Biography of Ismail Badri: Founder & CEO of Guardian Gears- Entrepreneur
Biography of Ismail Badri:
Ismail Badri’s journey into the world of motorcycle
accessories began with a simple photograph of a KTM sports bike that captivated
him nine years ago. This fascination led him to purchase his own bike in 2015.
However, when he searched for quality riding gear, he found himself
disappointed. There were no shops nearby in Secunderabad that offered the
products he wanted, which sparked an idea that would change his life.
Starting a New Venture
Recognizing the lack of quality motorcycle accessories in
his area, Ismail, along with his wife Tasneem, decided to open a motorcycle
riding gear shop called "Gear Up! Your Motorcycle Store" in
Secunderabad. Their goal was to provide local riders with access to
high-quality products that were previously difficult to find. This venture laid
the groundwork for what would later become Guardian Gears, a brand dedicated to
manufacturing premium motorcycle luggage.
The Birth of Guardian Gears
In 2018, Guardian Gears was officially established, focusing
on creating durable and functional motorcycle bags and accessories. Ismail and
Tasneem aimed to design products that not only met the needs of bikers but also
stood out in terms of quality. With a commitment to using high-grade materials,
they were ready to fill the market gap they had identified.
An Unforgettable Opportunity
Fast forward to 2021, and Ismail and Tasneem found
themselves pitching their business on Shark Tank India. This experience was a
dream come true for Ismail, who had been a fan of various international
versions of the show for years. Their pitch attracted attention from multiple
investors, including well-known entrepreneurs like Peyush Bansal, Vineeta
Singh, and Anupam Mittal.
Navigating Negotiations
During their appearance, Ismail and Tasneem sought an
investment of ₹30 lakhs in exchange for 5% equity. However, the Sharks
countered with a demand for 30% equity, which Ismail felt undervalued their
business. Despite the missed opportunity for a deal, the experience on the show
proved invaluable, providing insights into venture capital, business valuation,
and market strategies.
Biography of Ismail Badri: Founder & CEO of Guardian Gears- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/startup/premium motorcycle luggage/startup
Quality Over Quantity
In their pitch, Ismail emphasized the superior quality of
Guardian Gears products, particularly their zippers, which are sourced from
YKK, a leading international zipper manufacturer. He explained that using
high-quality materials was crucial for durability, as zippers often fail before
other parts of a bag. This focus on quality reassured customers about the
longevity of their products.
Customer-Centric Approach
Guardian Gears has built a strong customer base, boasting
over 30,000 satisfied clients and more than 50,000 products sold to date. The
company is committed to gathering feedback from riders to continuously improve
its offerings. In 2020 alone, they successfully sold 30,000 products,
showcasing the demand for their quality luggage solutions.
Expanding Horizons
Since their appearance on Shark Tank, Guardian Gears has
seen a significant increase in website traffic and inquiries from international
markets, including the US, Canada, and the UAE. Ismail and Tasneem are
optimistic about their growth trajectory, even if the show did not result in a
secured investment deal.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Ismail revealed plans to expand their
manufacturing unit to boost production. In addition to their popular motorcycle
bags, Guardian Gears is set to launch a new line of travel backpacks and other
luggage options. This expansion reflects their commitment to diversifying their
product range and catering to a broader audience.
Learning from Experience
While the outcome of their Shark Tank pitch wasn’t what they
hoped for, Ismail and Tasneem value the experience as a learning opportunity.
They gained insights into business operations, strategic thinking, and the
importance of effective negotiation. The feedback from the Sharks, combined
with their own dedication, will help them navigate future challenges.
A Community Focus
Ismail and Tasneem are not just entrepreneurs; they are
passionate about building a community around motorcycle riding. By providing
high-quality products and engaging with customers, they hope to foster a
culture of safety and adventure among bikers. Guardian Gears stands as a
testament to their belief in the power of entrepreneurship to create positive
change in the community.
A Dream Realized
Ismail Badri's story is one of passion, perseverance, and
innovation. From a simple love of motorcycles to establishing a brand that
addresses the needs of riders, Ismail and Tasneem have turned challenges into
opportunities. Their journey continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams
while prioritizing quality and customer satisfaction in every aspect of their
business.
A timeline for Ismail Badri's journey with Guardian Gears:
2014: Ismail is captivated by a photograph of a KTM sports
bike.
2015: Purchases his first motorcycle, sparking a passion for
riding.
2016: Recognizes a lack of quality riding gear in
Secunderabad.
2017: Opens "Gear Up! Your Motorcycle Store" with
his wife, Tasneem.
2018: Officially establishes Guardian Gears, focusing on
premium motorcycle luggage.
2021: Appears on Shark Tank India, attracting interest from
several investors.
2021: Despite not securing a deal, gains valuable insights
into business strategy.
2020-2023: Grows customer base to over 30,000 and sells more
than 50,000 products.
2024: Plans to expand manufacturing and launch new travel
products.
