ENTREPRENEURSHIP : interview with Rajaâ Bel Mahrez (GE 2003), founder of Rue des Consuls

Almost four years ago, EDHEC Alumni supported Rajaâ Bel Mahrez (GE 2003) in setting up her company, Rue des Consuls. The EDHEC graduate and entrepreneur looks back on her early experiences and offers a few tips.

EDHEC Alumni: Rajaâ, can you explain briefly how Rue des Consuls came about?
Rue des Consuls is a brand selling decor and household items inspired by Eastern styles. Tableware, furnishings, lighting, household linen, cosmetic box sets, leather goods and more. Our mission is to make the style of Moroccan Riads available to all. We have an online store (www.ruedesconsuls.com) as well as a concept store in Paris. 

EA: Four years after the launch, how would you assess this entrepreneurial adventure?
Four years already! And it’s still every bit as fascinating! Some great successes as well as failures, which in the long term are just as worthwhile as the successes. Every day I define my work, what sets us apart and above all the appeal of what we offer, I guess you’d call that experience. Combined with the creative energy to do business, that experience makes me feel better and better as time goes by. 

EA: Have you ever made use of the network of EDHEC graduates?
Yes, but perhaps not as is generally intended. The EDHEC network I use the most is the group of people who studied with me and who have gone on to develop other skills and experience different things. My company can’t afford to hire expert consultants to solve every problem. But between EDHEC graduates, a solution can be found over lunch. I’m a big fan of that kind of networking.

EA: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs?
My advice is summarised in a book I’m quite fond of – “Rework”.

EA: What are the next steps for Rue des Consuls going forward?
The autumn will be busy, with a new collection coming out, collaborative projects planned with other labels, exhibitions and more. 

More informations : www.ruedesconsuls.com
Rue des Consuls
10 cour du Marché Saint Antoine VIADUC DES ARTS
75012 PARIS