The Story of One of Pakistan's Largest Textile Producers
"For the company's culture to change, I had to transform myself first," says Fawad Anwar, Managing Director of AlKaram Textile Mills (Pvt) Ltd., while talking about the most significant difference in the Alkaram of today compared to previous decades.
In this rare interview, he speaks about the history, values, and leadership of one of Pakistan's largest textile producers.
Foundations and Early Growth
The Alkaram story began when Fawad Anwar's family migrated from Gujarat to Karachi during Partition. The business was formally established in 1986 after acquiring Adamjee Industries, though the family had been in textiles since the early 1950s. The name "Alkaram" combines Fawad's grandparents' names - Karim and Amna.
Born and raised in Karachi, Fawad earned an MBA from Drexel University in the U.S. before returning to join the family business. True to family tradition, he started from the ground up, learning every aspect of production, which proved invaluable when he began leading the business.
Building an Export Powerhouse
The transition to exports marked a pivotal chapter for Alkaram. Initially lacking export experience, the company gradually built international connections, including collaborating with a Dutch agent to identify local manufacturing partners. Fawad recalls the hands-on approach required in those early days, personally escorting potential clients to production sites across Karachi.
Today, Alkaram employs over 8,000 people with international offices in New York and Portugal, serving major retailers like Walmart, IKEA, Target, and Pottery Barn.
The Dynamics of A Family-Run Business
The past decade transformed Alkaram from family-run operation to a professionally managed organization. To lead this transformation, Fawad transformed his own perspective—attending seminars and trainings to learn how to create an organization’s culture. While moving away from a primarily owner-driven model has been difficult, it has proved essential for sustainable growth.
At the same time, the family remains deeply connected to the business. Each family member has clearly defined roles, and valuing elders’ guidance remains fundamental to Alkaram’s ethos.
Core Values Driving Success
Fawad believes that strong values are fundamental to Alkaram's success.
The company operates under eight core principles known as "V8” which emphasize delivering on commitments, maintaining absolute honesty, and prioritizing sustainability. It has invested significantly in eco-friendly practices including water recycling and carbon footprint reduction, while also obtaining Fair Trade certification to ensure ethical labor practices.
Competing in Global Markets
Pakistan's textile export sector has faced significant challenges, where only a handful of bedding exporters remain from what was once a field of 200. Alkaram has navigated these challenges including high production costs and currency fluctuations by focusing on operational efficiencies. Fawad believes these economic pressures ultimately strengthened Pakistan's value-added textile sector, making it "far more competitive than its neighboring countries."
The company’s commitment to research and development (R&D) has been particularly crucial in maintaining its competitiveness. Fawad sees R&D not as a “cost” but as “one of the driving forces of business.” Alkaram has been internationally recognized for its continuous innovation in fabrics, finishes, and design. Its products and campaigns have also become trendsetters for Pakistan's textile industry.
Leadership and Future Vision
As a third-generation leader, Fawad balances respect for tradition with forward-thinking adaptation. He notes the different perspectives of younger family members currently pursuing diverse educational paths abroad, while remaining confident that they will eventually contribute to the business.
Looking ahead, Fawad is decidedly optimistic and advocates for promoting Pakistan’s strengths to global partners, countering negative stereotypes that sometimes hinder trade relationships.
Sustaining Excellence
Alkaram's journey demonstrates how family businesses can evolve into industry leaders through a combination of strong values, adaptability, and commitment to quality. Under Fawad Anwar's leadership, the company continues to navigate challenges while maintaining its position at the forefront of Pakistan's textile export sector.
What do you think is the most important factor for Pakistani businesses to succeed globally? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
This article was developed with the assistance of AI tools.
