The hum and whir of sewing machines productively generating sheets, pillow cases, curtains and table cloths dominates the workroom at Integra Bulgaria client “Ira.” The sewing company, launched in 1990, currently provides jobs to 33 employees, today and has developed into a model Integra client.
Begun by Maria Katranjieva, the company is a prosperous and productive operation located in the southern Bulgarian city of Kazanluk in the beautiful Rose Valley. Integra has invested $34,000 in Ira since 2002. This modest capital infusion allowed the company to expand, purchase their own building, and improve working conditions for staff by air conditioning the facility.
Ira products are now available in major cities around Bulgaria and clothing distributors in both Greece and Spain use the company to manufacture products for sale through their channels. The diversification of customers indicates a growing stability. Gross sales for 2003 were a healthy $290,000. Maria and her son Stoicho, who serves as business manager for the operation, have benefited from several business training seminars offered by Integra. Their continued presence encourages others to believe they can succeed as well.
The company serves as an example to aspiring entrepreneurs. And the impact of this growing company doesn’t end with business success. A hallmark of Integra’s philosophy for successful companies includes the concept of “Corporate Social Responsibility” (CSR). A key tenet of the CSR strategy encourages businesses to be intentional about hiring those most in need of employment. It’s a way of encouraging a spirit of “giving back” to the community and a key component of long term success.
Ira has hired women-at-risk particularly in need of jobs. These at-risk circumstances stem from divorce, abandonment, or in some instances the disability or death of the husband. Addressing the employment needs of such women enhances the impact of an already successful company—a true win-win situation. Practically speaking this priority of concern for those in need fits perfectly with Integra’s values to serve others. The impact of true faith guides the daily decisions of those embracing it as well. The Katranjieva family is active in their local church. They sponsored the participation of two Bulgarian pastors and their wives for a training retreat held last fall.
Although not a Fortune 500 company (yet!), Ira is a pristine example of Integra’s strategy at work in the real world. Through training and guidance, it has become an ethically run, profitable operation. Its prospects for long-term stability are good. Maria’s priority for giving back to the church and her community develops a lessened dependence on a constant flow of western money.
