When S. Srinivasan decided to leave his corporate career of over two decades and enter the food business, his friends thought he was making a mistake. Two years since they made this move and started ‘Desi Foods’, Srinivasan and his wife Uma Srinivasan have proved them wrong.
The couple began by supplying 350 ready-to-eat chappatis a day. Today, on an average, the unit at Madipakkam rolls out 3,000 every day. “Initially, we supplied to retail outlets. We had to take back the chappatis that were nor sold. Now, we focus on corporate and catering contractors where we have a regular supply,” says Srinivasan, who worked in the marketing division with companies such as Britannia and Henkel.
Uma, who quit Ramco Systems, takes care of the production side of the enterprise where two other women help her knead, roll out and seal chapattis. “The business has taught me to adapt to any situation. Sometimes, I get a huge order to be delivered at short notice and I have to deliver,” says Uma, a food blogger. The Srinivasans, residents of Velachery, are aware of the competition and the need to start new initiatives. “There are at least 30 ready-to-eat chapatti brands and we are constantly upgrading our enterprise,” he says. Door-delivery system was introduced with five sets of chapattis and sabji priced at Rs.175. They also prepare a range of organic food including samosa, ragi rolls and short eats. “We supply evening snacks to five companies and have tied with organic store Jaycee Greens,” he says. Next on their plate is opening a bakery. To know more about Desi Foods, call 9500021540, 9962530871 or visit www.desifoodschennai.com.
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