THE noisy decade of the 1990s saw the rise of RTW (ready to wear) clothes shops in the country. Since then, clothes in various colors, sizes, and shapes became available to more people, leaving the small-scale tailoring dress shops thriving in the industry.
The challenge brought by the rise of RTWs did not stop a Kapampangan from realizing his dream of providing people with quality clothing products.
According to Jason Magat, his current business started with eight sewing machines, an investment that his mother funded from more than 20 years in the sewing business.
His mother's tailoring sent him through school and after studying, he never went far and he started his small business.
Jason recalls that his idea of selling tailored shorts came when he came across a store in Manila that sells the same product. He sold the same products but he made sure that his products are of great quality.
He started with a P10,000 capital that he used to buy the materials that he'll need. With the help of his mother who worked for free, he produced his first batch of products and sold them in a price lower by more than half from those sold in Manila.
Jason was able to sell 40 pieces in the first week, with most orders coming from his relatives and friends.
Later on, more people patronized his products and he started having meet-ups in shopping malls. But there were also hard times for him. There were instances when his products were not sold instantly, and some who would order but would never show up. These challenges did not stop Jason. It only helped him to stay strong and to learn more ways in managing his business.
Currently, his product line includes tailored shorts, sweat shorts, button down polo, and easy shirts. He will soon add more products when his flagship store opens in San Fernando.
For Jason, stopping will not lead you anywhere. He says that they will continue thinking of various ways to promote his emerging business. He will remain true to his commitment in providing quality yet affordable products.
In the coming months, more products will be released that will delight the people of Pampanga, and it is just proof that nothing is impossible if you believe. (Dariel Evander Aldana, UA Intern)