Kanwal: Navigating uncertainity and building for tomorrow
By Tajuddin Malik, Nupur Bang, Sougata Ray
Harvard Business Publishing | September 2024
Harvard Business Publishing | September 2024
DOI
store.hbr.org/product/kanwal-navigating-uncertainty-and-building-for-tomorrow/ISB440?srsltid=AfmBOoqqNhC7j--tsUVhHUyP9lBd-0keYQYk3Oa9d0R1kE1EkP_5Mymd
Citation
Malik, Tajuddin., Bang, Nupur., Ray, Sougata. (2023). Kanwal: Navigating uncertainity and building for tomorrow Harvard Business Publishing store.hbr.org/product/kanwal-navigating-uncertainty-and-building-for-tomorrow/ISB440?srsltid=AfmBOoqqNhC7j--tsUVhHUyP9lBd-0keYQYk3Oa9d0R1kE1EkP_5Mymd.
Copyright
Harvard Business Publishing, 2023
Share:
Abstract
Kanwal, a family-owned business deeply rooted in the conflict-ridden region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), India, presents a compelling story of entrepreneurial spirit, adaptability, and resilience. Founded in 1971 by Mohd. Amin Chadinoo, Kanwal embarked on a journey to bring the rich flavors of Kashmir to the world, navigating a complex business landscape fraught with geopolitical instability and socioeconomic and ecological fragility. In January 2020, Kanwal faced an existential crisis. Despite establishing itself as a leading player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector of northern India, the company grappled with mounting financial pressures and declining sales amid a region-wide lockdown. Amin and his sons, Farooq and Nisar, reflected on their decision to prioritize family business over other lucrative options and contemplated the future of Kanwal and the strategies needed to weather the storm of a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment. The Kanwal story highlights the crucial role of "familiness" and social capital, where their close-knit bonds, shared values, and commitment to social responsibility fostered collective resilience and a shared purpose