The Daily Star (TDS): What was the inspiration behind initiating the organisation? Could you share with us the core values, mission, and vision that drive your company's operations?

Md. Ali Afzal (MAA): Krishibid Group started as a way to use my background in agriculture to help farmers and create sustainable solutions. This inspiration came from a deep understanding of the challenges farmers face and a desire to provide meaningful support through innovative practices. The foundation of Krishibid Group lies in a commitment to not only uplift the agricultural community but also to extend this philosophy to other sectors.

Our mission is to contribute to Bangladesh's GDP and agricultural sector with our quality seeds, animal feed, modern machinery, and much more. We are committed to improving farming practices, enhancing efficiency, and fostering sustainable growth. Krishibid Group is dedicated to driving innovation, benefiting the agro sector, and ensuring a prosperous future for Bangladesh's agriculture.

Krishibid Group plays a key role in Bangladesh's agricultural sector. Through our subsidiaries like SEED, FEED, Poultry, Fisheries, Fertiliser, Farm Machinery, and many more, we focus on improving farming practices and boosting agricultural productivity. Our goal is to support the rural economy and contribute to the nation by providing high-quality seeds, animal feed, and modern machinery, fostering sustainable growth in the agro sector and benefiting both farmers and the environment.

In addition to the agro-industry, Krishibid Group Real Estate, along with its sister companies Glorious Lands and Developments Ltd. and Krishibid Properties Ltd., is committed to providing sustainable housing and land solutions. These companies specialise in developing residential plots and flats with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. Our mission is to create high-quality, eco-friendly living spaces that enhance families' lives. We prioritise green spaces, energy efficiency, and thoughtful design in every project, building communities that are both modern and sustainable for future generations.

TDS: What are the major projects your company is currently working on?

MAA: We're working on several exciting projects, including plots, flats, and shares through Krishibid Properties Ltd. and Glorious Lands & Developments Limited (GLDL). Our goal is to offer something for everyone—whether you're looking for land to build your dream home or a smart investment opportunity.

One of our most exciting ongoing projects is the Krishibid Sea Palace, a five-star hotel being built in Kuakata. Once completed, it will combine elegance, comfort, and sustainability, setting a new benchmark for luxury and hospitality in the region. This isn't just a hotel—it's a reflection of our vision to create iconic and responsible developments.

PHOTO COURTESY: KRISHIBID GROUP

TDS: How does your company differentiate itself in the real estate market?

MAA: Krishibid Group Real Estate stands out because we don't just build properties; we create spaces that are innovative and sustainable. Unlike many developers who focus solely on functionality or profitability, we prioritise a balance between quality, aesthetics, and environmental impact. Our approach ensures that every project we undertake is designed with a long-term perspective.

We offer diverse options, including plots, flats, and investment shares, catering to different needs. This variety allows us to serve a broad customer base, from individuals seeking a personal residence to investors looking for profitable ventures. Our focus on premium projects like the Krishibid Sea Palace shows our commitment to delivering excellence. By maintaining this focus, we not only meet but often exceed customer expectations, setting new benchmarks in the real estate market.

TDS: Are there any innovative practices or technologies that your company has adopted recently?

MAA: Yes, we're adopting green technologies like solar energy and rainwater harvesting in our projects. These practices reflect our commitment to sustainability and ensure that our developments contribute positively to the environment. By incorporating renewable energy sources and efficient water management systems, we are reducing the ecological footprint of our projects while providing added value to our customers.

For Krishibid Sea Palace, we're focusing on luxury while incorporating eco-friendly features. This dual approach ensures that guests can enjoy unparalleled comfort without compromising on environmental responsibility. Our goal is to balance modern design with sustainable practices, ensuring long-term value for our customers and the environment. This approach not only aligns with global trends but also reinforces our position as a forward-thinking real estate developer.

TDS: How have customer preferences and demands changed in recent years, shaping your company's offerings?

MAA: Customers today are more conscious of quality, sustainability, and investment opportunities. This shift in preferences reflects a broader awareness of the importance of long-term value and environmental impact. As a result, customers now look for reliable developers offering flexible options like plots, flats, or shares.

We've adapted by providing diverse solutions and ensuring our projects meet modern demands. Our developments, like Krishibid Sea Palace, reflect these priorities by offering luxury and sustainability together. By staying attuned to customer preferences, we ensure that our offerings remain relevant and appealing in a competitive market. This adaptability has been key to our success and will continue to guide our approach in the future.

TDS: How do you evaluate the current state of the real estate market? What are the biggest challenges facing the industry, and how does your company address these challenges?

MAA: The real estate market is competitive, with challenges like high construction costs and changing customer expectations. These challenges require developers to constantly innovate and remain efficient in their operations. The rising costs of materials and labour, combined with increasing demand for sustainability, create a complex landscape for developers.

We address this by staying efficient and offering versatile options like affordable plots and luxurious flats. This flexibility ensures that we can cater to a wide range of customers while maintaining high standards. With large-scale projects like Krishibid Sea Palace, we aim to raise the standard while keeping customer needs at the forefront. By focusing on efficiency and adaptability, we remain resilient in the face of industry challenges.

TDS: What do you foresee as the key trends in the real estate market over the next five years? How is your company planning to adapt to future market conditions?

MAA: Over the next five years, sustainability and luxury will dominate the real estate market. Customers will demand smart technologies and eco-friendly designs, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of environmental stewardship and technological advancement.

Krishibid Group Real Estate is prepared for this shift, with projects like Krishibid Sea Palace that blend luxury and sustainability. We'll continue to innovate and prioritise quality to meet future demands. By staying ahead of these trends, we ensure that our developments remain at the forefront of the market, offering unparalleled value to our customers.