Tapping the Urban Market

Leo quickly realized that building trust was paramount in Manila's competitive market. He focused on establishing strong relationships with local market vendors and small grocery stores. He consistently delivered high-quality dried fish, ensuring freshness and proper packaging. He also offered competitive prices and flexible payment terms, making him a reliable supplier.

Building Relationships and Ensuring Quality:

He regularly visited his suppliers in Catanduanes, ensuring a consistent supply of quality dried fish. He also invested in better storage facilities in Manila, maintaining the freshness of his products. He learned to identify and address any quality issues promptly, building his reputation as a trustworthy supplier.

Expanding Online Sales:

Leo explored online marketplaces like Shopee and Lazada, creating listings for his dried fish. He learned about optimizing product descriptions, using high-quality photos, and managing customer reviews. He also experimented with social media marketing, creating a Facebook page to showcase his products and engage with potential customers.

Online Sales and Expenses:

Shopee/Lazada Fees: He calculated that platform fees, including transaction fees and commission, averaged 10% of sales. Packaging for Online Orders: He purchased bubble wrap, corrugated boxes, and packing tape, costing 300 PHP for a batch of 20 packages. Delivery Costs: He partnered with a local courier service, negotiating a flat rate of 80 PHP per delivery within Metro Manila. Social Media Marketing: He allocated a small budget of 100 PHP per week for boosting posts on Facebook.

Online Sales Example:

He sold 30 packages of dried fish online at 350 PHP per package. Online Sales Income: 30 packages x 350 PHP = 10,500 PHP Shopee/Lazada Fees(10%): 1050 PHP Packaging cost: 300/20 = 15 PHP per package. 15 PHP * 30 Packages = 450 PHP Delivery cost: 80 PHP * 30 packages = 2400 PHP Online profit: 10,500 - 1050 - 450 - 2400 = 6600PHP

Adjusting to Manila's Cost of Living:

Leo adjusted his budget to accommodate the higher cost of living in Manila. He continued to prioritize affordable accommodation and transportation. He also learned to cook simple meals to reduce food expenses.

Daily Expenses (Manila Updated):

Accommodation: 300 PHP/night Food: 250 PHP/day Transportation: 150 PHP/day Phone load/Internet: 50 PHP/day

Increased Sales Income and Updated Capital:

Leo's efforts to build relationships and expand online sales paid off. His sales increased significantly.

Weekly Sales:

Market/Grocery Sales: 25,000 PHP Online Sales: 10,500PHP Total Weekly Sales: 35,500 PHP

Weekly Expenses:

Accommodation (7 nights): 2,100 PHP Food (7 days): 1,750 PHP Transportation (7 days): 1,050 PHP Phone/Internet (7 days): 350 PHP Packaging (Market/Grocery): 500 PHP Packaging (Online): 450 PHP Delivery (Online): 2400 PHP Shopee/Lazada Fees: 1050 PHP Social Media Marketing: 100 PHP Total Weekly Expenses: 9700 PHP

Weekly Profit:

Weekly Profit: 35,500 PHP - 9700 PHP = 25,800 PHP

Updated Capital:

Previous Capital: 24,600 PHP Weekly Profit: 25,800 PHP Remaining Capital: 24,600 PHP + 25,800 PHP = 50,400 PHP

Leo's business was thriving in Manila. He had successfully adapted to the urban environment, built strong relationships with his customers, and expanded his sales through online platforms. He was learning the intricacies of online marketing and carefully managing his finances. He was transforming his dream into a reality, one successful sale at a time.