Biography of ER Rollan: Founder and CEO of GrowSari Inc.-Entrepreneur
Biography of ER Rollan:
ER Rollan’s entrepreneurial journey began in the
Philippines, where he co-founded GrowSari Inc. in 2016. As a child raised in a
vibrant environment, ER developed a passion for business early on. His
commitment to supporting local communities and small businesses became the
foundation for his future endeavors. This drive would eventually lead him to
revolutionize the way sari-sari stores operate across the nation.
Educational Foundations
ER’s educational background played a significant role in
shaping his career. He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in
Business Administration from the University of the Philippines in 2006. During
his time at university, he actively participated in the University of the
Philippines Junior Marketing Association, serving in various leadership roles.
His involvement not only honed his marketing skills but also cultivated a
strong network among future business leaders.
Early Career in Consulting
After completing his degree, ER embarked on a career in
consulting. He joined Procter & Gamble, where he spent nearly seven years
in various capacities. His roles included Senior Manager in Consumer &
Market Knowledge, where he gained invaluable experience in market insights and
consumer behavior. This foundation equipped him with the skills necessary to
understand the needs of both businesses and their customers.
Consulting at BCG
In 2013, ER transitioned to The Boston Consulting Group as a
consultant in the Center for Consumer & Customer Insight. This position
allowed him to delve deeper into market analysis and strategy formulation,
providing him with a comprehensive understanding of consumer dynamics. His time
at BCG further solidified his expertise and prepared him for the challenges of
entrepreneurship.
Biography of ER Rollan: Founder and CEO of GrowSari Inc.-Entrepreneur/inventory management/age/net worth/sari-sari stores/ER Rollan story/GrowSari
Insights at Unilever
Building on his consulting experience, ER joined Unilever in
2014 as a specialist in Consumer & Market Insights. He focused on brand
development for Unilever’s Ice Cream business across Southeast Asia and
Australasia. This role not only enhanced his marketing skills but also exposed
him to the intricacies of brand management and product positioning in diverse
markets.
The Birth of GrowSari
Recognizing a significant opportunity in the local market,
ER co-founded GrowSari Inc. in January 2016. The company aimed to support the
over one million sari-sari stores in the Philippines, which are essential
components of grassroots communities. By providing a software-as-a-service
(SaaS) platform, GrowSari helps these stores manage their operations more
effectively, transforming them into service hubs that offer a wider range of
products and services.
Transforming Sari-Sari Stores
GrowSari’s platform addresses several critical needs for sari-sari
stores. It offers affordable, on-demand inventory, ensuring that store owners
can maintain stock without heavy upfront costs. Additionally, the platform
provides working capital credit lines, enabling these small businesses to
invest in growth and expansion. This financial support is vital for store
owners who often operate on tight margins.
Integrating Microservices
The platform also integrates a variety of microservices,
such as mobile load, bills payment, e-commerce, and Wi-Fi services. By consolidating
these services into one platform, GrowSari allows store owners to streamline
their operations and maximize their revenue potential. This holistic approach
helps transform sari-sari stores from simple retail outlets into comprehensive
service providers for their communities.
Data-Driven Insights
One of the standout features of GrowSari is its ability to
generate valuable data and insights on store operations. This information is
crucial for manufacturers and distributors as they develop their strategies and
marketing campaigns. By understanding consumer preferences and purchasing
behaviors, businesses can tailor their offerings to better meet the needs of
the market.
Rapid Growth and Expansion
Since its inception, GrowSari has experienced remarkable
growth. What started as a small ordering platform in three cities has expanded
to support over 50,000 stores in more than 100 cities across the Philippines.
This significant scale demonstrates the demand for technology-driven solutions
in the local retail landscape and highlights ER’s effective leadership and
vision.
Empowering Local Communities
ER Rollan’s commitment to empowering local communities is at
the heart of GrowSari’s mission. By providing sari-sari stores with the tools
and infrastructure they need, the company helps enhance the livelihoods of
countless families. This impact resonates deeply within communities, fostering
economic growth and improving access to essential goods and services.
Recognized Leadership
ER’s leadership and innovative approach have not gone
unnoticed in the business community. His work with GrowSari has garnered
attention and accolades, highlighting the importance of technology in
transforming traditional retail. As a thought leader in the industry, he
continues to inspire others to leverage technology for social good.
Looking Ahead
With a clear vision for the future, ER Rollan aims to
further expand GrowSari’s reach and impact. He envisions a landscape where every
sari-sari store is equipped to thrive in the digital age, maximizing their
potential to serve their communities. Through continuous innovation and
dedication, he is poised to drive even more significant changes in the local
retail sector.
A Call to Action
ER’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one
individual can have on their community through entrepreneurship and innovation.
His story encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and create
solutions that uplift others. By harnessing the power of technology, we can
collectively work towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
A timeline for ER Rollan’s entrepreneurial journey:
2006: Graduates cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in
Business Administration from the University of the Philippines.
2006-2013: Works at Procter & Gamble, gaining experience
in consumer behavior and market insights.
2013-2014: Joins The Boston Consulting Group, focusing on
market analysis and strategy formulation.
2014: Becomes a specialist in Consumer & Market Insights
at Unilever, enhancing brand development skills.
January 2016: Co-founds GrowSari Inc., providing a SaaS
platform to support sari-sari stores in the Philippines.
2016: Launches GrowSari, offering inventory management and
working capital solutions to sari-sari stores.
2020: GrowSari expands to support over 50,000 stores across
100 cities in the Philippines.
2021: Integrates various microservices into the GrowSari
platform, enhancing store operations.
2024: ER’s leadership recognized with accolades in the
business community for transforming traditional retail.
Future Plans: Aims to further expand GrowSari’s reach and
empower sari-sari stores in the digital age.
