Patucos

When you think about your business, what are you most proud of?

Firstly, the satisfaction of having managed to set up a business specialising in the sale of accessories, clothing and swimwear for children in just 13 square metres and to have managed to make it profitable for 16 years. Secondly, to have done it alone, without the help of other people, carrying out all the tasks in the chain: purchasing, labelling and physical and online sales. Finally, I am proud to provide a service, especially to the people of the neighbourhood, with quality products and to observe the satisfaction of the customers as I have never had any complaints or claims.

What is the history of your commerce?

As a mother I developed a special interest in childrens clothing and childrens fashion accessories. I had the opportunity to visit many shops all over the world, discover wonderful brands and even learn how to design clothes for my daughters. After several years of thinking about it, I decided to open a small shop in Madrid where parents could find quality childrens clothes from Spanish suppliers. Patucos is 15 years old this year.

What is your professional experience?

The only experience I had before was working in front of the public as I am a pharmacist and all my life I have worked in front of the customer. I had never started a business before, but this was my dream and it has been fulfilled successfully. I became self-employed because I wanted to have my own business and fulfil that goal I was talking about before, even at the risk of taking on more risk. I wanted more independence and freedom even though I knew I would be working a lot more, but for my own company.

How has covid 19 affected your business?

Covid 19 has hit my business hard. I had received all my bath and summer orders when the pandemic broke out and I have to pay for goods that I dont know if I will be able to sell. The quantities are significant. For the first time in these 16 years I have had to ask for an ICO loan to solve this situation and to be able to pay my suppliers, which will force me to be in debt, something that has never happened before. Added to this is the uncertainty of what will happen next. Whether or not the business will be sustainable.