Gnanam Imports (pvt) Ltd is a dynamic company that has emerged as a major player in the speciality foods industry.
Established in 1987, Gnanam Imports (Pvt) Ltd, has grown to become one of the key players in the Essential foods industry in Sri Lanka. We began our journey in trading of essential foods like Chilli, Pulses, and Canned fish and we are today a household name in the food sector and have been recognized for our continuous commitment to high quality, both locally and internationally.
Our company commenced operations as Gnanam Agency with a staff force of ten employees. Subsequently, our entity was incorporated into a private limited liability company in 1995 and Gnanam Imports (Pvt) Ltd was inaugurated. Since then, we have grown in size and established an island wide network of loyal customers with an ever-growing presence of new customers being added on year-on-year. Over the past 35 years, we have upheld ourselves as the largest trading firm catering to the demand within the Sri Lankan market.
We are one of the leading pulses and grains handler in Sri Lanka with major business interests in imports and wholesale distribution of Canned fish, Pulses, Dried Chili, Grains, and Spices. We are fortunate to have an enthusiastic workforce of more than 200 employees and our products are distributed through four-dedicated sales outlets, wholesalers, and retailers island wide. We ensure the highest standards of products by storing our goods at two state-of-the-art warehouse facilities with a total capacity of 100,000 sq/ft. Furthermore, a strong fleet consisting in excess of 30 vehicles gives us an edge over many competitors in distribution. This strategic expansion has enabled us to increase our potential and have proven a track record of success over the years.
Our trade partners come from across the globe with all major crop growing regions like India, Pakistan, Canada, USA, South America, Argentina, Russia, Ukraine, Myanmar, Australia and more represented.
As a market leader, Gnanam Imports is constantly abreast with evolving global trends in the food industry and is committed to bring in the best of the best products from around the world to Sri Lankan consumers.
Chairman, Gnanam Group of Companies
Mr.Rajendren Gnanasambanthan
Rajendren Gnanasambanthan is a man who embodies the values of hard work, resilience, and family. Born on 20th January 1961 in Avisawella, Sri Lanka, he was the youngest of the four siblings. His father introduced Mr. Rajendren to the world of business at a young age, and he developed a passion for it that would stay with him for life
His father, the late Gnanasambanthan and his mother, Valliamma alias Victoria, had imbued him with numerous values that he continues to uphold. Mr. Rajendren’s father began his path with limited means in a village new Avisawella, Sri Lanka, and established a successful business (K.N.G Kanapathy & Co.). He was a humble individual, consistently adorned in his Veshti, and possessed a distinctive character that prioritized maintaining connection to his origins. His mother displayed great kindness and nurtured those in her vicinity. Collectively, they upheld principles of compassion and empowering the younger generation.
Mr.Rajendren Gnanasambanthan
Life took a difficult turn for Mr. Rajendren and his family in 1983 when riots broke out in Sri Lanka. Their Property and business were damaged, and they were forced to move to India. He lived in India for four years, during which time, he had the opportunity to gain new experiences and develop his skills in the wholesale food Industry.
Mr. Rajendren entered into family life with Malathi, who has been a pillar of support and guiding force in all his endeavors. Together, they are blessed with three wonderful children. Mrs. Malathi’s unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in his personal and professional growth, providing him with strength and inspiration. Their loving family is a source of joy and fulfillment.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Rajendren was determined to rebuild his life and business in Sri Lanka. In 1987, he came back and founded Gnanam Agencies, a business that specialized in importing and distributing of essential food items. Over time, the company grew and expended its operations, eventually incorporating as Gnanam Imports Pvt Ltd.
As he started his business from the ground up, Rajendren held onto the values his father had instilled in him. He believed in treating his staff like family, respecting their contributions, and appreciating their input. He understood the importance of building trust with suppliers and consumers, recognizing that it was crucial for the long-term development of his company.
At the heart of Mr. Rajendren’s business philosophy was a commitment to quality. He prioritized product quality above profits, understanding that consistency and customer satisfaction were key to building a successful business. He also believed in making the essential food products affordable to all, ensuring that everyone could benefit from the quality and consistency he was known for.
Under Mr. Rajendren’s leadership, the Gnanam Group has grown significantly, and it now consists of several subsidiary companies, including Jeear, S-mart Global, Vigna Traders, Catch Spices, Vigna International Pvt Ltd and Tapasya Industries.
Mr. Rajendren holds a position as a member of the Global Pulses Confederation’s Executive committee. He served as the president of the Essential Food Commodities Importers and Traders Association from 2016 to 2022, and also, held the role of Vice Chairman within the import section of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.
Today, Mr. Rajendren is a successful businessman, a husband, and a father to three daughters. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience and the values that guide us through life.
OUR SUBSIDIARIES
Catch Spices
Jeear
S-mart Global
The Vigna Traders
Tapasya
