Products Becoming Obsolete
For over three decades, Analaura Robles’ stationery store has experienced technological changes and the obsolescence of certain products, such as discs and monographs. This has forced the business to reinvent itself.
Before widespread internet access, completing homework meant visiting stationery stores to buy monographs or biographies of historical figures, often committing the error of pasting images before copying text. However, with online information readily available, these products have become obsolete.
A Young Entrepreneur’s Perspective
Originally from Monterrey, Analaura Robles, now 22, has witnessed the digital transformation and its impact on her family’s stationery store since childhood. She started working full-time a year ago, managing the store located in a school zone from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM. The store has been her mother’s business for 33 years.
Analaura recalls the decline in monograph and biography orders since 2016 due to digitalization. “I remember hearing about the decline because monographs (stamps) weren’t being used, and in primary school, none of my classmates carried them; they only brought printed images.”
To prevent the decline of these discontinued products, they donated them to schools or newly-opened stationery stores, as customers requested them for special occasions like Mexico’s Revolution Day or patriotic holidays.
The Pandemic Accelerated Digitalization
The pandemic dealt a significant blow to the business, with class suspensions being the most impactful. Despite this, Analaura swiftly acted by promoting products and arranging deliveries through social media and Facebook, as sales dropped by 50-60%.
With online and TV classes, demand for prints increased, which could be ordered via WhatsApp. This shift helped manage the store’s economic situation.
Currently, copy charges are two pesos, and printing costs three with internet service. Additionally, they process personal documents like CURP for 10 pesos and assist with government program registrations, such as scholarships.
Embracing Innovation
Supporting the store during challenging times sparked Analaura’s interest in dedicating herself fully to the family business and adopting innovation, like introducing trendy products and adapting to market novelties.
She recognized that customers no longer carry cash, so she increased the use of cards and transfers, offering multiple payment methods.
Future Plans
Analaura plans to expand the stationery store with her mother, improve customer service, and manage high-demand periods more efficiently.
