What exactly do you do?  I do two things; a. I allow people living outside of the US to shop online at any US website and have their items delivered directly to their home. b. I ship goods to any part of the world efficiently and at an affordable price.

Why did you decide to start your business?  Traveling outside of the US I noticed a need for people living abroad to shop on US websites and receive their goods in a timely manner at an affordable price.

Was starting up in this economic climate difficult?  Starting a new business in any climate is difficult but this economic downturn made it a greater challenge. Fortunately, I have a finance background and I am very good at managing money so I ensure that whatever financial obligation the business endures it can afford it in the present. In other words, I do not get too head of myself and rely on future earnings or projections to cover expenses. If that makes sense??

Is it hard to compete with the majors in your industry?  Yes, it is hard to compete for the simple fact I have funded my business from my own limited resources. It is obviously not a fair playing field when you have companies that can pour millions into marketing campaigns and my resources are limited. However, limited resources have forced me to be very efficient and give that exceptional customer service so my clients will refer me to their friends and family.

You created a modern store front – why was that important to you? I want to revolutionize the whole shipping experience. I do not want you coming into a dusty grey looking shipping store I want you to feel welcomed and know that you are being serviced by a premium brand. I really admire the way JetBlue revolutionized the air travel experience and I am hoping to do the same with my business.

What is the most interesting thing you have shipped so far? Interesting question. From a humanitarian perspective I shipped a wheelchair to Haiti for an elderly lady that was a victim of the earthquake. She was in the hospital at the time and had to be released because the hospital was destroyed. She cannot walk and for months was not able to get around.

 From an odd perspective I have shipped a $400 toilet seat cover and exotic fish.

 From a “what the hell?” perspective I have had a number of orders for air guns to Trinidad.

At the end of every business day what makes you smile and anticipatie the next day of business?  Providing customers with an exceptional experience.   Seeing the smiles on their face when they leave my store and the great emails and calls I receive from clients abroad.

What are your future plans for NicNatDirect? We just rolled out in West Africa and I am hoping to penetrate the European and Asian markets next year.

Tags: nicnacdirect, nicnatdirect.com, shaun lynda