In the vibrant landscape of Pakistan’s business world, a few names resonate with as much legacy and innovation as Haji Kassam Haji Mohammad (HKHM). Officially launched, HKHM stands as a testament to decades of dedication, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The story of HKHM is not just one of business success but of resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of quality that has shaped the beverage industry and beyond in Pakistan.
A Journey Rooted in History
The genesis of HKHM is deeply entwined with the tumultuous period of the British-India Partition in 1947. Amidst this upheaval, eight brothers and sisters from the Teli family made the bold decision to migrate from India to the newly formed Pakistan. Among them was Haji Kassam Haji Mohammad, a man of remarkable intuition and entrepreneurial spirit. Recognizing the need for a homegrown beverage company in Pakistan, Haji Kassam envisioned a brand that would not only quench the nation’s thirst but also symbolize national pride and innovation. This vision materialized on August 14, 1950, with the establishment of Pakistan Beverage Limited (PBL), marking the beginning of what would become a legendary journey in the beverage industry.
Building a Legacy of Milestones
Since its inception, HKHM has achieved significant milestones. In 1950, it came up with the idea of Pakola as the national drink of the country and formed the company; Pakistan Beverage Limited. and by 1985, it secured exclusive rights to bottle for PepsiCo in Pakistan. The company’s growth has been remarkable, with production reaching 50 million bottles by 2010 and 400 million packs by 2020. HKHM’s adoption of advanced technology, including SAP S/4 HANA in 2023, reflects its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and operational excellence. The company’s mission has always been to provide branded beverages of the highest quality and value; fulfilling the needs, expectations, and aspirations of its customers, which has enabled it to achieve market leadership and sustained profitability.
Leadership and Innovation
HKHM’s success is a direct result of the strong leadership of Mr. Yasin Haji Kassam and Mr. Siraj Teli. Their tireless efforts and strategic vision have laid the foundation for HKHM’s current standing. Today, under the guidance of Chairman Zaid Yasin, Co-CEOs Nusair Siraj Teli and Qasim Zaid Teli and Director Abdul Hadi Zaid Teli, HKHM continues to build on this legacy. The company’s forward-looking vision aims to position HKHM as a globally recognized leader in innovation and quality, representing Pakistan on the world stage. This vision drives HKHM to push the boundaries in beverage and milk production, IT, infrastructure development, and beyond. The company’s dedication to trust, integrity, and respect fosters an inclusive environment where skilled professionals are empowered to excel, reflecting HKHM’s core values of honesty, transparency, and a passion for leadership.
Recognition and Competitive Edge
In 2016, PBL, one of the group companies of HKHM, was honored with the prestigious Bottler of the Year Award by PepsiCo, recognizing its outstanding service and product quality. Competing against formidable players in the industry, HKHM distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to delivering quality products to the end customer, along with its exclusive partnership with Pepsi. This dedication to quality and innovation has not only set HKHM apart from its competitors but has also solidified its reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.
Community and Government Collaboration
HKHM’s commitment to integrity and community involvement is deeply rooted in the legacy of Mr. Siraj Teli, who believed in doing more for those who cannot help themselves. His passion project with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) led to the ‘My Karachi’ with ‘Oasis of Harmony’ exhibitions, aimed at combating international propaganda that paints Karachi in a negative light. The Sitar-e-Imtiaz, a civilian honor, was conferred upon Mr. Siraj Teli for his efforts towards businessmen after the Bolton Market incident in 2010. Today, HKHM continues to honor this legacy by actively participating in community and government projects, including CSR activities such as tree plantations and providing recycled water to public parks. As a member of the KCCI, HKHM plays a crucial role in shaping industry standards and fostering economic growth, underscoring its belief in ethical practices and dedication to driving prosperity in Pakistan.
Pioneering Initiatives
HKHM has introduced several innovative initiatives, including the R-Pet recycling project and the fastest production line in Pakistan, the Line 7. These efforts highlight HKHM’s dedication to environmental sustainability and industry leadership. The company’s ability to adapt to changing consumer needs is further exemplified by its introduction of bottled water and Gatorade, showcasing its commitment to innovation and speed to market.
Workforce and Community Impact
With a workforce of 10,000 employees across key locations, HKHM is more than just a company; it is a thriving community. The company’s comprehensive employee welfare programs, including interest-free loans, reflect its commitment to its core values of integrity, trust, respect, and ownership. HKHM’s focus on fostering ethical workplaces and investing in state-of-the-art technologies is integral to its vision of expanding its horizons beyond a single industry, becoming a cornerstone of excellence in all its endeavors.
Haji Kassam Haji Mohammad (HKHM) is more than a name in the beverage industry; it’s a legacy of innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As HKHM embarks on this new chapter, it continues to build on its rich history, setting new benchmarks in the beverage industry and beyond, poised to shape the future with the same vision and passion that has driven its success for decades.
