Interview of one of MITCO Group’s clients - Mrs Marème DIABAN
We have contacted Mrs Marème DIABAN, who is an investor as well as the Director of a Mauritian company, involved in the activity of retail sale of clothing and accessories in stores, to share with us more on her choice to invest in this company.
- How did you come up with the idea or concept of investing in this type of business?
I was looking for souvenir gifts, especially clothes, to give to my loved ones.. Not finding what I wanted, I was inspired to think that there might be something to create in this field. Given that Mauritius has a textile production tool and I have professional experience in this area, I thought it would be a great opportunity to embark on this adventure.
- What is the biggest purpose of the company and what are its goals?
To demonstrate that Mauritian know-how is of quality, that the Mauritian textile heritage exists and that we would like to participate in making it last. We would also like to offer locals with the possibility of consuming local products which is of quality, and therefore promote a circular economy.
- What are the different products offered and what is their market value?
Our range of products is essentially textile (t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, baby rompers, bags, hats, socks for the whole family etc.) but we also design posters and postcards Basically we can offer everything that can be produced locally and that can serve as a support to highlight the beauty and biodiversity of Mauritius.
- How do you advertise your business? What's unique about your business?
We do not really advertise but we are labeled ‘Made in Moris’, which allows us to be in the limelight and benefit from a substantial network. Also, we have partnered with partners with whom we share the same values and I think that this is what has contributed to make us known (i.e. LA ISLA SOCIAL CLUB, Collaboration with the artist Daphne Doomun, etc.). We work our collections in such a way as to be as ecological as possible by practicing upcycling, using recycled packaging, water-based inks, etc. We want to reduce our carbon footprint as much as possible. Maybe that's one of the things that sets us apart.
- What is the potential market value for your products today? What is its growth rate?
Since its creation, the brand has been very well received both on the local and tourist market. During the pandemic, we focused on collections exclusively for the local market and we did not expect such a return. This has been very encouraging for us and more broadly for the made in Mauritius. Tourism remains a major development axis for us and indeed the reopening of the borders has allowed us to double our sales at the end of 2021.
- Who do you sell to and how do you get your customers?
We sell through local concept stores, tourist shops, hotels and also online via our website. It is during the first confinement that we created the website and it is finally a great tool to reach new customers not only locally but also internationally.
- Have you considered an alliance or partnership?
Yes. Hopefully we will have great stories to share as we partner with one of the pillars of the Mauritian textile industry in the future.