Cindy Sawyer, ToweLocs
FULL ESSAY
A. My company is called ToweLocs. It is a decorative locking device that keeps kitchen/hand towels in place but with style. The idea behind this started with my own experience. I was repeatedly frustrated every time my hand towels fell off the towel bar and when my kitchen towels did the same upon opening the oven door. This was also compounded when my two young children would leave their hand towels on the bathroom floor after each use. As you may imagine, this was an everyday event in our household or in any typical household.
I wanted to find a way to not only secure the towels in their rightful place but to also do it with some style. This sparked the invention of ToweLocs. After numerous prototypes and designs, I decided on a final product that exists today. I was inspired to market my invention when I received multiple compliments on what a great idea that was and where can they buy them.
B. It was certainly an issue I struggled with because of the current economic challenges faced not only by people we knew but also the entire country. On the other hand, what better time to introduce a product that currently does not exist in the market. Further, ToweLocs price points are designed for every household. Its practical yet unique characteristics have every bit of potential to be part of every home in America. I've always regarded myself as a person who is always thinking of how to do this better and one who truly appreciates those who have done so. Plus, being in command of my own destiny and running my own business have always been the ultimate dream. What I have done differently with ToweLocs was to not let opportunity pass me by. I started to do the challenging tasks of starting a new business. While it has been challenging learning the various tasks and issues creating a business, it has also become a very satisfying process seeing it grow and mature each day. Additionally, it was very comforting to come across so many individuals, i.e. manufacturers, business owners and such, that have become so helpful especially when they discovered how new this was all to me. I look forward in continuing this entrepreneurial spirit and drive as ToweLocs grow and become a household name.
C. I am already using Alibaba. What I would continue to do is promote Alibaba and praise the value it brings to any business owner. I believe in the quality of a product. The commitment to quality assures me that my customers will be happy with their choices. If awarded the top prize, I would ensure that the quality of ToweLocs would be raised to a level where it becomes a high standard for comparison. I also have other products and ideas I would like to add to ToweLocs.





