1. Please introduce your business and share your role. 

I am Apple Jatikate, the Co-founder and Managing Director of Asiatic, a renowned massage boutique with highly skilled therapists. At Asiatic, we strive to create a  relaxing and calming atmosphere where customers can experience the wonders of our  signature “Asiatic Thai massage.” 

I lead a team of experienced therapists committed to providing excellent care and ensuring clients’ well-being. Our therapists consult with clients to understand their needs and suggest the most appropriate treatment to achieve the desired outcome. We take immense pride in combining traditional and authentic Thai massage techniques with a modern and comfortable setting. 

Our services are available to everyone, including athletes, young entrepreneurs, and individuals seeking relaxation, stress relief, and physical renewal. 

2. What’s your backstory, what kind of challenges did you face, and how did you come up with your business idea? 

We’ve been in the health and wellness industry for over a decade. Our journey began in 2009 when we established ourselves as one of London’s busiest Thai massage places. We built a thriving business focused on helping people achieve total well-being. However, the global pandemic in 2020 presented significant setbacks for businesses worldwide, and our business was no exception. The clients could not visit us, and business came to a standstill. 

We quickly adapted to the changing situation, brainstormed, and devised a new idea to revamp our business. In 2021, we rebranded as Asiatic, revamping our space and services to reflect better a modern fusion of Thai practices and a serene environment.  This involved completely transforming our shop’s interior, creating a new logo, and implementing an extensive rebranding effort.  

As we began to regain momentum in 2022, another setback struck when the government ordered the closure of all businesses. However, we did not let this deter us. In December 2023, we strategically decided to open a new massage establishment in the Islington area. We select this location for its convenience and the flexibility to accommodate our growing clientele.

Our business idea stemmed from a deep passion for wellness and a desire to provide our clients Professional Thai massage services in London. 

3. How did you prepare for and go about your launch? 

We understood the importance of generating awareness before opening our doors. We strategically partnered with bloggers, YouTubers, and social media influencers who are preferably popular in the health and wellness industry. Their candid assessments and firsthand encounters translate into trust-filled endorsements.  

Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting Tao Chi Kai, a renowned YouTuber and content creator known for his uplifting and mindful lifestyle content, at our Asiatic  Thai Massage Islington branch. During his visit, Tao Chi Kai experienced our signature Thai massage therapy. He was so impressed that he shared his phenomenal  experience with his followers, highlighting our commitment to providing exceptional  experiences and promoting wellness and relaxation.” 

Our preparation involved a systematic and holistic approach to ensure a successful launch and a strong start for our business.  

4. Since launching, what types of marketing campaigns and designs have worked best to attract and retain customers? 

Asiatic has strongly emphasized multifaceted marketing strategies and captivating designs to connect with audiences since its inception. This strategy involves continuously refining our website design to ensure it effectively communicates our brand image and compels visitors. This includes simplifying the booking process,  enhancing information accessibility, and improving website navigation.  

Most importantly, our website is a gateway to a wealth of content curated for clients’  needs, conveniently updated and easy to navigate. 

We invest in Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) to ensure our website is easy to find and ranks higher in SERP.

We also run targeted Ad campaigns on Instagram that include special offers,  discounts, and promotions to attract new customers and encourage repeat business. 

We strive to build an aesthetically pleasing and inviting storefront to serve potential clients and create a relaxing environment. To accommodate the growing needs of our clients, we have even expanded our operations with a new branch in the Islington area. 

5. What have been the most influential brands for your business? Whose branding and marketing do you aspire to and why? 

At Asiatic, we have always been mindful of our authentic and ancient roots. We believe organic ingredients and a holistic approach to wellness are the foundation of good health. We seek inspiration from brands that successfully bridge tradition with modern trends, particularly those that emphasize organic and Ayurvedic principles. 

For instance, Aveda, a prominent name in the wellness industry, has particularly impressed us. Their focus on incorporating Ayurvedic principles and the interconnectedness of the five elements within the human body resonates deeply with our philosophy of complete well-being. 

6. What are your favorite marketing platforms/tools? 

For us, Social media is an incredibly powerful tool for connecting with our audience and promoting our unique wellness experience. We primarily use Facebook and  Instagram to create engaging content, share stories, and spread awareness about our brand. In addition, our website is constantly updated to guide potential clients and answer their questions. We clearly describe our services, pricing structure, and booking processes. 

7. Who or what inspires and motivates you? 

It is truly inspiring to witness the positive impact of our services on clients. I have seen my clients’ bodies relax, tensions melt away, and smiles appear on their faces.  Following our belief that massage is a deeply healing and therapeutic experience. We aspire to establish “Asiatic” as a top-notch wellness brand that constantly innovates to stay one step ahead of competitors. It’s rewarding to know that we are making a  difference in people’s lives, which motivates us to keep improving

8. What are some lessons you’ve learned along the way that you would share with entrepreneurs hoping to launch or who have just launched? 

We’ve been on a journey of growth and discovery since our launch. Here are a few key lessons we’d like to share with fellow entrepreneurs, especially those just starting out. First and foremost, new entrepreneurs should take the time to research the market,  understand competitors, and build relationships with their customers.  

Focus on developing a product or service that meets the needs of their customers and sets them apart from their competitors. Our approach to staying ahead of the competition is about adapting and innovating based on client feedback and evolving trends. 

Your brand will thrive if you build a community around it to foster loyalty and advocacy. We actively engage with our audience on social media, respond to inquiries promptly, and encourage client feedback. 

Most importantly, having a mentor or adviser is imperative to help aspiring entrepreneurs stay on track. 

9. What do you believe are the qualities of a good entrepreneur? And what makes a team successful? 

The road to entrepreneurial success is rarely smooth. A good entrepreneur has a clear vision for their business and the passion to see it come to life. They desire to make a difference and are excited about the challenges and opportunities of starting a new venture. 

A successful team benefits from a diverse range of skills and strengths. People with different backgrounds and talents can complement each other and fill knowledge gaps.  The best way to develop a loyal team is to create a supportive environment where people feel comfortable taking risks and learning from mistakes. 

10. Let us know where we can go to learn more!

• Website
• Instagram:
  • @asiaticthaimassage
• Facebook:
  • Asiatic Thai Massage