M. P. Ahammed is a dynamic entrepreneur best known for founding Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the world’s largest jewellery retail chains. His journey from a small spice trader to a global business leader is a testament to his vision, dedication, and business acumen. Over the years, he has expanded his empire beyond jewellery into real estate, digital appliances, and sustainable farming, making Malabar Group a diversified business powerhouse.
Early Life and Business Beginnings
Born on November 1, 1957, in Kerala, M. P. Ahammed grew up in a family of merchants and landlords. His entrepreneurial mindset developed early—at just 17 years old, he started his first business in agro-products. In 1981, at the age of 24, he expanded into the spice trade, dealing with cardamom, pepper, and coconuts.
Ahammed pursued his education at Government High School in Kozhikode and later completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Calicut. However, his real learning came from hands-on business experience and market observation.
The Birth of Malabar Gold & Diamonds
While involved in the spice trade, Ahammed noticed a lack of organization and transparency in the jewellery market. Recognizing a gap, he envisioned a customer-centric, trust-driven jewellery brand. In 1993, he founded Malabar Gold & Diamonds with an initial revenue of $5 million. His approach focused on quality, transparency, and customer trust, which quickly set Malabar apart from traditional jewellery businesses.
Expanding Malabar Gold & Diamonds
Under Ahammed’s leadership, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has grown into a global jewellery powerhouse. Today, the brand operates 350 showrooms across nine countries, serving millions of customers. The company’s success is rooted in its commitment to purity, fair pricing, and customer satisfaction, making it a trusted name in the industry.
Diversification into Other Sectors
- Ahammed didn’t limit himself to the jewellery business. The Malabar Group expanded into multiple industries:
- Real Estate: Malabar Developers was launched, leading to projects like the Mall of Travancore, India’s first green mall.
- Digital Appliances: A partnership with Eham Digitals led to the manufacturing of household appliances.
- Sustainable Farming: Through Green Thumb, Malabar Group promoted organic farming initiatives, supporting sustainability and environmental conservation.
Legacy and Inspiration
M. P. Ahammed’s journey from a small spice trader to a global business leader is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs. His success is built on hard work, innovation, and a customer-first approach. Through Malabar Gold & Diamonds and other ventures, he has created a business empire that continues to grow while staying true to its values.
His story proves that vision, perseverance, and adaptability can transform a simple business idea into a global success story.
