- Invest in human resources, grooming, exposure to technology, marketing, and international mindsets for brands
Interview with Mr. Rafiq Rangoonwala, a renowned businessman
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Rafiq Rangoonwala: I started my career from Houston, Texas in 1980 with KFC, USA. I am former CEO of Quick Food Industry (Mon Salwa). I am doing freelancing now. I have extensive experience of over 40 years in creating, building and leading key Fast Food Brands in Pakistan and across the globe including, KFC, Burger King, TGIF, Hardees, Pizza Hut, Wendy’s and Harry Ramsden, etc.
Currently, I am on the Advisory Board of Ijara Capital, Advisor to Bahria University Karachi, Member Scientific Panel at Sindh Food Authority and also am the founder member and President of Pakistan Food Association. I was elected twice as the President of Marketing Association of Pakistan, President of Memon Professional Forum, Vice President Karachi Business Forum and Think Tank. I have also contributed in philanthropy as Founder President Emaan Welfare Society, Chairman Advisory Board of Help International Trust and Trustee Sina Health, Education and Welfare Trust.
PAGE: What is your perspective about leading brands in Pakistan?
Rafiq Rangoonwala: Masha Allah we have come a long way. I think we need to invest more on human resources, hiring the right help, continuously invest in our teams grooming and exposure to new technologies and marketing techniques.
PAGE: Which Pakistani brands have gone international over the course of preceding one decade?
Rafiq Rangoonwala: Bar BQ Tonight, Gynsoy, Rehmat-e-Shireen etc are some of the food related brands which have entered international market.
PAGE: What is your standpoint on brand value and creating international brands by Pakistanis?
Rafiq Rangoonwala: To create international brand we need to have international mindsets. We must study the local market and consumer trends. Tendency is to open the shop and most of the time not to spend any on creating awareness and attracting customers.
PAGE: What should be the policies of the government in supporting new brands?
Rafiq Rangoonwala: Government should support not just the new brands but all the brands. The ones who go abroad should get special incentive when they bring their profits back, for example.