- PSL evolved into powerful brand attracting sponsorships and stimulating economic activity
Interview with Mr. Kalim A. Siddiqui — former Managing Director of Pakistan State Oil
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Kalim Siddiqui: I am a former Managing Director of Pakistan State Oil and former President of Byco Petroleum. I am holding a Bachelor in Chemical Engineering from University of Bradford in England (UK) and a Masters in Chemistry from Karachi University, has broad-based, global experience by working in USA, UK, Australia, Vietnam & Pakistan for over 36 years. I am an enthusiastic and highly accomplished Executive with 36 years’ of extensive fuels/lubricants business expertise in marketing, sales, operations management and system re-engineering in oil industry by running supply chain, streamlining processes, hunting for new business and growing top producing accounts; I have experience of developed and emerging markets/cultures. I am a collaborative Leader with aptitude to achieve change, excite the organization, infuse new ideas and deliver dramatic, bottom-line outcomes; recognize to accomplish multiple customer-specific priorities with competence, exemplary follow-up and interpersonal abilities; I am highly expert in high-level market segments, top-down selling and vertical market mastery.
I have served as Chairman Oil Companies Advisory Committee (OCAC) and has held directorships in various reputable companies, & professional and educational institutes including Pakistan Refinery Limited, Pak-Arab Pipeline Company, Asia Petroleum Limited, Pak-Grease Manufacturing Company Limited, Petroleum Institute of Pakistan, Pakistan Advertisers Society and Lahore University of Management Sciences. Before joining PSO in 2001, I have served in Caltex (now Chevron) for over 20 years locally as well as internationally. International assignments were located in the USA, Australia and Vietnam.
In a longer spell of over 20 years in Caltex, I have dealt with fuels, lubes and LPG in all aspects like product development, product engineering, supply chain, operations, production/manufacturing and sales/marketing. My three years of work in the UK was with Howden Engineering Company, Burmah-Castrol refinery, North West Water Authority and A.P.V Company before coming back to Pakistan in 1980.
PAGE: McDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Gloria Jean’s, Hardee’s, Burger King etc. are household names in Pakistan. For a couple of decades, several brands have been doing tremendous job and there has been no looking back. How would you comment on it?
Kalim Siddiqui: The sustained success of international franchises such as McDonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut, Gloria Jean’s, Hardee’s, and Burger King in Pakistan reflects the country’s evolving consumer preferences, growing middle class, and increasing demand for quality, consistency and international standards. Their long-term growth demonstrates the strength of well-structured franchise models, effective localization strategies, and strong brand equity, proving that global brands can successfully adapt and thrive in Pakistan’s dynamic market environment.
PAGE: Experts reckon a quantum growth over the next ten years in franchising business in Pakistan. What is your perspective?
Kalim Siddiqui: Franchising in Pakistan is poised for significant growth over the next decade, supported by rapid urbanisation, a young population, rising disposable incomes, and increasing awareness of structured business models. Investors are increasingly attracted to franchising because it offers lower risk through proven systems, established brand recognition, and operational support, making it a promising avenue for sustainable business expansion across multiple sectors.
PAGE: Franchising is not confined to food, it has also made its mark in fashion, wellness, retail, and services segments including Levi’s, Nike, Addidas, Next, Mothercare, Mango, Hyper Mart etc. What is your standpoint in this regard?
Kalim Siddiqui: Franchising in Pakistan has expanded well beyond the food sector into fashion, retail, wellness, and services, with brands like Levi’s, Nike, Adidas, Next, Mother care, Mango, and Hypersmart establishing a strong presence. This diversification highlight consumer trust in international brands and indicates a maturing retail landscape where standardised quality, global trends, and professional management are highly valued.
PAGE: What is your take on Pakistan Super League (PSL) as a brand?
Kalim Siddiqui: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has evolved into a powerful and influential brand, significantly enhancing Pakistan’s image in international cricket while generating substantial commercial value. Beyond sports, PSL has created strong fan engagement, attracted major sponsorships, and stimulated economic activity, positioning itself as one of the most successful and recognizable sports franchises in the region.