(Photo by Venerando Cortez)
Waqas Butt, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Fiza Carpet Co Ltd and Island Teak Co, has made a significant impact in Okinawa with his unique business ventures. Originally from Pakistan, Waqas’s journey took him from Toronto to Okinawa, where he has established himself as a reputable business owner and a valued member of the community.
Life in Okinawa:
“Okinawa is a beautiful island that I’m so grateful to live and work on. The people are friendly and very welcoming. I love Okinawa and its calm, relaxing atmosphere,” Waqas reflects. “The pace of life here is slower compared to other busy cities like Tokyo or Osaka.” This tranquil environment has allowed Waqas and his family, including his two daughters, to thrive.
Business Journey:
Waqas began his entrepreneurial journey in 2010, focusing on hand-knotted rugs. His venture expanded five years later to include furniture. “I started doing hand-knotted rugs business in Okinawa in 2010. After five years, I expanded to furniture,” he explains. His strong relationship with AAFES Okinawa, built since 2006, enabled him to secure stores at the Kadena Exchange, bolstered by his company’s solid reputation and customer satisfaction.
Unique Furniture:
(Photo by Venerando Cortez)
The furniture offered by Island Teak Co is sourced from Indonesia and crafted from solid teak wood. “Teak wood is one of the best and hardest woods, which makes it very unique. It lasts for a very long time if taken proper care of,” Waqas says, highlighting the quality and longevity of his products.
Challenges and Support:
Starting a business in Japan as a foreigner presented its challenges. However, Waqas had a significant advantage: his father, who has been conducting business in Japan since 1979. “He guided me on how to open my own company,” Waqas acknowledges, grateful for his father’s mentorship.
Lifestyle and Fitness:
(Photo by Venerando Cortez)
Joining Fogo Gym has profoundly influenced Waqas’s lifestyle. “I have more energy now at work, and my lifestyle is much more disciplined,” he shares. Working with a personal trainer has helped him achieve his initial fitness goals, primarily focused on fat loss. “Now I am working on my next phase for lean muscle gains. Looking forward to the results with my coach Flexible Anabolic Nutrition.”
Achievements and Customer Trust:
Waqas considers customer trust his most significant achievement. “I have many repeated customers, and even when they move back to the States, they still recommend their friends in Okinawa to buy furniture from my company for high-quality products,” he proudly shares.
Advice for Expatriates:
To other expatriates looking to start a business in Japan, Waqas offers sage advice: “Work hard, always sell high-quality merchandise, and build good relationships with your customers.”
For more information about Waqas Butt’s furniture business, you can visit his website:
Website: Teakwood Creations
Phone: 090 9481 9081
Email: islandteak786@gmail.com
Social Media: Facebook Link
**About the Writer**
Venerando Cortez is an avid blogger who owns multiple online businesses. He specialises in helping businesses leverage AI to get more customers. Based in Okinawa, Venerando enjoys exploring the rich cultural landscape of the island and sharing the inspiring journeys of its residents. When not writing, Venerando can be found coaching bodybuilding or enjoying the local cuisine at FOGO Brazil Restaurant.
