Read the following situation prudently and answer the questions that follow: [30] Health and More (HM) was established at a sub-urban area of Kathmandu in 2018. It was established with an initial capital of Rs. 30 million with 50 staff by a team of three young entrepreneurs: Ram, Hari and Rita. Ram is a member of a traditional clothing business family. Hari and Sita are fresh MBA graduates. HM served mainly Nepali food items out of which 3 items were developed by own self. It also had a well-equipped Gym with competent trainers. The owners claim that HM is a unique concept of providing a mixture of food, health and ambience. In the initial years, its turnover was satisfactory. On an average, it served 300 customers per day both food and health lovers. Its net profit margin was around 20 percent of the sales. Its relatively lower price, natural environment and friendly services attracted the customers. The success of HM for the first year of its operation inspired the entrepreneurs to expand its branches. At the beginning of 2019, they started two new branches in other parts of the city with the same system, products and physical facilities. The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread disruption to every sector of the society. Given the travel restrictions and lockdown imposed by the Government, the restaurants were completely shut A SHOT ON OPPO down. As such, HM was also completely closed down for around 6 months in 2020. To address the financial crisis, it laid off 80 percent of its employees. The rest 20 percent were only paid 50 percent of their basic salary. Moreover, HM was forced to ensure social distancing and proper sanitization which increased its operating expenses. Its operating incomes decreased to 25 percent of the previous incomes. Out of the 3, the one initially established was in. break even and the rests two were in heavy losses. From the end of 2021, the situation gradually improved. The government relaxed lockdown gradually. HM started selling its products online. The employees previously laid off were gradually called back. Now, HM plans to open 3 new branches in other areas inside Kathmandu valley. It believes that it can get economies of scale by doing so. The entrepreneurs collectively argue that poor institutional support is a major hindrance to fight against unexpected situations like covid 19 and develop businesses in a sustainable way. Questions: a) How did the entrepreneurs of HM identify business opportunity? What are the other ways of exploring business opportunities? Write. b) Do you think the owners in the above situation are innovative entrepreneurs? Support your viewpoint. c) Critically analyze the decision of HM to open 3 new branches.
