- Mehran Spice & Food Industries: Elevating culinary excellence and global presence
Interview with Mr. Gul Muhammad Lot — Chairman, Mehran Spice & Food Industries
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Gul Muhammad Lot: I inherited a rich legacy in the food industry from my late father, Ghullam Muhammad Lot. My journey into the business world began in the 1980s after completing my Bachelor’s degree. Later, I pursued a Master’s in political science from the University of Sindh, Hyderabad.
Driven by a deep-seated commitment to national service, I transitioned into politics, eventually serving in the Senate in 2015. Concurrently, I assumed the role of Chairman at M/s. Mehran Spice & Food Industries, guiding the company to global recognition. In a short span, Mehran emerged as a premier exporter to over 50 countries, renowned for its top-notch product all over the world.
Entering the local market in 2011, Mehran swiftly captured a significant market share, experiencing remarkable growth in both domestic and international sales. As an ISO 9001 & ISO 22000 certified leader in the food industry, Mehran Spice & Food Industries is committed to consumer satisfaction, prioritising quality, consistency, and authentic flavors, accompanied by cutting edge technology.
The recognition earned by Mehran Spice & Food Industries speaks volume, winning prestigious awards such as the Best Exporter Award from FPCCI for an impressive 37 consecutive years, the Presidential Award twice, the Prime Minister Award twice, and the Businessman of the Year Award six times, cementing its status as a visionary leader in the business world.
PAGE: Could you share your perspective about quality raw material for food products?
Gul Muhammad Lot: At Mehran Spice & Food Industries, our commitment to purchase quality raw material is unwavering. This dedication ensures that our sales continue to soar year after year, surpassing previous records. Our customers consistently rave about the exceptional taste of our products, a testament to our stringent quality control measures. With a dedicated Quality Control department overseeing every stage of production, we maintain the highest standards without compromise. From testing raw materials upon receipt to rigorous laboratory analysis, we leave no stone unturned in ensuring excellence.
Our quality control team pays close attention to recipes, particularly for blended spices, and continually works to enhance flavour profiles. Over the past two years, we have received an overwhelmingly positive response in the international market for our recipes, sauces, and other food products including rice, straight spices, pickles, ketchup, vermicelli, desserts and frozen products.
The secret to our success lies on sourcing only the finest raw materials. This commitment has leaded us to prominence not only in the sub-continent but also among our competitors. We see a constant increase in our distributor network, welcoming new partners into the Mehran family.
Our focus remains steadfast: Delivering quality products that exceed expectations and delight our customers with every bite.
PAGE: How significant is it to have state-of-the-art storage facilities both for raw material and finished products?
Gul Muhammad Lot: At Mehran Spice & Food Industries, our storage facility is at the forefront of modernity, featuring dedicated departments for both raw materials and finished products. We prioritise the procurement of top-quality raw materials, sourcing them in bulk and at the peak of their seasons to ensure optimal freshness. With temperature-controlled storage facilities we maintain & preserve the quality of Raw material until they’re ready for production. Our Warehouse with epoxy flooring (as per food standard) alongside marble-lined walls, to create a cool and hygienic environment conducive to maintaining the quality of our ingredients.
Furthermore, our commitment to excellence extends to the storage of finished products, which are also kept in temperature-controlled environments. Utilising proper racks and adhering to international standards, we meticulously organise both raw materials and finished goods to streamline our operations and uphold our promise of delivering unparalleled quality to our customers. Cleanliness and hygiene are paramount at every stage, as we adhere strictly to quality standards, ensuring that each product leaving our facility is of the highest calibre.
PAGE: What contribution does the infrastructure make in terms of the quality of the products?
Gul Muhammad Lot: Mehran Spice & Food Industries has an outstanding infrastructure with a steadfast commitment to hygiene. Our meticulous attention to the well-being of our workforce includes regular medical tests, ensuring a healthy environment for all employees. From the storage of raw materials to the handling of finished products, we adhere to international standards of hygiene, safeguarding the quality of our products. This dedication to cleanliness translates into products that consistently meet and exceed customer expectations, driving our sales growth year after year while enhancing the longevity of our products.
At Mehran Spice & Food Industries, we aim to establish our quality operations as the gold standard for the industry. Our mission revolves around delivering supreme product quality, safety, and consistency to our consumers. From manufacturing to packaging to transportation, every aspect of our operations occurs under the most hygienic conditions possible. With our quality control department vigilantly monitoring each phase of production, we ensure compliance with both national and international regulations, guaranteeing the highest quality standards for our consumers to savor and enjoy safely.
PAGE: Would you delineate on the image of Pakistani food products in foreign countries?
Gul Muhammad Lot: Mehran Spice is representing our country in the international market and fills us with immense pride. As we celebrate Mehran’s 50th anniversary this year, we carry the flag of Pakistan with honour and distinction at international exhibitions. It brings us joy to showcase the quality food products of Mehran Spice & Food Industries to consumers worldwide, who delight in experiencing the flavours of Pakistan. The sight of the Pakistani flag flying high at these exhibitions not only promotes Mehran’s products but also contributes to the positive image and advancement of our nation on the global stage.
Recently we have expanded product line to include mouthwatering frozen products, supported by the installation of state-of-the-art machinery. The international market has responded enthusiastically, with customers praising the taste and placing orders. This demonstrates a strong preference for Mehran products among our customer base. Additionally, our newly introduced packaging for the entire Mehran range has received an overwhelmingly positive response in both international and domestic markets, with customers finding it visually appealing and attractive.
Mehran Spice & Food Industries serves as a beacon of Pakistan’s culinary excellence at international exhibitions. Customers from around the globe appreciate and enjoy our diverse range of products, including rice, spices & recipes, pickles, ketchup, sauces, vermicellies, desserts and frozen products. By consistently delivering top-notch quality and flavours, we not only satisfy consumer preferences but also foster goodwill and admiration for Pakistani cuisine, ultimately contributing to the growth and prosperity of our country in the international marketplace. We are diligently striving to maximise exports, crucial for Pakistan’s current foreign exchange needs and economic stability.
