Kerala has long been a hub for entrepreneurial opportunities, dating back to the 1850s. Over 175 years ago, visionary entrepreneurs saw the potential of the region’s spice trade. The scents of pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric were the beginning of a fragrant business revolution, giving birth to one of the world’s most valuable industries, spices.
The Rise of Mane Kancor
The first entrepreneurs to capitalize on the spice trade transformed Kerala’s economy, expanding from pepper exports to value-added products. One of the standout names in this industry today is Mane Kancor, which represents Kerala’s evolution from spice export to a global leader in the spice business. Established in Ernakulam, Mane Kancor now holds a prominent position in the spice sector with a worldwide presence.
The Role of Geemon Korah in Mane Kancor’s Success
Geemon Korah, the Executive Director and CEO of Mane Kancor, highlights the company’s rich history, rooted in Kerala’s spice legacy. Starting in the 1850s, entrepreneurs like Kanchi Morarji helped shape the spice trade, creating a lasting impact on the global market. Mane Kancor has successfully taken this tradition and evolved it into a world-renowned business, contributing significantly to Kerala’s economy.
Kerala: A Hub for Spice Processing and Innovation
Kerala is now recognized as a global hub for spice processing, with over 8 factories in India and a presence in more than 120 countries. Mane Kancor’s state-of-the-art processing facilities and innovative technology have enabled it to lead the spice sector worldwide. The company has become synonymous with quality and professionalism, establishing strong partnerships with international corporations.
The Potential of Kerala’s Spice Industry
Despite competition from countries like Vietnam and Indonesia, Kerala’s edge lies in its superior quality of spices, processing technology, and extraction systems. Mane Kancor continues to drive this industry forward, not just in India but on a global scale.
Building a Thriving Business Ecosystem
The success of companies like Mane Kancor demonstrates Kerala’s conducive environment for business growth. A well-developed research ecosystem, skilled workforce, and supportive infrastructure have helped local companies scale internationally. Geemon Korah emphasizes that Kerala provides the ideal conditions for spice-related businesses to flourish.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Geemon Korah shares valuable advice for entrepreneurs looking to start their journey: “Don’t follow the conventional paths that others have walked. To succeed in business, you must find unique, extraordinary, and innovative solutions. Differentiation is key to leaving your mark in the industry.”
