Biography of Shaan Shah: Founder and CMO of Freakins- Entrepreneur
Biography of Shaan Shah:
Early Foundations: Education and Interests
Shaan Shah’s journey into the world of business began at
Ashoka University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from
2016 to 2020. His academic experience was characterized by a deep interest in
understanding consumer behavior, a passion that would later inform his
entrepreneurial endeavors. At Ashoka, Shaan was not just a student; he actively
engaged in various activities that honed his leadership and organizational
skills.
A Step into Marketing
While studying, Shaan took on the role of Sports Junior
Manager at Ashoka University. Over three and a half years, he implemented
strategies that dramatically increased participation in sports activities from
25% to 60%. This experience provided him with practical insights into marketing
and operations, allowing him to work closely with over 500 members of various
sports teams. His responsibilities included compiling financial reports and
managing marketing efforts, laying a solid groundwork for his future ventures.
The Transition to Digital Marketing
After completing his undergraduate degree, Shaan sought to
expand his expertise in marketing. He enrolled in a Post Graduate Certificate
Programme at MICA, known for its focus on digital marketing and communications.
Here, he specialized in branding and social media marketing, gaining valuable
skills that would be crucial in the fast-paced world of consumer goods.
The Birth of Freakins
In September 2018, Shaan co-founded Freakins, a
direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand focusing on apparel for women and Gen Z. With a
commitment to quality and longevity, Freakins aimed to resonate with the youth
demographic. The brand was established with the vision of providing stylish yet
durable clothing, reflecting contemporary fashion trends while ensuring
sustainability.
Navigating Early Challenges
Starting a new venture is never easy, and Freakins faced its
share of challenges. Being bootstrapped meant that the founders had to be
resourceful and strategic in their approach. Shaan and his team focused on
building a brand identity that could stand out in the crowded fashion market,
emphasizing unique designs and customer engagement through social media.
A Commitment to Quality
Quality has always been at the heart of Freakins’
philosophy. Shaan believed that a successful apparel brand must prioritize the
quality of its products to build trust and loyalty among customers. This
commitment has been a significant factor in the brand's ability to grow year
after year, even without external funding in the early stages.
Building a Community
Recognizing the importance of community, Shaan leveraged
social media to create a strong brand presence. Freakins not only sold products
but also engaged with its audience through interactive content, fostering a
sense of belonging among customers. This community-building effort was vital in
establishing Freakins as a relatable and approachable brand.
Strategic Growth and Partnerships
With a firm foundation laid, Shaan sought strategic
collaborations to further enhance Freakins’ market reach. He understood that
partnerships could open doors to new opportunities, whether through influencer
marketing or collaborations with other brands. This strategic thinking played a
key role in Freakins’ growth trajectory.
Biography of Shaan Shah: Founder and CMO of Freakins-Entrepreneur/Age/Net worth/Investor/stylish, durable women’s apparel/Freakins story/Shaan Shah
Securing Funding
In a significant milestone for the company, Freakins raised
$4.85 million across several funding rounds, including a recent seed round that
brought in $601K. This influx of capital was led by Matrix Partners India and
Blume Ventures, alongside contributions from numerous angel investors. The
funding was a testament to the brand's potential and the confidence investors
had in Shaan’s leadership.
Investing in Operations
The new funding was earmarked for enhancing Freakins’ supply
chain capabilities. Shaan aimed to strengthen partnerships with factories
specializing in denim, knits, and woven fabrics, ensuring that the brand could
maintain its commitment to quality while scaling production efficiently. This
investment was crucial for meeting the growing demand for Freakins’ products.
Expanding Product Lines
Freakins was initially launched with a focus on denimwear,
catering to various body types. With the new resources, Shaan planned to
diversify the product offerings further. By expanding into new categories, the
brand aimed to appeal to a broader audience, ensuring that it could capture the
fast-fashion market’s evolving needs.
Biography of Shaan Shah: Founder and CMO of Freakins-Entrepreneur/Age/Net worth/Investor/stylish, durable women’s apparel/Freakins story/Shaan Shah
A Unique Approach to Fast Fashion
What sets Freakins apart in the competitive fast fashion
landscape is its unique approach to supply chain management and product design.
By maintaining control over every aspect of the production process—from design
to delivery—Freakins ensures exceptional quality control. This strategy also
allows for faster turnaround times, adapting quickly to changing consumer
preferences.
Leadership and Vision
Shaan’s leadership style is characterized by enthusiasm and
a focus on frugal strategic growth. His background in consumer psychology and
marketing has equipped him with the tools to navigate the complexities of
building a modern lifestyle brand. Shaan remains dedicated to creating a brand
that not only sells clothing but also resonates with the values and aspirations
of its customers.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Shaan envisions Freakins becoming a major
player in the fashion industry. He is committed to building a brand that stands
the test of time, focusing on sustainable practices and community engagement.
His goal is to continue innovating in product design and marketing strategies,
ensuring that Freakins remains relevant and appealing to its target audience.
Recognition in the Industry
As Freakins has grown, so too has its recognition within the
fashion industry. The brand has garnered attention for its innovative approach
and strong community presence, positioning itself as a leader among Gen
Z-focused apparel brands. Shaan’s commitment to excellence has earned him
respect from peers and investors alike.
Conclusion: A Journey of Innovation
Shaan Shah’s journey with Freakins is a remarkable example
of entrepreneurship in the modern age. Through dedication, strategic thinking,
and a deep understanding of consumer behavior, he has built a brand that
resonates with today’s youth. As Freakins continues to grow and evolve, Shaan
remains focused on innovation and quality, embodying the spirit of a true
entrepreneur.
The Future of Freakins
With a robust plan for expansion and a commitment to
sustainability, the future looks bright for Shaan and Freakins. As they
navigate the challenges and opportunities in the fast fashion industry, Shaan’s
vision and leadership will be instrumental in shaping the brand’s trajectory.
A timeline based on Shaan Shah's journey with Freakins:
2016: Shaan enrolls at Ashoka University, studying
Psychology.
2018: Co-founds Freakins, focusing on stylish, durable
women’s apparel.
2020: Completes his degree and begins a Post Graduate
Certificate at MICA.
2021: Freakins faces initial challenges but emphasizes
quality and community.
2022: Raises $4.85 million in funding, enhancing growth
potential.
2023: Expands product lines and strengthens supply chain capabilities.
2024: Gains industry recognition for innovative approaches
and community engagement.
Future: Aims for sustainability and continued relevance in
the fast fashion market.
