Dr. Anthony Guynes, an emergency medicine physician and CEO of Soleya Scrubs, noticed a gap in the scrubs market while working in various emergency departments. Despite the abundance of scrub brands, he observed that healthcare professionals lacked excitement about their scrubs. This led him to launch Soleya Scrubs in April 2024, aiming to revolutionize the industry.
Guynes recognized that scrubs were a multibillion-dollar market, with 70% of healthcare workers purchasing their own. This insight, coupled with his firsthand experience, fueled his decision to enter the market. Since its inception, Soleya Scrubs has shipped approximately 2,000 orders with a 40% repeat purchase rate, generating $250,000 in annual revenue. The company is on track to reach $1 million in revenue next year and is currently finalizing an oversubscribed pre-seed round at a $4M valuation.
Selecting the right co-founder is crucial for any startup. Guynes initially partnered with another physician to launch Dolphin Scrubs, but they eventually parted ways due to differing visions. Recognizing the importance of a supportive team, Guynes welcomed his wife, Beth Guynes, onto the Soleya Scrubs team. Beth’s expertise in fabric and weaving brought a fresh perspective to the business, leading to the incorporation of innovative materials in their products.
Building a successful product requires a focus on quality and functionality. Guynes attended fabric trade shows to source high-quality materials for Soleya Scrubs. He emphasized the importance of product development before branding, as value to customers should precede brand identity. Leveraging his network for design and feedback, Guynes iterated on the product to meet customer needs effectively.
Soleya Scrubs’ mission is to prioritize self-care for healthcare workers, highlighting the importance of comfort and well-being. The company aims to create a culture where self-care is as valued as patient care, promoting a healthier work environment for medical professionals.
Three key lessons emerge from Guynes’ journey with Soleya Scrubs. Firstly, view frustration as valuable data for innovation. Secondly, choose co-founders wisely, ensuring alignment in work ethic and goals. Lastly, focus on product development before considering market size, as delivering a quality product is essential for growth.
In conclusion, Soleya Scrubs exemplifies the power of observation, innovation, and collaboration in disrupting a traditional market. By prioritizing product excellence and customer satisfaction, the company is poised for continued success in the healthcare apparel industry.
