Entrepreneurs Michael Fhima, 35, and Eric Wazana, 39, launched graphic tee company Lucky 7 after daydreaming in their university seats at HEC Montreal. Nine years later, they count selling one million tees as a major milestone and are looking for major expansion into the US market…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Lucky 7 is a graphic tee company with an edge. We always come up with the newest fits and printing techniques – always with the most innovative logos and verbiage.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
It all started daydreaming warming up my university seats at HEC Montreal. Growing up in the Florida shops selling tees on the beaches, it was a natural process for us to come up with a similar vibe for the Canadian market.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is the development aspect of the line, coming up with the newest logos every season.
Touching up on various new fabrications is always exciting. The most challenging part is expanding into new markets. Our new target market for the past year has been Europe. We are officially sold now in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Australia and many more.
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
We want to develop the US market in a big way. We would love to have a full distribution deal for that country.
What does success look like to you? To me success is how your company is perceived by the markets.
The more people want your product the better success rate you have.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Selling our first million tees!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Never forget that it all starts with a plan; when your plan is ready change it into goals, the rest will come to you.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Montreal Children’s Hospital Charity, Noa Joly-Messier Tennis Charity for the St. Justine Hospital, Defi Tetes Rasees for the Leukemia Foundation. No matter how successful you become in your professional life, it’s always important to remember to give back to your immediate community. Never get so caught up in work that you forget this.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone all the way.
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
Roller hockey, ice hockey, hockey and… hockey.
Photo: Michael Fhima