“Here in the Philippines, our vision is to promote health to all individuals. Therefore, our products are fresh, natural, and preservative-free,” a calling which Kathleen Say, Fruit of Life, Inc.’s VP for Marketing, lived by since the company was established in 1995. For 12 years, the company focused on coconut by-products and promotes the health benefits of the popular tropical fruit.
Fruits of Life, Inc. has a variety of coconut-based products. From virgin coconut oil (VCO) to creams and even coconut jelly, the company assures consumers that quality and safety are induced in every product.
But among the company’s healthy offerings, the Lipa Fresh Buko Juice is the most popular. Aside from its fresh, mouth-watering flavor, Fruits of Life saw the potential of buko juice as a health drink.
The healthy benefits of Lipa Fresh Buko Juice
Made from the best raw materials and ingredients, Lipa Fresh Buko Juice is guaranteed to be very refreshing while it gives you the essential nutrients needed for your health.
Coconut, in general, was believed to be a “miracle” fruit for having numerous health benefits. Among the most popular benefit of coconut juice is that it is a detoxifying beverage. Most health experts recommend drinking coconut juice when experiencing urinary tract infection (UTI).
However in a recent study conducted by the University of the Philippines Los Baños, coconut juice was proven to be an alternative for artificially made sports drink. Just like the sports drink, coconut juice has electrolytes that helps replenish lost body fluids during rigorous activities. It is also very rich in potassium, a lot higher than the content of a sports drink.
“Lipa Fresh Buko Juice is also a natural sports drink. It helps retain the fluids needed for your active lifestyle, at the same time, it cleanses the kidneys from toxins. You will feel the cleansing effect after you drink Lipa Fresh Buko Juice,” Kathleen relates.
Buko in a bottle
Before, fresh buko juice is often served in its natural shell. Most people believed that serving them in its natural shell preserves the freshness and natural taste of the juice. However, many consumers take into consideration the convenience of drinking a coconut juice. Thus, a new packaging of the fresh buko juice began.
Kathleen, together with her team at Fruits for Life, Inc, saw the need for re-packaging on fresh buko juice. From its natural shell, the juice was packaged in plastic bottles making it convenient, sanitized, and leak-proof.
However, the major concern for this innovation on buko juice was the preservation of the quality and taste of the fresh buko juice. Thorough research and observing food safety standards, Lipa Fresh Buko Juice does not compromise the natural freshness of the coconut.
The humble, yet, successful beginnings of Lipa Fresh Buko Juice
With only five people working in both production and delivery when Fruits of Life first started, the company was still able to sell a quality product to the market. Most of their first clients were food establishments who, up to now, carry Lipa Fresh Buko Juice.
Among the company’s first clients were popular restaurants and establishments such as Mann Hann, Chopstix, Sun Moon, New Sun Beam, House of Minis, DEC, and the ADB (Asian Development Bank) cafeteria.
The list of clients has grown and has even distributed to other outlets such as sports centers, badminton centers, golf course clubhouses, health institutions, entertainment center and even more food establishments. Added to the list are Riviera Badminton Centers, Wack-Wack Country Golf Club, Philippine Navy Golf Club, Villamor Air Base Golf Club, Music 21, Power Plant Mall, Superbowl of China, Sukhotai, Subway, Phobac, Tender Bob’s, Circo Grille, Thai B-B-Q, Macau, Zaifu, Isshin, Longrain, Milky Way, Dencio’s, Chicken Bacolod, Hapchang, ABS-CBN cafeteria, and GMA cafeteria.
Lipa Fresh Buko Juice are also sold at SM, Robinsons, and Unimart supermarkets.
Fruits of Life – braving the odds and reaping rewards
For more than 10 years, Fruits of Life has always maintained the quality of its coconut by-products. The company follows very strict quality control and sanitation procedures in order to ensure customers’ safety and satisfaction.
The company’s high regard for quality products and good manufacturing process was acknowledged through its BFAD (Bureau of Food and Drugs) approval in 1997. Two years after, Lipa Fresh Buko Juice underwent a strict Japanese quality standards test. Fruits of Life, once again, passed and was allowed its first airfreight shipment to Japan.
The achievements of Lipa Fresh Buko Juice brought about the development of more new products such as: Lipa Fresh Buko Melon (a combination of buko and melon juice), Lipa Miracle Oil (the company’s first virgin coconut oil product), and the Coconut Juice in Can.
With the company’s ingenious use of the coconut, the Philippine Coconut Authority awarded Lipa Fresh Buko Juice the Product Processor Innovator Award for Buko Juice. Fruits of Life sees the recognition as the most valuable for it was given by the authority in the coconut industry. Also, the company considers it as a true recognition for its efforts in promoting coconut juice as a health drink.
Be Healthy. Go Global.
Fruits of Life did not limit its market to the Philippines. In fact, the company has joined international food fairs to promote its products in the global market.
The company first participated at the Asian Ethnic Food Fair in 2000. Organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the fair helped food entrepreneurs like Fruits for Life, Inc. to create awareness on their products to the local and international market. On the same event, the company launched the new packaging of Lipa Fresh Buko Juice. Since joining its first-ever international trade show, Fruits of Life carry on with IFEX (International Food Exhibition), formerly the Asian Ethnic Food Fair, as a regular exhibitor.
Only good words Kathleen gives to CITEM’s support for her company. Through CITEM-organized fairs, she met a lot of food distributors and importers abroad where in it opened satisfactory business opportunities for her company. “I have traveled and met a lot of food distributors and importers abroad. They often say that our country offers many unique and quality products,” Kathleen relates.
Fruits of Life also supports the governments’ campaign for better product packaging that will make Filipino-made products competitive in the global market. “Packaging says a lot about the company and their product image and professionalism. If you look at products nowadays from China or Thailand, their packaging has been very creative and attractive and almost at par with Japan. This attracts the consumers and urges them to buy,” Kathleen adds.
Aside from better product packaging, the company is determined to develop more coconut products. And although many claims that their beverages are better, healthier, and more natural, Kathleen believes that nothing beats the freshness and the health benefits of the coconut juice. Fruits of Life will continue to research for new innovations that will make their buko products fresh, well and healthier to meet the satisfaction of their customers.
“We would like to continue creating awareness and appreciation on the great benefits of the coconut and the fruit of life. Our vision is to have a healthy world,” Kathleen ends.
For more information on Fruits of Life’s products, visit their website at www.lipabuko.com.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Lightworks Resources, Inc. : Creating timeless artworks
Contemporary yet timeless. An inspiration that dwells in the interconnections of all life forms. Lightworks Resources, Inc. is a product of one man’s masterful creation that has fascinated the world of design.
Twenty years ago, Ravi Singh, a director of natural medicine, has a hobby of décor and furniture making. In his garage and lanai, he crafts unconventional home pieces that are functional. His collection, however, grew which seem to be unbearable to fit in their house. Supportive of her husband’s enthusiasm in design, Rashmi Tolentino-Singh suggested to make Ravi’s hobby into a business. In 1989, Lightworks was established.
Lightworks first used narra as their main material. This was because of Ravi’s fascination over the sturdy Philippine narra wood. However, strict environment laws prohibited the company to use narra, and also, there is a limited market for narra products. “We can’t export narra. Narra has a specific market that’s why we decided to do other product lines.” Rashmi relates. Lightworks sought other materials like ceramics. But the business on ceramics was not doing well because of the competition in China and Vietnam.
Despite the hurdles, Lightworks did not stop creating new home ideas. They used much bolder materials, which at that time, the design industry finds it modern and avant-garde. Using materials such as copper, silver, gold, and fiberglass. They gilded these materials and transformed them into gargantuan fixtures that are high-end and ageless.
A collection of high-quality home furnishings
At lightworks, Ravi heads the design team. He often gets his inspiration from the bounty of nature, human life, and the lotus flower – all of which has a symbolical meaning in their lives.
The design process does not take too much time. But deliberating on what the market would expect from them may take a while. In this aspect, Rashmi assists Ravi on how to market their products. Each product underwent series of research. Not wanting to disappoint their clients, the Singhs see to it that they come up with something that is striking and memorable to whoever sees it. Recognizing the product itself is a way of associating it to the Lightworks brand.
The present collections of Lightworks are mostly metal structures, although, some are made out of fiberglass, wood, stones, and natural fiber. These metal sculptures underwent a process called gilding, which they also used in their ceramics. Gilding is an age-old process of covering an item with a thin layer of gold. This is common in East and South Asia. The gilding process, which Lightworks is known for, was a product of Ravi’s research.
Lightworks presents products that are well-thought of. All of them are exciting to see and can be described as beyond reproach. Apart from wall arts, they also have indoor/outdoor furniture; large sculptural plant holder, vases; murals, panels, tiles; wall art discs, mirrors, sconces; water sculptures or fountains for table, wall and large sculptural installations; tabletops like vases, bowls, trivets; architectural pieces like door floor tiles, basins, platforms, claddings. Creating these items may take a month or more depending on the size and type of mold of the product. However, buyers are willing to wait because they know that Lightworks gives them only the best.
All it needs: hardwork and optimism
For almost 20 years in the business, thee company has shown great passion for the art, relentless dedication and service to their clients, and most of all, they have helped improved the lives of almost 300 people. With all of their hardwork, the design-led and excellence-driven partnership of Ravi and Rashmi put Lightworks ahead of its game.
The successes that Lightworks has gained served as their motivation to be at their best. They do not rest on their laurels, but, treat it as a reminder that buyers expect a lot from them and that they have to surpass their high expectations. And though they have done very well in their craft, Ravi and Rashmi continues to explore trendier designs for their upcoming product lines. As Rashmi puts it, “when you say challenge, I say it is an opportunity. I turn it positive, otherwise, I would be stressed. We find an opportunity to make it better.”
The Singhs’ optimistic views on the business seem to reflect in their products. There is a feel of well-being and joy that is embodied in varied forms of sculptural and decorative home pieces.
Making a mark in the international market
Lightworks was a hobby atelier that has become a successful export furniture company. As Rashmi recalls, she never thought that their company could become big and would be recognized internationally. The Singhs are grateful to the people who have opened the doors for them, particularly, former heads of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), Mina Gabor and Precy Omikting. CITEM has seen the potential of this budding company during their early years.
When they first joined a trade show in Frankfurt, Germany, Lightworks brought with them an enormous wall art which amazed the buyers. The company’s display stood out despite the small booth of the Philippines at the show. The positive feedback from Germany opened a lot of opportunities for Lightworks. They also joined other international trade shows like Macef in Milan, Maison et Objet in Paris, Ambiente and Tendence in Frankfurt. Lightworks also exhibits their products in some shows in the US, other countries in Europe, and Asia. Their participation brought them a number of reputable clients who were honored to carry the Lightworks brand.
“Our distributors, when they join shows in Europe, they represent us. They use Lightworks sa booth nila. Unlike when other distributor shows, the product is just part of the theme. We have a strong presence on Italy and also in Paris because we are the only company that represents the Philippines in Maison and carries the Philippine flag,” Rashmi proudly shares.
Up to this day, Lightworks is also an active participant for the Manila F.A.M.E. International, CITEM bi-annual trade show. It has opened another company, Bato Balani, which is based in Cebu. Bato Balani offers a wide range of products that uses different materials like shells.
For more information on Lightworks, log on to www.lightworks.com.ph
Twenty years ago, Ravi Singh, a director of natural medicine, has a hobby of décor and furniture making. In his garage and lanai, he crafts unconventional home pieces that are functional. His collection, however, grew which seem to be unbearable to fit in their house. Supportive of her husband’s enthusiasm in design, Rashmi Tolentino-Singh suggested to make Ravi’s hobby into a business. In 1989, Lightworks was established.
Lightworks first used narra as their main material. This was because of Ravi’s fascination over the sturdy Philippine narra wood. However, strict environment laws prohibited the company to use narra, and also, there is a limited market for narra products. “We can’t export narra. Narra has a specific market that’s why we decided to do other product lines.” Rashmi relates. Lightworks sought other materials like ceramics. But the business on ceramics was not doing well because of the competition in China and Vietnam.
Despite the hurdles, Lightworks did not stop creating new home ideas. They used much bolder materials, which at that time, the design industry finds it modern and avant-garde. Using materials such as copper, silver, gold, and fiberglass. They gilded these materials and transformed them into gargantuan fixtures that are high-end and ageless.
A collection of high-quality home furnishings
At lightworks, Ravi heads the design team. He often gets his inspiration from the bounty of nature, human life, and the lotus flower – all of which has a symbolical meaning in their lives.
The design process does not take too much time. But deliberating on what the market would expect from them may take a while. In this aspect, Rashmi assists Ravi on how to market their products. Each product underwent series of research. Not wanting to disappoint their clients, the Singhs see to it that they come up with something that is striking and memorable to whoever sees it. Recognizing the product itself is a way of associating it to the Lightworks brand.
The present collections of Lightworks are mostly metal structures, although, some are made out of fiberglass, wood, stones, and natural fiber. These metal sculptures underwent a process called gilding, which they also used in their ceramics. Gilding is an age-old process of covering an item with a thin layer of gold. This is common in East and South Asia. The gilding process, which Lightworks is known for, was a product of Ravi’s research.
Lightworks presents products that are well-thought of. All of them are exciting to see and can be described as beyond reproach. Apart from wall arts, they also have indoor/outdoor furniture; large sculptural plant holder, vases; murals, panels, tiles; wall art discs, mirrors, sconces; water sculptures or fountains for table, wall and large sculptural installations; tabletops like vases, bowls, trivets; architectural pieces like door floor tiles, basins, platforms, claddings. Creating these items may take a month or more depending on the size and type of mold of the product. However, buyers are willing to wait because they know that Lightworks gives them only the best.
All it needs: hardwork and optimism
For almost 20 years in the business, thee company has shown great passion for the art, relentless dedication and service to their clients, and most of all, they have helped improved the lives of almost 300 people. With all of their hardwork, the design-led and excellence-driven partnership of Ravi and Rashmi put Lightworks ahead of its game.
The successes that Lightworks has gained served as their motivation to be at their best. They do not rest on their laurels, but, treat it as a reminder that buyers expect a lot from them and that they have to surpass their high expectations. And though they have done very well in their craft, Ravi and Rashmi continues to explore trendier designs for their upcoming product lines. As Rashmi puts it, “when you say challenge, I say it is an opportunity. I turn it positive, otherwise, I would be stressed. We find an opportunity to make it better.”
The Singhs’ optimistic views on the business seem to reflect in their products. There is a feel of well-being and joy that is embodied in varied forms of sculptural and decorative home pieces.
Making a mark in the international market
Lightworks was a hobby atelier that has become a successful export furniture company. As Rashmi recalls, she never thought that their company could become big and would be recognized internationally. The Singhs are grateful to the people who have opened the doors for them, particularly, former heads of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), Mina Gabor and Precy Omikting. CITEM has seen the potential of this budding company during their early years.
When they first joined a trade show in Frankfurt, Germany, Lightworks brought with them an enormous wall art which amazed the buyers. The company’s display stood out despite the small booth of the Philippines at the show. The positive feedback from Germany opened a lot of opportunities for Lightworks. They also joined other international trade shows like Macef in Milan, Maison et Objet in Paris, Ambiente and Tendence in Frankfurt. Lightworks also exhibits their products in some shows in the US, other countries in Europe, and Asia. Their participation brought them a number of reputable clients who were honored to carry the Lightworks brand.
“Our distributors, when they join shows in Europe, they represent us. They use Lightworks sa booth nila. Unlike when other distributor shows, the product is just part of the theme. We have a strong presence on Italy and also in Paris because we are the only company that represents the Philippines in Maison and carries the Philippine flag,” Rashmi proudly shares.
Up to this day, Lightworks is also an active participant for the Manila F.A.M.E. International, CITEM bi-annual trade show. It has opened another company, Bato Balani, which is based in Cebu. Bato Balani offers a wide range of products that uses different materials like shells.
For more information on Lightworks, log on to www.lightworks.com.ph
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