As food and beverage industry trends shift towards health-conscious choices, sustainability, and technological advancements, businesses are not only keeping pace but also anticipating and leading these changes. This narrative explores the journey of a company that has effectively embraced these challenges and opportunities, demonstrating how strategic vision, commitment to quality, and a focus on corporate responsibility can drive significant growth and impact in the global market.
At the forefront of this journey is Amir Mansoor, whose vision and leadership have shaped the success of Lily International Pvt Ltd since its inception. Founded in 2000, Lily International Pvt Ltd was established with a clear mission: to introduce high-quality food and beverage products to the Maldives and beyond. Drawing from a deep personal passion for culinary excellence, Mansoor identified a unique opportunity to fill a gap in the market for diverse and premium international brands.Top of FormBottom of Form
Amir Mansoor’s inspiration to enter the industry was driven by a personal passion for culinary excellence and a desire to introduce diverse flavors and premium products to the local market. Observing a gap in the availability of international brands, he saw an opportunity to establish a company capable of meeting the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers in the region.
Elevating Maldives’ Food and Beverage Landscape
Founded on 10 October 2000, Lily International Pvt Ltd is a privately owned company specializing in the import and distribution of high-quality, internationally recognized brands in food and beverage, personal care, hygiene, and cosmetics.
Commonly known as Lily F&B Suppliers, the company is a subsidiary of the Lily Group, which has been a key player in wholesale, shipping, tourism, and various other sectors for the past 35 years.
Lily International Pvt Ltd was established with the goal of offering top-quality brands at affordable prices while ensuring personalized service and reliability. Over the past decade, the company has expanded its reach across the nation, setting up wholesale and retail outlets, the largest cold storage facility in the Maldives with a 500 MT capacity, dry warehouses, land and sea distribution vehicles, and a state-of-the-art IT infrastructure.
Lily International Pvt Ltd’s mission is to become the most preferred and dependable food and beverage supplier in the Maldives. The company is committed to providing advanced supply solutions with world-class products and delivering exceptional customer service.
Looking ahead, Lily International Pvt Ltd envisions achieving this mission through a foundation of integrity and reliability. By embracing dynamic management practices, the company aims to serve its stakeholders and contribute positively to society.
Milestones and Values in Focus
The company collaborates with businesses in over 40 countries. The company launched “Grape Expectations Pvt Ltd” as a separate entity to enhance its marketing and sales of alcoholic beverages and cigars within the resort industry. Notable international brands represented by Lily International Pvt Ltd include Fonterra, Nestlé, Evian, San Pellegrino, Perrier, Diversey, among others.
Lily International Pvt Ltd remains committed to its core mission of “Feeding the Nation” and places significant importance on corporate responsibility. The company actively supports charitable causes and social initiatives, reflecting its dedication to contributing to the socio-economic development of the nation.
From Hurdles to Horizons
In the early days, one of the biggest challenges for Lily International Pvt Ltd was establishing a reliable supply chain and building relationships with international brands. Navigating import regulations and logistical hurdles required perseverance and strategic planning. The company overcame these challenges by investing in robust infrastructure, forging strong partnerships, and maintaining a flexible approach to adapt to changing circumstances.
Since its inception, Lily International Pvt Ltd has evolved significantly, expanding its portfolio to include a diverse range of food and beverage brands. This growth is a testament to Lily International Pvt Ltd’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Pinnacle of the Industry
Amir Mansoor’s vision for Lily International Pvt Ltd is to continue leading the food and beverage industry by embracing innovation and sustainability. Over the next five to ten years, he aims for the company to further expand its global reach, introduce new and exciting brands, and enhance its product offerings. Lily International Pvt Ltd is committed to adapting to market trends and consumer preferences to ensure continued growth and success.
Under the leadership of Managing Director Mr. Amir Mansoor, Lily F&B Suppliers has established itself as a premier distributor of world-renowned brands in the Maldives. The company handles an extensive portfolio of over 1,000 SKUs, reflecting its commitment to exceptional service and quality.
Lily F&B Suppliers is built on core values of service, support, innovation, and customer respect. The company’s adherence to high-quality and safety standards is exemplified by its certification in ISO 22000:2005 and the HACCP Codex Alimentarius (HACCP) Code, achieved in December 2008. These certifications ensure compliance with rigorous safety standards in the trading, storing, and transportation of frozen, chilled, and dry goods, meeting the demands of top-quality hotels and caterers worldwide.
Exclusive Agents of Global Excellence
The company proudly serves as the exclusive agent for several prestigious global brands in the Maldives, including:
- Fonterra Brands: A leading global dairy company, Fonterra offers top brands like Anchor, which includes milk, milk powder, butter, cheese, and creams, and is a significant player in the Maldivian dairy market.
- Nestlé Professional: As the world’s largest food company, Nestlé is renowned for its brands such as Maggi, Nescafé, and Perrier. Their extensive culinary heritage supports the professional hospitality industry in the Maldives.
- McCain Foods Limited: Known for its frozen food products, McCain is a famous Canadian brand offering French fries, appetizers, pizzas, vegetables, desserts, juices, entrees, and oven meals.
- Ceylon Cold Stores: Known for its Elephant House brand ice creams, which come in various flavors and pack sizes, this brand has become a household name in the Maldives for its competitive pricing and high quality.
- MasterBaker Marketing FZCO: Established in 1992, MasterBaker specializes in supplying quality ingredients and customized services to the bakery industry and beyond.
Crafting Quality and Innovation
Amir Mansoor ensures that quality and personalized service are at the core of Lily International Pvt Ltd’s business model by implementing rigorous quality control measures and investing in staff training. His approach involves training the team to understand and anticipate customer needs, which enables them to deliver tailored solutions and maintain high standards across all aspects of the company’s operations.
When selecting brands and products, Lily International Pvt Ltd prioritizes quality, reputation, and alignment with market demands. The company conducts thorough research and engages with trusted suppliers to ensure that the products offered meet high standards. Their selection process also involves evaluating market trends and consumer preferences to introduce innovative and sought-after products to their customers.
Technology has revolutionized Lily International Pvt Ltd’s operations by enhancing efficiency and accuracy in their distribution strategies. Advanced IT infrastructure allows the company to manage inventory, track shipments, and analyze market data more effectively. It also enables streamlined communication with suppliers and customers, ultimately improving overall operational performance and responsiveness.
“Grape Expectations Pvt Ltd” was established as a strategic addition to Lily International Pvt Ltd’s portfolio, focusing on offering premium wines and gourmet foods. Its role within the company is to cater to a niche market segment and enhance product diversity. Grape Expectations enables Lily International Pvt Ltd to offer a curated selection of high-quality products, further solidifying its position as a leading distributor in the region.
Over the past decade, Amir Mansoor has observed major trends in the food and beverage industry, including the rise of health-conscious eating, increased demand for sustainable products, and the growing influence of technology in food service. In response, Lily International Pvt Ltd is adapting by expanding its range of health-focused and eco-friendly products, investing in technology to streamline operations, and staying ahead of market trends to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Championing Community Impact
Corporate responsibility is a cornerstone of Lily International Pvt Ltd ‘s business philosophy. The company is involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting local community programs, contributing to environmental sustainability efforts, and partnering with organizations to address social issues. Their goal is to make a positive impact beyond business operations and contribute to the well-being of the communities they serve.
One of the most rewarding experiences for Amir Mansoor has been witnessing the positive impact of Lily International Pvt Ltd’s products and services on customers and communities. Seeing the company’s brands become household names and knowing that they have contributed to the growth of local businesses and the satisfaction of customers brings him immense fulfillment. The success of the team and the positive feedback from partners and clients are truly gratifying for him.
Honoring Support and Sustaining Excellence
Amir Mansoor expresses his sincere appreciation to Lily International Pvt Ltd’s valued customers, principals, the Government of Maldives, and the media for their invaluable support and contribution, which has established the company as a reliable and consistent food and beverage supplier in the region. He is grateful for their unconditional support and hopes that the company’s success will be a source of pride for the nation and its culinary industry. Mansoor also extends his thanks to the members of his team at Lily International Pvt Ltd for their dedication and effort in realizing the company’s corporate mission, vision, and values.
Mansoor affirms that Lily International Pvt Ltd remains committed to its motto, “Feeding the Nation,” and has established itself as a leading service provider by delivering quality global products at affordable prices to customers across the nation. He highlights the company’s integrity and dedication in meeting the needs of valued clients, including HoReCa, institutions, wholesalers, retailers, corporate entities, and the general public.
Expanding Horizons – The Franchise Journey of Amir Mansoor
In the dynamic landscape of Maldivian business, Amir Mansoor has carved out a unique niche through his strategic expansion into the world of franchises. As the Managing Director of Lily International Pvt Ltd, Amir has been instrumental in introducing and establishing several internationally recognized brands in the Maldives, enhancing the culinary landscape and offering a diverse range of dining experiences to the Maldivian people and visitors alike.
Marrybrown: A Pioneering Venture
Amir’s foray into the franchise business began in 2015 with the launch of Marrybrown, the first international fast-food chain in the Maldives. Known for its Halal-friendly menu and variety of offerings, Marrybrown quickly became a household name across the nation. The brand now boasts three outlets, strategically located in the capital city Malé, Hulhumalé, and Addu City. Under Amir’s leadership, Marrybrown has not only met the demand for quality fast food but has also become a vital part of the community, catering to the tastes and preferences of a diverse customer base.
Secret Recipe: A Taste of International Delicacies
Continuing his successful franchise journey, Amir introduced Secret Recipe to the Maldives in 2016. This international chain, famous for its award-winning cakes and fusion food, filled a significant gap in the market for high-quality desserts and meals. With two outlets, one in Malé and another at Velana International Airport, Secret Recipe has quickly become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists seeking a blend of sweet and savory treats. Amir’s vision to bring a brand like Secret Recipe to the Maldives aligns with his broader goal of elevating the local culinary scene by offering global flavors.
Coffee Republic: Brewing a New Experience
The latest addition to Amir’s portfolio of franchise businesses is Coffee Republic, launched in 2023 by Carpe Diem Maldives Pvt Ltd. As a relatively new entrant to the market, Coffee Republic has already started making waves with its premium coffee offerings and modern café experience. Situated in a prime location, the café is a testament to Amir’s keen eye for emerging trends and his commitment to providing quality, trendy, and accessible dining options.
Pizza Mia: A Homegrown Success Story
While Amir Mansoor has successfully introduced and managed international franchises, one of his proudest achievements is the creation and growth of Pizza Mia, a homegrown pizza brand he introduced to the Maldivian market in 2011. Pizza Mia stands out as a testament to Amir’s entrepreneurial spirit and his deep understanding of local tastes and preferences.
Pizza Mia quickly became a favorite among Maldivians, offering a wide range of pizzas tailored to local palates, including unique flavors inspired by traditional Maldivian cuisine. Under Amir’s leadership, Pizza Mia has grown into a beloved brand, known for its quality ingredients, innovative menu, and exceptional customer service. The brand’s success also reflects Amir’s ability to balance local relevance with international standards, ensuring that Pizza Mia competes effectively in a market filled with global giants.
The Vision Ahead
Amir Mansoor’s venture into the franchise world is not just about bringing international brands to the Maldives; it’s about curating experiences that resonate with the Maldivian way of life while also appealing to the global traveler. His ability to identify and partner with brands that align with his values and vision has been key to the success of these franchises.
Looking ahead, Amir is focused on expanding these brands further across the Maldives, ensuring that they continue to innovate and meet the evolving needs of the market. His journey with franchises like Marrybrown, Secret Recipe, Coffee Republic, and the homegrown Pizza Mia illustrates his commitment to diversifying the Maldivian dining scene, creating job opportunities, and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
In a market that is as competitive and fast-paced as the Maldives, Amir Mansoor’s franchise ventures stand as a testament to his strategic thinking, business acumen, and unwavering dedication to quality. Whether it’s the familiar taste of Marry brown’s chicken, the indulgent sweetness of a Secret Recipe cake, the aromatic brew from Coffee Republic, or the uniquely local flavors of Pizza Mia, Amir’s influence is evident in every bite.
