In the world of luxury ceramics, the name Jinggala stands out as one of the most prominent brands, with its products featured in prestigious locations such as the Amanzoe Hotel in Greece and the Rockefeller Center in New York. Under the leadership of Ade Waworuntu, who took over the company during a challenging time, Jinggala has achieved remarkable successes over its fifty years since establishment.
Founded in 1976 by Ade's father, Wijaya Waworuntu, and New Zealand artist Brent Hesselink, the company started in a small workshop behind the family home in Sanur. As tourism flourished in Bali, Jinggala became the primary supplier of household items in the region, with its first client being the Tanjung Sari Hotel, which remains one of its most notable customers.
Event Details
Under Ade's leadership, who prefers to be called 'Ibu' (mother) rather than president, the company faced significant challenges following her father's death in 2001, followed by Hesselink's departure. However, Ade was the only one among nine siblings who showed a genuine interest in ceramics, making her the natural choice to lead the company during those tough times.
When Ade took the reins, she confronted a major crisis after the Bali bombings in 2002, which led to a collapse in the tourism sector. Nevertheless, Ade managed to restore confidence among her employees and clients, assuring them that there was light at the end of the tunnel. With the help of her dedicated team, she was able to navigate through those difficult times.
Background & Context
Jinggala was established during a period when Bali was experiencing a tourism boom, having hosted the first ASEAN summit in the same year. As the number of hotels and restaurants increased, Jinggala emerged as a leader in the ceramics industry in the region, offering a diverse range of products from plates to wooden decorations.
Today, Jinggala is considered one of the leading brands in ceramics, producing approximately 20,000 pieces monthly and employing around 150 people. Despite increasing competition in the market, Jinggala's products continue to be used in luxury hotels and major events, such as the G20 summit in Bali in 2022.
Impact & Consequences
Ade has successfully transformed Jinggala into a global brand, with its products symbolizing quality and craftsmanship. Despite the challenges, the company has achieved significant revenue growth, with direct-to-consumer sales accounting for about 70% of total revenue.
Ade's strategy focuses on expanding market reach by developing a direct-to-consumer sales platform, making Jinggala's products accessible to a larger number of customers, not just hotels and restaurants. This shift has helped bolster the company's position in the global market.
Regional Significance
The story of Jinggala illustrates how creativity and commitment can lead to significant successes amid challenges. The lessons learned from Ade's experience can inspire entrepreneurs in the Arab world, especially in the fields of handicrafts and traditional industries.
In conclusion, Jinggala serves as a model for how to turn crises into opportunities, reflecting the strength of will and dedication to work.