a testament to Saikesh’s perseverance and the team’s commitment to their mission.
Impacting Lives: The Social Responsibility of Country Chicken Co.
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Country Chicken Co. isn’t just about profits; it’s about people. The company’s success has had a significant impact on the lives of the farmers they work with. By providing a steady demand for country chicken, the company has created employment opportunities for around 70 individuals and supported the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
This commitment to social responsibility has earned the company a loyal following, both among farmers and consumers. The company’s ethical approach to business has resonated with many, further fueling their growth and solidifying their place in the market.
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Looking Ahead: The Future of Country Chicken Co.
As Country Chicken Co. continues to grow, Saikesh’s vision for the future remains ambitious yet grounded in the values that have brought the company this far. With a target of achieving Rs 50 crore in revenue during the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the company is set to expand its operations, opening more restaurants and reaching even more consumers across India.
But despite the rapid growth, Saikesh remains focused on maintaining the quality and integrity of their products. For Saikesh, Country Chicken Co. is not just a business; it’s a lifelong commitment to promoting sustainable farming practices and providing consumers with healthier, more ethical food options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Country Chicken Co. different from other poultry businesses?
Country Chicken Co. focuses on providing authentic, free-range country chicken that is healthier and more flavorful than commercially farmed broilers. They are committed to sustainable farming practices and ethical sourcing.
How did Saikesh Goud start Country Chicken Co.?
Saikesh, an IIT graduate, left his high-paying software job to pursue his dream of entrepreneurship. He co-founded Country Chicken Co. with Hemambar Reddy and Mohd. Sami Uddin, focusing on promoting organic country chicken.
What challenges did Country Chicken Co. face in its early days?
The company faced skepticism from customers and within the industry, but they overcame these challenges by maintaining high-quality standards and educating consumers about the benefits of country chicken.
How does Country Chicken Co. support local farmers?
Country Chicken Co. partners with over 15,000 poultry farmers, providing them with a steady demand for their chickens and educating them on best practices to ensure sustainability and quality.
What are the future plans for Country Chicken Co.?
The company aims to achieve Rs 50 crore in revenue in the 2023-2024 fiscal year by expanding their operations, opening more restaurants, and reaching a wider consumer base across India.
Why did Saikesh Goud leave his software job to start this venture?
Saikesh wanted to pursue a passion that was not just about making money but also about making a difference. His love for authentic, organic food and desire to impact lives drove him to start Country Chicken Co.
