The cars took over the world by storm in the twentieth century as the preferred mode of transportation. After the industrial age, everyone wanted to be faster, and this need lead to the commercialization of cars. Cars, like any machinery, need constant care and attention to be able to work in their optimum conditions. This is where Hashmi Co. comes in, specialized in auto-electrical parts; it takes care of all of your car’s needs. We got up close and personal with Hassam Hashmi and Hasnain Hashmi, the men who run Hashmi Co. Like their area of expertise, the men who run the business are sharp and smart. Their brand Denso is a titan amongst auto electronical parts.
How long have you guys been in the auto-electric business?
We have been in the business world for 18 years now. Our father actually started this company. For us this is more than just a corporation as our father nurtured it like he nurtured his own biological son.
Why this specific business of all the others?
We (my father, my brother and I) chose the auto electric parts because we were always intrigued by cars. Instead of their exterior it was always the inner working parts that drew our attention. This passion was really strong in our father, and we inherited it from him.
How do you see this business in Pakistan?
We think Pakistan is entering a new economic era. Cars used to be an elitist accessory but now that has drastically changed. The traffic jams in Liberty Chowk are proof of that (laughs). The business is flourishing and a lot of people are heading to the auto electric parts as a viable business option. Having said that, there is always room for improvement. The Pakistani government can further facilitate people in this business.
What have your main challenges been in this business?
The biggest challenge is to stay innovative. Everyone in Hashmi Co. actually enjoys challenges as it drives us to do our best. Thus we gladly take on this challenge. Other companies also provide a really healthy competition in this industry, which is really important for overall quality of a product.
Who is your greatest inspiration?
That has got to be our father. His determination really astounds me as we witnessed first-hand how he created this company from scratch. Now, this company is one of the leading names in the auto-electric industry in Pakistan.
What is your favourite aspect in being an entrepreneur?
We are our own boss. We get to decide how we want to do things, and when to do them. Our employees are like our family, so they get the liberty in helping out with these decisions. Having the freedom to make decisions and passing that freedom to others is the best part of being an entrepreneur.
You run a very big company. Would you call yourself a successful entrepreneur?
Not yet. We see this company go really far and compete with the international market. We still have long journey in front of us.
Any kind of advice you’d like to share with people who have just started their own business?
There are no shortcuts to success. We know most of us have heard this, but everything demands hard work. Your craft is like your child, it demands all the attention and care one can muster. So just don’t give up, stay positive and keep working hard!
