Create the best first impression with Ramsons
We often speak about the importance of making the best first impression, whether during an office interview, in front of our friends, or perhaps in the mind of our loved ones. Being sweet-tongued often helps you create the best first impression, but even before that being sweet-smelled promises to leave a long-lasting first impression. Spreading happiness through enticing aromas, Ramsons has been one of the front-runners in India’s fragrance industry.
Founded in 1984 by Mr. Rameshchandra Pandey and his two brothers, Mr. Sureshchandra Pandey and Mr. Arunchandra Pandey, Ramsons has come a long way. Running into its second generation, the eight Pandey siblings and cousins, namely, Vrijesh, Mukesh, Sanjeev, Mangesh, Deepak, Akash, Vishal and Jaiprakash, have taken giant strides in their respective fields of expertise to help Ramsons carve a niche for itself in the competitive fragrance business.
Vrijesh says, “My father, Mr. Rameshchandra Pandey, used to work with a company. We were a big family, along with two uncles and cousins. To make more money, my father thought to start a business. He tried his luck with different businesses but unfortunately could not succeed. Suddenly, a glimmer of hope appeared when the perfume business approached him.”
Mr. Rameshchandra founded “Ramsons.” The company name was derived from his father’s name – Mr. Ram Murti Pandey. Mr. Rameshchandra Pandey and his brothers were actively involved in the business. Mr. Rameshchandra was forced to retire after suffering from a brain haemorrhage in 2004. His eldest son, Vrijesh, then took over the reins.
Vrijesh recalls, “I was born and brought up in Uttar Pradesh. I did my schooling till eighth from there, and then I came to Mumbai. My father was already here. I often heard my father talk about business. There was quite a business environment at home too. So, I was inspired by that, and I wanted to get into it. I joined the business in 2004.”
Being in the business for almost 40 years, Ramsons has never stopped learning. The company focuses on research and development and wants to give the best to its customers. Vrijesh explains, “We have more than 100 variants in our four categories of business; perfumes, deodorants, air fresheners, and talcum powder. We procure raw materials from all over the world to make the finished fragrance product in-house in our sister concern, S. R. Fragrance. India is our main market, and every state has a specific fragrance culture. For instance, in Maharashtra, we have an affinity towards mogra; in Rajasthan, people like the rose; in West Bengal, customers are fond of tuberose, etc. The fragrance also depends on the air quality. The same fragrance will smell different in different areas.”
To keep up with the changing taste and preferences of customers, Ramsons undertakes rigorous research. Vrijesh posits, “We follow a particular direction. Nobody knows which fragrance will work. A fragrance is a luxurious item. In India, we have a lot of western influence. Usually, we are four to five years behind our western counterparts in terms of new product launches. Typically, what succeeds in the West is brought here.”
With so many fragrances in the market, selecting the best one sometimes becomes the most challenging job. Vrijesh elucidates, “Customers always want new fragrances. Their tastes change with age.” He adds, “Once the customers are out for shopping, usually, after testing four to five fragrances, they almost lose their sense of smell. Then they ask the shopkeepers about new launches or popular perfumes. They finally end up buying what the shopkeeper reckons.”
Ramsons’ USP has been affordable pricing and quality products. Vrijesh believes, “Creating a fragrance is an art. Anybody can create, whether you are an Indian or a European or an American. There is a lot of competition in the fragrance industry. It is, however, good as it helps us to be better. Also, there has been an increased awareness of fragrances in India. People have started understanding the different notes. They also know which perfume to use for the office, party, or gym.”
There have been some common myths around fragrances, and Vrijesh attempts to clear a few. He says, “Many people tend to apply perfume on their clothes. However, it is of no use. One should wear perfume on the skin. The skin’s heat breaks the complex molecules used to produce fragrance. Once these molecules break, they exude a fragrance. Also, keeping perfumes or deodorants in the bathroom and not on the dressing table is advisable. After the shower, you can wipe your body with the towel and immediately apply the fragrance.”
Today, Ramsons has a strong workforce marching towards a bright future in the industry. Each of the eight Pandey brothers is actively involved in the business. Vrijesh dreams of getting acceptance worldwide and concludes, “I want Ramsons to be accepted across the globe. I also want to change the lifestyle of people around me.”
Read E-Magazine : Ramsons – KYT April 2023
