Building a million-dollar business
from your school bench
Introduction
At just 17 years old and still in school, starting your own business is not something most people dare to think about. But for Alexander Giersz, that was exactly when he began building a million-dollar company, Calcuso, an e-commerce platform providing school and office supplies. Alex’s story goes beyond success, it is about an inspiring journey and effective collaboration to turn a small idea into an international e-commerce empire.
Beginnings
As a student, Alex experienced a struggle when buying school items. Recognizing that his peers faced the same challenges, he began selling calculators to his friends and soon expanded to the entire school and eventually to other schools. While most of his friends were swamped with their studies and parties, Alex started building his own business. Remarkably, he was only 17 years old at this time and not even legally eligible to run a business. As bold and smart as he was, how could a 17-year-old boy build and scale an e-commerce platform across Europe? The answer lies in smart partnerships, leveraging technology, and working with a strategic partner: NFQ.
Challenges of the young founder
As a young entrepreneur whose business grew rapidly, Alex faced inevitable challenges. Calcuso encountered numerous technical and operational issues as it expanded.
The manual system they were using could no longer keep up with growing demand. System errors, delays in inventory management, and dissatisfied customers due to late deliveries made it feel like everything seemed to be falling apart. These operational inefficiencies were hurting customer satisfaction and retention, both critical for long-term growth. Alex knew that the empire he was building would soon crumble without significantly changing technology and processes.
A multi-million dollar handshake with NFQ
Before turning to NFQ, Calcuso had collaborated with another vendor, but critical challenges remained unresolved, holding back their full potential. Determined to overcome these challenges, Alex sought a new direction and turned to NFQ, which started as a tentative trial and quickly blossomed into a smooth and strategic partnership.
NFQ didn’t just provide services; we became an integral extension of Alex’s team, aligning with his vision and goals.
Automated 90% of the Manual Tasks
Our Product Information Management (PIM) system automated 90% of the manual tasks that had bogged down operations, allowing Alex to focus on expansion and strategy.
Integrate Agile Project Management
Additionally, by integrating Agile project management, we empowered Calcuso to adapt swiftly to changing market demands, improving team efficiency and overall business agility.
120% increase in Sales
The introduction of our Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool revolutionized customer engagement, resulting in a 120% increase in sales through smarter, more personalized marketing efforts.
120%
in Calcuso’s sales growth
From a school bench to global success
5x Efficiency
The company has increased its operating speed fivefold, making everything from managing orders to delivering products much faster and more efficient.
120% Sales Growth
Additionally, Calcuso has experienced an impressive 120% increase in sales due to a new customer management system that has helped them keep existing customers happy while attracting new ones.
International Reach
Moreover, Calcuso has spread its wings internationally, captivating clients in countries like Austria, France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Portugal.
5x
the company’s efficiency
From a school bench to global success
5x Efficiency
The company has increased its operating speed fivefold, making everything from managing orders to delivering products much faster and more efficient.
120% Sales Growth
Additionally, Calcuso has experienced an impressive 120% increase in sales due to a new customer management system that has helped them keep existing customers happy while attracting new ones.
International Reach
Moreover, Calcuso has spread its wings internationally, captivating clients in countries like Austria, France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Portugal.
120%
in Calcuso’s sales growth
5x
the company’s efficiency
Key takeaways to building dreams from Alex’s journey
From selling calculators to classmates at 17, Alex has transformed Calcuso into a successful e-commerce platform serving millions of customers. And this is just the beginning. With NFQ standing by as a technology partner, Calcuso is well-prepared to face future challenges and poised to conquer new markets with boundless potential.
Through Alex’s inspiring story, we believe there are no limits on what you can achieve, regardless of age or unpredicted challenges. When you have the right mindset, determination, and vision, NFQ will help to make that dream a reality.
Our Services to Calcuso
Product Information Management
Customer Relationship Management
Agile Project Management
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