As the holiday season kicks off, small businesses are making significant strides in local industries. Emma Biggers, a UF Food and Resource Economics alumna, is leading the charge with innovative ideas in Florida’s cotton clothing production.
Balancing Studies and Entrepreneurship
Emma Biggers is not your typical student. While pursuing her law degree at Stetson University in Gulfport, Florida, she also manages her clothing boutique, “Brooklynn’s by Emma,” established in 2022. Emma’s entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured from a young age, having grown up around her parents’ business ventures.
“My parents were in business, and I’ve been around it my whole life,” Emma shares. “I’ve always loved the hustle and the strategic thinking involved in managing a business.”
Taking over one of four store locations from the original owner, Emma benefited from mentorship that eased her transition into business ownership. Her education in the Food and Resource Economics Department provided her with essential financial analysis skills and modern marketing techniques that have been pivotal to her boutique’s success.
Innovating Local Cotton Production
Emma’s hands-on experience with the global clothing supply chain inspired her undergraduate honors thesis. She noticed delays in stocking items due to overseas production, especially around holidays when vendors like those in China pause operations.
“Many of my vendors were celebrating Chinese New Year, leading to longer wait times for stock,” Emma explains. This observation sparked her curiosity about the feasibility of producing 100% cotton clothing locally in Florida, using regionally grown cotton.
Over two semesters, Emma explored the potential of a Florida-based textile industry. She assessed the economic benefits and sustainability of producing cotton t-shirts entirely within the state, aiming to reduce dependency on international suppliers and streamline her supply chain.
Why Local Production Matters:
- Reduced Delays: Faster restocking during peak seasons.
- Economic Boost: Supporting local farmers and manufacturers.
- Sustainability: Lowering carbon footprints by minimizing transportation.
Emma believes that local production can not only benefit her business but also strengthen Florida’s economy by creating jobs and fostering innovation in the textile industry.
Leveraging Education for Business Success
Emma credits her academic background for her ability to navigate the complexities of running a boutique. Courses like Dr. Chen’s marketing class introduced her to strategies such as loss leaders, which she has successfully implemented in her store.
“One thing that sticks out is learning about loss leaders,” Emma recalls. “We discussed how businesses like Costco use products like rotisserie chickens to draw customers through the entire store, ultimately increasing overall sales. I apply similar strategies, such as placing clearance racks at the back to encourage shoppers to browse more of the store.”
This strategic approach, combined with her financial acumen, has allowed Emma to manage her boutique effectively while juggling her studies.
Future Prospects: Building a Local Textile Hub
Emma’s research highlights the potential for Florida to develop a self-sustaining cotton clothing industry. By fostering collaborations between local farmers, manufacturers, and retailers, Florida can become a hub for high-quality, locally produced cotton apparel.
“Producing cotton clothing from start to finish in Florida could revolutionize the industry here,” Emma states. “It would not only ensure timely stock availability but also create a robust local economy.”
Steps Toward Local Production:
- Partnering with Local Farmers: Ensuring a steady supply of high-quality cotton.
- Investing in Manufacturing Technology: Modernizing facilities to handle cotton processing and garment production.
- Marketing Locally Produced Goods: Promoting the benefits of buying locally made clothing to consumers.
By addressing these areas, Emma envisions a future where Florida’s cotton clothing industry thrives, providing sustainable and economically viable options for small businesses and consumers alike.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Emma’s journey is a testament to the power of combining education with entrepreneurial drive. Her ability to apply classroom lessons to real-world business challenges serves as an inspiration to her peers and future business leaders.
“The challenge isn’t just in managing a business,” Emma explains. “It’s about continuously adapting and finding innovative solutions to keep the business thriving.”
Her story underscores the importance of practical education and mentorship in shaping successful entrepreneurs who can make a significant impact on their communities.
