In the world of corporate gifting, where a simple gesture can leave a lasting impression, Gaurav Bhagat, affectionately known as GB, has redefined the art of gifting. What began as a necessity-driven venture in 1999 with just ₹10,000 on a credit card has today blossomed into Consortium Gifts, one of Asia’s leading corporate gifting companies. With a clientele that includes global giants like Salesforce, Amazon, Coca-Cola, and BMW, GB’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of a well-executed vision.
But GB’s story isn’t just about gifting—it’s about transforming industries, empowering entrepreneurs, and creating a legacy of excellence. Let’s dive into the inspiring journey of this TEDx speaker and Asia’s foremost sales trainer.
The Man Behind the Vision: Gaurav Bhagat
Gaurav Bhagat is a name synonymous with sales mastery, entrepreneurial brilliance, and corporate excellence. With over 30 years of experience, GB has worn many hats—entrepreneur, coach, speaker, and podcaster. His accolades include speaking at prestigious platforms like TEDx and IIT, and his podcast episodes garner over 100,000 views regularly, making him a trusted voice in the entrepreneurial community.
But GB’s journey wasn’t always glamorous. In 1999, faced with financial challenges, he took a leap of faith and started Consortium Gifts from his home. With no team and minimal resources, he relied on his vision and determination to turn a small idea into a thriving business.
The Genesis of Consortium Gifts: A Necessity Turned Revolution
“It wasn’t inspiration—it was a necessity,” GB recalls. “I knew I had to take action, and with just ₹10,000 drawn on a credit card, I started Consortium Gifts.”
At the time, corporate gifting in India was largely transactional and impersonal. GB saw an opportunity to bridge this gap by offering premium, customized gifting solutions that could serve as powerful branding tools. His vision was simple yet revolutionary: to transform gifting from a routine expense into a memorable experience.
Over the past 25 years, Consortium Gifts has grown into a trusted partner for global brands, delivering luxury, tech-driven, and sustainable gifting solutions. From bespoke gifts for BMW to eco-friendly packages for Coca-Cola, GB’s company has set new standards in the industry.
What Sets Consortium Gifts Apart?
In a crowded market, Consortium Gifts stands out for its strategic, brand-enhancing approach. Here’s what makes them unique:
- Personalization: Every gift is tailored to reflect the brand’s identity and values.
- Sustainability: A focus on eco-friendly solutions that align with modern corporate values.
- Innovation: Leveraging technology to create seamless, tech-driven gifting experiences.
“We don’t just sell gifts; we create memorable brand experiences,” GB explains.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
GB’s journey wasn’t without hurdles. Starting with no team and limited resources, he faced skepticism from potential clients. “The biggest challenge was establishing trust with large brands,” he shares. “But we overcame it by focusing on quality, innovation, and customer experience.”
Another turning point came when Consortium Gifts secured its first major client—Maruti Suzuki. “That win validated our vision and set the stage for working with other global brands,” GB recalls.
Milestones and Achievements
From humble beginnings to becoming a Great Place to Work and earning accolades at prestigious industry honors, Consortium Gifts has come a long way. GB’s proudest moments include:
- Becoming the trusted gifting partner for global giants like Deloitte and LinkedIn.
- Launching the Gaurav Bhagat Academy in 2018 to empower entrepreneurs with sales and business training.
- Seeing the real impact of their work, both in corporate gifting and entrepreneurial development.
The Future of Consortium Gifts and Gaurav Bhagat Academy
Looking ahead, GB has ambitious plans for both ventures. For Consortium Gifts, the focus is on expanding their global footprint and integrating AI-driven personalization into their offerings. “Over the next five years, we aim to partner with even more global brands and set new industry standards,” he says.
For Gaurav Bhagat Academy, the mission is to scale up and reach more entrepreneurs and professionals globally. “We want to become the go-to academy for skilling and upskilling in the digital age,” GB shares.
GB’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
GB’s journey is a treasure trove of lessons for budding entrepreneurs. Here’s his advice:
- Start small, but think big. Focus on building a strong foundation and offering exceptional value.
- Embrace challenges. Learn from setbacks and pivot when necessary.
- Invest in personal development. Skills like sales, leadership, and financial literacy are crucial for success.
- Build a strong team. Surround yourself with people who share your vision and complement your skills.
A Legacy of Excellence and Empowerment
Gaurav Bhagat’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, even the smallest beginnings can lead to extraordinary success. Whether it’s revolutionizing corporate gifting or empowering entrepreneurs through his academy, GB’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and relentless execution.
As he puts it, “Every challenge was a stepping stone, and today, both ventures stand as proof that the right mindset and relentless execution can turn obstacles into success.”
Follow Consortium Gifts and Gaurav Bhagat Academy to stay updated on their journey:
- Website: Consortium Gifts
- LinkedIn: Gaurav Bhagat
- Instagram: @consortiumgifts
