Adiva Sodhbans – Sandea Wholesale
As we reflect on an exceptional year, Sandea Wholesale Ltd continues to stand at the forefront of the wholesale industry, offering a broad range of market-leading products across FMCG, OTC, cosmetics, and toiletries. With a focus on agility, customer satisfaction, and innovation, Sandea Wholesale has experienced significant growth in 2024, achieving remarkable milestones.
The Foundation of Sandea Wholesale
The story of Sandea Wholesale begins with Sanjeet Manek, a visionary entrepreneur originally from Tanzania. “I moved to the UK, where I studied at university and worked in investment banking for around 12 years,” shares Sanjeet. “When the pandemic hit, I realized my desire to work for myself rather than someone else.
Hence, in 2019, I ventured into wholesaling with the creation of Sandea Wholesale. This felt like a natural transition for me, as I found wholesaling resembled investment banking, but with a focus on trading physical goods instead of stocks and shares.”
Starting a business requires substantial financial backing, and Sanjeet relied on his personal savings and investments to fund the company in its early days. His financial expertise, combined with a passion for business, set the foundation for Sandea Wholesale’s remarkable growth trajectory.
Sanjeet Manek
Building a Diverse Team
One of the cornerstones of Sandea Wholesale’s success is its diverse and talented team. Sanjeet has been deliberate in his approach to recruitment, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and traditional advertisements to attract skilled professionals.
What sets Sandea apart is its commitment to supporting immigrants, providing them with opportunities that match their expertise and skills. “Many of our team members are immigrants who bring unique perspectives and specialized knowledge. We believe in offering them a platform to excel and contribute to our growth,” says Sanjeet.
2024: A Year of Growth and Recognition
This year, we were proud to receive recognition for our efforts in diversity and inclusion, winning the Diversity and Inclusion Award at the Nachural Business Awards. This award is a reflection of our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace and fostering a positive impact in the industry.
Additionally, we have garnered attention through our consistent growth, evidenced by multiple accolades, including the Rising Star Award at the Who’s Who Award Ceremony at the House of Commons and Group Rising Star at the Sugro UK Annual Trade Show.
Community Engagement and Sponsorship
At Sandea Wholesale, we understand the importance of supporting the communities in which we operate. In 2024, we proudly sponsored the Cambridge Pakistani Society, contributing to local initiatives that align with our core values and strengthen community ties. Alongside this, we continued our sponsorship of golfer Jack Kelly, helping individuals pursue their dreams and achieve excellence in their fields.
One of the highlights of this year was the Diwali celebration hosted at our offices, bringing together colleagues, friends, family, suppliers, and customers to celebrate the spirit of unity and joy. The event was a testament to our company culture of inclusivity and engagement, reflecting our role as an active member of the business community.
Adapting to Market Changes: E-Commerce Growth and Strategic Adjustments
2024 has also seen significant developments in our digital presence. With the launch of our new e-shop, we have made it easier for retailers to access our extensive product range, showcasing our commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the digital landscape. The growth of e-commerce, accelerated by shifting consumer behaviors and the rise of online shopping, has presented new opportunities, and we’ve leveraged this by enhancing our digital infrastructure to meet evolving demands.
At the same time, the ongoing cost of living crisis has had a profound impact on consumer spending patterns. In response, we have adjusted our pricing strategy to ensure that we remain competitive while delivering value to our customers. By closely monitoring market trends, we have been able to maintain a balance between quality products and affordability, ensuring that our clients can continue to thrive in challenging economic times.
Maintaining Company Culture Amid Growth
As the business scales, maintaining the core company culture becomes increasingly important. Sanjeet emphasizes the importance of open communication, team collaboration, and fostering a sense of belonging among employees.
“We prioritize regular team meetings, recognition programs, and opportunities for professional growth to keep our culture intact. A strong company culture is not just about the work environment; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute,” he explains.
Why Customers Choose Sandea Wholesale
Customers are drawn to Sandea Wholesale for its comprehensive product range, offering a diverse selection of FMCG, OTC, cosmetics, and toiletries that cater to high-demand markets. The company’s customer-centric approach fosters trust and loyalty, as it prioritizes building strong relationships, listening to client needs, and adapting to ensure customer success.
Competitive pricing is another key factor, achieved by efficiently managing costs and leveraging strategic partnerships, enabling Sandea to deliver value without compromising on quality. Furthermore, Sandea Wholesale’s commitment to innovation and investment in digital solutions keeps the company ahead of industry trends, providing clients with a seamless, modern experience that meets evolving market demands.
Challenges and Future Plans
While the journey has been rewarding, it has not been without challenges. The shift to digital commerce, rising operational costs, and fluctuating market dynamics require constant adaptation and strategic planning. Despite these challenges, Sanjeet remains optimistic about the future.
“Our focus is on expanding our global reach, enhancing our digital infrastructure, and exploring new markets. Innovation and sustainability will be key drivers of our growth in the coming years.”
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those considering venturing into business, Sanjeet offers valuable advice: “Building trust is more important than sales. If the prospect does not trust you, it’s game over. Focus on delivering value, understanding your market, and staying resilient in the face of challenges.”
Sandea Wholesale’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and community. As we look ahead, we remain committed to empowering our clients, supporting our community, and driving innovation in the wholesale sector.