Small businesses are often referred to as the backbone of the US economy. During the past year, that cornerstone came under pressure like never before. As the pandemic posed unique challenges, retailers were forced to adjust and adapt in true entrepreneurial fashion. In celebration of Small Business Month, Klarna is spotlighting a selection of small businesses within our network to share their stories of resilience and innovation.
Meet maxbone: Parisa Fowles-Pazdro is the Founder & CEO of maxbone. Reimagining the pet industry, Parisa created maxbone to offer beautifully-designed yet functional products that pamper your pooch without sacrificing style.
How did you come up with the idea for your business?
In 2016, I was passionate about my dog, but not about the experience of shopping for him. As I started to hunt for supplies, I recognized a void in products with high-quality materials and an elevated design. Pets play such an important role in our lives and deserve the utmost care, so I was inspired to do something that would improve this shopping experience for others.
What’s the biggest challenge facing your business as a result of the pandemic?
This pandemic has presented challenges unlike anything that we’ve faced before. Meeting the customer demand while experiencing severe supply chain slowdowns was one of our biggest challenges. Due to our distribution center operating with less staff, shipments being backlogged, and inventory shortages; we’ve experienced longer lead times, thus, impacting the turnaround times on our products.
Name a digital tool you couldn’t do business without.
Slack. Especially with working remote, it helps you feel so much closer to your team.
What have you recently read or listened to that has been an inspiration for your work?
The book The Messy Middle by Scott Belsky which is an amazing guide written for founders.
What do you view as the greatest benefit to being an entrepreneur?
As an entrepreneur you have the opportunity to make an impact on people’s lives. Having the power to positively impact not only your customers, but your employees, and the overall industry is extremely rewarding.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs on building and running a successful business?
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to be an entrepreneur. There’s also a misconception that entrepreneurs should know it all, but that’s far from the truth. Real founders are often visionaries with very creative minds that need a good team to succeed.
Are you a small business owner? Apply for your chance to be a part of Klarna’s Small Business Impact Initiative here.