Ulrich Kellerer is an inspirational business leader, international speaker, and mental health activist from Munich, Germany. For over twenty years Kellerer worked in the European fashion industry as the founder and CEO of the German clothing line, Faro Fashion, which took over distribution rights for the brand CLOSED (the leading European fashion company for women’s and men’s sportswear) in Bavaria – south Germany. Kellerer is the co-author of The Soul of Success with Jack Canfield and the author of the recently released title: One Moment Can Change Your Life: Extraordinary Stories about Ordinary People. Today, Kellerer's life is dedicated to fighting the depression epidemic and promoting mental wellness in the workplace. We had a chance to interview Kellerer and asked about his story, how he started his career and his future plans.
Tell us your story. Why did you start your business?
Growing up I had been put through more tragic events than others. I dealt with nearly every member in my immediate family passing at young ages, through tragic events as well as my mother becoming paralyzed. I myself faced many health issues and a near death experience while growing up. But I maintained one focus in life and that was to be free from negativity and become a successful independent.
How did you come up with your business name?
For a while we had been in business with partners that were located in Italy. Our company worked closely with the distribution for Italian brand and the restaurants it was delivered to. “il faro” was the name of one of those restaurants, the name stood for lighthouse. Growing up I always had a passion for lighthouses, so when it came time to name the company this felt like a perfect fit.
Tell us about your products and services. How do you help clients?
We are a trading company that specializes in the import of high-end Italian fashion wear. Most recently we have focused in on men and women’s sportswear and have teamed up with celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Patrick Dempsey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Katie Holmes, Drew Barrymore etc. to help brand and showcase our products. As a business we help advise our clients on the latest fashion styles and the newest upcoming trends.
What makes you unique? What is your unique selling proposition (USP)?
As a business we focus on small companies that design and create their clothing by hand. We use this as a sales position by highlighting the specialization it takes using tradition and quality to create our products. We focus on our selling skills using our tenacious personality and the import of our high-end Italian fashion wear to place us at the top.
Where do you see your business in the next 3-5 years?
Our hopes for the future of our business will be to continue on our successful path and continue in growing the business as well. The businesses that will survive are the ones focusing on quality products, trust and loyalty. Our business practices and implements these each and everyday and will continue to thrive through these aspects consistently.
Any advice you would give to entrepreneurs and business owners?
There is no success in selling or promoting false ideas and products to consumers. Be authentic, do not try to copy or duplicate someone else brand. Borrowed ideas and thoughts can never go as far as your own. Always remember to help and then sell to build loyalty and trust between you and the consumer.
What is your favorite business quote and why?
“If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.” – Mark Twain
This quote states the most valuable aspect in business, which is truth. If you build a business off anything other than this, your will set yourself up for failure. Being truthful is more powerful than we think; it is not just in words but also in thoughts and feelings. As a business if you do not believe in your product, neither will the consumer. You have to be honest and truthful about the product and your business, creating loyalty and trust.
What have been some of your achievements that you are most proud of? Why?
I am most proud of helping young people see the positivity in life and helping them get a start in their careers. As well as helping with assisted care for the older generation. Since 2013 every week I take time to read in the nursing home where I lost my mother. I do this for charity because after all they are the ones who brought us into and created this great life for us, they deserve the best while they are still here.
Anything else additional you want to tell our readers?
Do not take the life that you are given for granted. If you are blessed with a good life, give back to the people and the world around you to help make it a better place. We have a short time here on earth try to make an impact during that time. Always remember, you can always be positive even in the situations where we have nothing, we have our minds.