Biography of Karan Korke: Founder and CEO of The Healthy Binge-Entrepreneur
Karan Korke's Journey
Karan Korke's professional journey reflects his deep
commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles through innovative food solutions.
As a co-founder of The Healthy Binge, Karan has played a crucial role in
developing a brand that merges health and taste. His entrepreneurial spirit and
background in marketing have significantly contributed to the success and
growth of this venture.
Educational Background
Karan's academic background laid a solid foundation for his
career. He completed his Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) at Symbiosis International
University in Pune, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM)
with a focus on Marketing from the Bharati Vidyapeeth Institute of Management
(BIIB). This educational path provided him with a deep understanding of
business principles and marketing strategies, essential for his future
ventures.
Early Career Beginnings
Before founding The Healthy Binge, Karan gained valuable
experience in various roles. He started as an intern at ET NOW in 2010, where
he was introduced to the dynamics of media and business. His early career also
included a role as an Assistant Manager at Dainik Bhaskar, where he managed key
accounts and contributed to significant revenue generation.
Experience in Media and Marketing
Karan’s career continued to evolve with roles at Movies Now
and Atelier. At Movies Now, he worked as a Senior Executive, and later at
Atelier, he served as a Senior Manager of Marketing and Sales. His work
involved brand development, media campaigns, and strategic consulting, where he
honed his skills in marketing and sales.
Venture into Media and Partnerships
In 2015, Karan co-founded MagikBox Media, where he served as
a Managing Partner until 2019. This role allowed him to delve into media
management and strategic partnerships, further broadening his expertise. His
tenure at MagikBox Media was marked by successful projects and collaborations
that bolstered his reputation in the industry.
Director of Sales & Marketing
Simultaneously, Karan took on the role of Director of Sales
& Marketing at True Agroroots Pvt Ltd in 2019. This position allowed him to
leverage his marketing skills to drive sales and enhance brand presence in the
market. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the company’s growth trajectory.
Founding The Healthy Binge
In January 2022, Karan co-founded The Healthy Binge
alongside his cousin Pranav Korke. The startup was born out of a desire to
offer healthy snacking options that combine nutritional value with great taste.
The Healthy Binge quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to
snacks, emphasizing health without compromising on flavor.
Product Innovation
The Healthy Binge’s products are crafted from high-nutrient
ingredients such as jowar, bajra, millets, ragi, and quinoa. These ingredients
are known for their nutritional benefits, including high dietary fiber, iron,
protein, and calcium. The snacks are 100% baked, free from cholesterol,
unhealthy fats, and gluten, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and
restrictions.
A Healthy Snack Revolution
The Healthy Binge aims to revolutionize snacking by offering
products that are not only nutritious but also delicious. The snacks are
designed to be a healthy alternative to traditional high-calorie and unhealthy
options. By focusing on quality and taste, The Healthy Binge addresses common
criticisms of healthy snacks being bland or expensive.
Successful Funding and Validation
The company’s appearance on Shark Tank India marked a
significant milestone. During the show, The Healthy Binge pitched for INR 50
lakhs in exchange for a 5% equity stake. The pitch was well-received, and the
company secured the investment at a valuation of INR 10 crores. This deal
provided crucial funding and validation from experienced investors.
Expanding Market Reach
The Healthy Binge operates on a direct-to-consumer (DTC)
model, selling its products through its website and various e-commerce
platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and BigBasket. This approach allows the
company to maintain control over its supply chain and offer competitive prices
while reaching a broad audience.
Product Range and Availability
The product range includes cookies, chips, and namkeen,
catering to diverse consumer preferences. The Healthy Binge’s products are
available in different sizes and types, making it easy for consumers to find
options that suit their needs. The company also offers free shipping on orders
above a certain value, enhancing convenience for customers.
Marketing and Branding Strategies
The Healthy Binge employs a digital-first marketing strategy
to engage with customers. The brand uses social media platforms such as
Instagram and Facebook to showcase its products and connect with its audience.
Collaborations with social media influencers further amplify the brand’s reach
and appeal.
Target Market and Consumer Base
The Healthy Binge targets health-conscious consumers across
India. This includes individuals focused on maintaining a healthy diet, fitness
enthusiasts, and those with specific dietary requirements such as gluten-free,
vegetarian, and vegan. The company’s products are designed to appeal to people
of all ages, reflecting the growing trend of healthy snacking.
Sales and Revenue
The Healthy Binge has achieved notable sales milestones,
with recent monthly sales reaching INR 11 lakhs. Despite generating significant
revenue, the company is not yet profitable, facing challenges with cash flow
and high costs. The gross margin is currently INR 14 per INR 40 selling price,
after accounting for distributor and cost of goods sold (COGS) expenses.
Biography of Karan Korke: Founder and CEO of The Healthy Binge-Entrepreneur /Age/Net worth/ The Healthy Binge story/healthy snacks/Karan Korke story
Investment in Growth
The company has invested in setting up a factory,
contributing INR 1 crore to enhance manufacturing capabilities. Additionally,
around 10% of monthly revenue is allocated to marketing efforts to promote the
brand and attract new customers. These investments are crucial for scaling the
business and expanding its market presence.
Ownership and Equity
In terms of ownership, Pranav Korke holds a 46% stake in The
Healthy Binge, while Karan Korke holds 36%. The remaining 16% is owned by
friends and family. The company raised INR 1.13 crore from friends and family
in April 2022, valuing the business at INR 7.5 crores.
Sustainability and Quality
The Healthy Binge places a strong emphasis on sustainability
and quality. The company sources its ingredients from farmers practicing
regenerative farming, ensuring that the products are environmentally friendly
and do not harm the soil. This commitment to sustainability is a core part of
the brand’s ethos.
Future Goals and Vision
Looking ahead, The Healthy Binge aims to continue growing
its presence in the healthy snack market. The focus will remain on providing
nutritious, tasty snacks that meet the evolving needs of health-conscious
consumers. With continued investment and strategic marketing, the company is
poised for further success and expansion.
Impact and Legacy
Karan Korke’s efforts with The Healthy Binge reflect a
broader trend towards healthier eating and sustainable living. By addressing
common concerns about healthy snacks and providing innovative solutions, The
Healthy Binge is making a positive impact on consumer choices and promoting
better eating habits.
A timeline for Karan Korke’s professional journey:
2010: Karan starts as an intern at ET NOW, gaining media and
business insights.
2011: Joins Dainik Bhaskar as an Assistant Manager, managing
key accounts.
2013: Moves to Movies Now as a Senior Executive, enhancing
brand and media experience.
2015: Co-founds MagikBox Media, focusing on media management
and partnerships.
2019: Becomes Director of Sales & Marketing at True
Agroroots Pvt Ltd.
January 2022: Co-founds The Healthy Binge with Pranav Korke,
emphasizing healthy snacks.
2022: Raises INR 1.13 crore from friends and family, valuing
The Healthy Binge at INR 7.5 crores.
2023: Appears on Shark Tank India, securing INR 50 lakhs for
5% equity, and a valuation of INR 10 crores.
2024: Achieves monthly sales of INR 11 lakhs and invests INR
1 crore in a new factory.