The e-commerce company Wildberries has emerged as one of Russia’s most successful homegrown online retail brands. It’s growing so fast that it now sells more than $600 million worth of goods a year. Despite its rapid expansion, it has been repeatedly accused of having outside help and, as its market share grows, is facing a host of rivals with deep-pocketed investment and tacit state backing.
When Wildberries founder Tatyana Bakalchuk started the business, she was a small-time IT professional, juggling a young child and a small, unprepossessing apartment in Ryazansky, an upmarket, low-rent part of Moscow with decaying Soviet-era buildings and prefab tower blocks. Her business focused on reselling a range of products, from kitchenware to cosmetics.
After winning a number of awards, including the Russian Internet Entrepreneur Award, Bakalchuk set about turning her company into an e-commerce powerhouse. She resisted any outside investment and, instead, poured all of her energy into breakneck growth.
But she was also willing to go the extra mile to make sure the company’s clients were happy. For example, Bakalchuk made all her delivery personnel wear protective equipment. She also stopped working with contractors and began to operate her own logistics department.
It’s a competitive advantage that helps Wildberries stand out from competitors, says Ivashchenko. While other e-commerce companies in Russia offer a limited range of products, Wildberries’s wide selection attracts customers.
Berries are rich in multiple nutrients, and they provide antioxidants that can strengthen the immune system and reduce oxidative stress. They are a good source of fiber and are relatively low in calories, making them an excellent choice for people who want to improve their health.
They are also a source of vitamin C, which can help prevent and treat infections. The antioxidants they contain are also known to protect against certain cancers and heart disease.
In addition, berries are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids that can help lower blood pressure, protect the heart, and lower cholesterol levels. They are also a great source of vitamins A, B, C, and K and minerals like copper and manganese.
Besides being delicious, berries are also a good source of fiber, which can help keep you full and prevent overeating. They can be eaten fresh, added to salads and smoothies, or made into jams, juices, and desserts.
There are several species of wild berries in the United States, and each offers its own unique nutritional benefits. Some of the most common include blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and huckleberries.
These berries grow in a variety of colors, but they all deliver powerful antioxidants and are good sources of vitamin C and fiber. They’re especially high in ellagic acid, a cancer-fighting compound that also promotes healthy eyes and skin.
They’re also a good source of vitamin B6 and folic acid, which can help regulate mood, energy levels, and blood sugar. They are also a good source of potassium, which can help to maintain stable blood pressure.
In addition to these health benefits, berries are also rich in anthocyanins, which can strengthen the body’s defenses against inflammation. These anti-inflammatory compounds can also help with chronic illnesses and autoimmune disorders.