For the past six years, I have been on a mission to find the perfect bottles for our brand and, more importantly, to transition to refillable bottles. Sustainability has always been at the heart of what we do at Chandrika Thomas London, and creating refillable packaging is a crucial step in making our products even more eco-friendly. Our goal is not only to reduce waste but to create a packaging solution that embodies both sustainability and timeless elegance.
However, this journey has not been easy. The past two years, in particular, have been filled with challenges, disappointments, and unexpected hurdles. I have attended Paris Packaging Week multiple times, searching for the right supplier who could bring our vision to life. Each time, I left with excitement and hope, believing we had finally found the perfect solution. I met with some of the most promising packaging companies, examined their offerings, and engaged in in-depth discussions about our needs. But when the samples arrived, reality set in, the bottles didn’t fit the pumps, the materials didn’t meet our quality standards, or something just felt missing.
It has been an exhaustive process, filled with moments of both anticipation and frustration. Finding the right supplier goes beyond aesthetics, it requires a balance of quality, craftsmanship, and a true commitment to sustainability. We need bottles that not only look exquisite but are also practical for refilling, ensuring a seamless experience for our customers. At times, it felt like we were so close, only for an unforeseen issue to arise, setting us back to square one.
We kept pushing forward, determined to make it happen. Over the course of two years, we explored different suppliers, examined every possible option, and tested countless prototypes. We focused on innovative materials such as lightweight yet durable glass, ensuring that our bottles remain elegant, functional, and environmentally responsible. Every design consideration revolved around maintaining the luxurious essence of our brand while prioritising sustainability. Yet, we still haven’t found the perfect match.
Even with the obstacles we've encountered, our commitment remains strong. We're driven by a desire to offer our customers an unparalleled experience, which fuels our continued efforts. Our goal is to ensure that our refillable bottles reflect the finest standards of luxury and sustainability. This goes beyond simply introducing a new product; it's about redefining the industry and proving that premium fragrances and sustainable practices can seamlessly come together.
To my fellow small business owners, I want to share this, never stop believing in your vision. The road may be tough, but persistence turns dreams into reality. Every obstacle is a lesson, and every setback is a chance to refine and grow. Keep going, and you will create something truly remarkable. The journey to creating something meaningful and impactful is never easy, but giving up is not an option. We must continue pushing forward, finding solutions, and making things happen. As small businesses, we wear many hats and face countless challenges, but our determination and passion are what set us apart. We don’t have the vast resources of large corporations, but what we do have is resilience, creativity, and a deep-rooted purpose.
Every challenge we face is a step toward something truly meaningful. Sustainability is not just a goal but a commitment we uphold with every choice we make. We are moving toward a future where luxury embraces responsibility, and we will keep pushing forward until that vision becomes reality.
