Ismail Industries Limited, founded in 1989, stands as one of Pakistan’s largest and most diversified food companies. With a strong heritage in the food and beverage sector, the company has evolved from a single-category confectionery producer into a multifaceted conglomerate operating across snacks, biscuits, confectionery, packaging films, and nutritional products.
Core Business and Product Portfolio
Ismail Industries operates through several well-recognized brands that cater to different segments of the market:
- CandyLand – Specializes in confectionery products like Chilli Milli, Éclairs, and ABC Jelly.
- Bisconni – Offers a diverse biscuit portfolio including Cocomo, Rite, Treat, and Novita.
- SnackCity – Focuses on savory snacks such as Kurleez and Puffs.
- Astro Films – Manufactures high-quality BOPP, CPP, and BOPET packaging films.
- Ismail Nutrition – Develops nutritional solutions including fortified cereals and lipid-based products.
- Ghiza – A new venture into flour and staple food production.
Their extensive product lineup caters to both children and adults, with offerings ranging from indulgent treats to health-focused solutions. The company leverages state-of-the-art facilities and advanced manufacturing practices across its units in Karachi, Lahore, and Hub.
Specialization and Core USP
Ismail Industries distinguishes itself through vertical integration and innovation:
- Vertical Integration: Control over production, packaging, and distribution via Astro Films and extensive logistics network.
- R&D Focus: A dedicated innovation team ensures continuous product development aligned with consumer preferences and nutritional guidelines.
- Global Reach: Presence in over 40 countries with compliance to international standards, giving the company a competitive edge in exports.
- Brand Recognition: Flagship products like Cocomo and Chilli Milli are household names in Pakistan and across various export markets.
Financial Performance
As of FY 2023, Ismail Industries Limited reported:
- Revenue: PKR 52.76 billion (~USD 185 million)
- Net Profit: PKR 3.91 billion (~USD 13.7 million)
- EPS: PKR 21.97
(Source: Pakistan Stock Exchange, Financial Reports 2023)
The company has demonstrated consistent growth over the past decade, backed by capacity expansions and product diversification.
Export and Shipment Data
According to trade intelligence platforms such as Volza and ImportYeti:
- Export Markets: Middle East, Africa, Europe, North America, Southeast Asia
- Key Importers: Retail and distribution chains in UAE, KSA, UK, USA
- Shipment Volume: Over 2,800 containers exported annually
- Top Exported Items: Cocomo, Kurleez, Éclairs, Bisconni Treat, Astro Films BOPP packaging
This reflects Ismail Industries’ robust international logistics and demand footprint.
Target Market
Ismail Industries caters to a broad demographic:
- Domestic Market: All age groups, with targeted branding for children (CandyLand, Bisconni) and young adults (SnackCity)
- International Market: Diaspora and general consumers seeking Halal, high-quality snacks and packaged foods
- B2B: Packaging solutions via Astro Films for regional and international manufacturers
Capabilities and Infrastructure
- Manufacturing Facilities: Over 10 plants across Karachi, Lahore, and Hub
- Packaging: In-house production via Astro Films
- Logistics: End-to-end logistics and cold chain capabilities
- Workforce: Over 8,500 employees
- Technology: SAP integrated systems, automated lines, and food-grade quality control labs
Certifications and Compliance
Ismail Industries adheres to international food safety and quality protocols:
- ISO 22000:2018 – Food Safety Management System
- HACCP – Hazard Analysis & Critical Control Point
- Halal Certification – From recognized global bodies
- Compliance with FDA, EFSA, and Gulf Food Standards for export
Customer Testimonials
“CandyLand products are a staple in our stores. The consistency in quality and consumer preference is unmatched.”
– Retail Chain Buyer, UAE (from customer testimonial published in Foodex Saudi brochure)
“We trust Bisconni for innovative and exciting biscuit varieties. Their support for promotions and supply chain is excellent.”
– Distributor, East Africa (testimonial in export catalogue)
Major Achievements
- Awarded “Best Exporter” multiple times by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan.
- Featured in Forbes Middle East for being one of Pakistan’s leading FMCG exporters.
- Established Ismail Nutrition, a division supporting government and UNICEF-backed nutritional programs.
- Corporate Social Responsibility: Regular contributions to education and health via the Ismail Foundation, including a financial grant for OPP (as seen in public video statements).
Ismail Industries continues to lead through a combination of strong legacy, strategic diversification, international compliance, and a relentless focus on consumer satisfaction and quality.
