Success stories often inspire people to pursue their dreams, but few have made such an impact as Rajini Bector, the founder of Mrs. Bector’s Food Specialities and Cremica Group of Companies. Rajini’s entrepreneurial journey is a living example of how passion, resilience, and an unwavering belief in oneself can turn any challenge into an opportunity for growth.
A Humble Beginning
Rajini Bector was born in Karachi, Pakistan, in 1940, and raised in Lahore. Her early years were marked by the hardships faced by her family during the India-Pakistan partition. The traumatic journey from Pakistan to India was not easy; her family waited for a week at a train station in the scorching heat with no sign of a train. Rajini vividly recalls the horrifying sight of dead bodies lying near the train tracks. Her family eventually relocated to Delhi, where Rajini’s story would take a new turn.
In 1957, at the age of 17, Rajini was married, and soon found herself adjusting to life in Ludhiana, a small town in Punjab, which was very different from the bustling city of Delhi. Her initial years of marriage were tough. With a conservative mother-in-law and a new environment to adapt to, Rajini found solace in the kitchen. She discovered a deep love for cooking and soon began experimenting with various food items, especially baking.
From the Kitchen to Entrepreneurship
Rajini’s love for cooking led her to attend several culinary workshops and eventually learn baking techniques. At the time, there were very few catering services in India, and Rajini took it upon herself to prepare a variety of food for her family and friends.
Her breakthrough came when she was tasked with preparing food for a local MLA’s granddaughter’s wedding. Despite the challenge of cooking for 2,000 people, Rajini rose to the occasion with the help of two assistants. Her food was well-received, and it was the beginning of her food business journey. Rajini began holding cooking classes for a few students, but her mother-in-law questioned her decision to earn money when the family was already well-off. Nevertheless, Rajini’s husband supported her entrepreneurial spirit.
The Birth of Cremica
In 1978, Rajini took a significant step forward in her entrepreneurial journey. With an investment of ₹20,000, she set up an ice cream production unit in the backyard of her home, naming it “Cremica.” She started selling her ice cream at local events and fairs, where her products quickly gained popularity. In a memorable moment, her ice cream was more loved than the renowned brand it was being sold next to, which gave her business the boost it needed.
Encouraged by the success, she expanded her offerings to include biscuits, breads, and cookies. Rajini’s sons became involved in the business and helped it grow to new heights.
National Recognition and International Expansion
In 1995, when McDonald’s entered the Indian market, they sought out suppliers for bread and buns. After an extensive search across the country, they chose Cremica as their supplier. It was a turning point for Rajini’s company. The partnership with McDonald’s helped Cremica expand its operations, and the first bread manufacturing plant was set up in Ludhiana. Today, Cremica supplies bread to McDonald’s restaurants across India.
Over the years, Rajini expanded her company further by venturing into supplying products to global brands like Quaker Oats. However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The challenges of dealing with a large international brand like McDonald’s were immense, and Cremica faced several quality control issues. But Rajini’s determination and resilience paid off. After much effort, Cremica perfected its products, and today, the company is one of the largest suppliers to McDonald’s in India.
Cremica now exports its products to over 60 countries and is the second-largest exporter of biscuits from India. It is also a key supplier of Western sweets for most North Indian weddings.
A Journey of Success
By 2023, Rajini’s business had grown into a ₹7,000 crore empire. Her entrepreneurial journey, from a small home-based ice cream business to one of India’s largest food companies, is a testament to her determination and passion. Rajini’s story is not just about business success, but also about overcoming personal and societal challenges. In recognition of her achievements, she was honored with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, in 2021.
Her story has inspired millions of Indian women who dream of starting their own businesses. Rajini Bector is a shining example of how hard work, perseverance, and following one’s passion can turn dreams into reality.
Her journey proves that when you are determined and strong in your resolve, no one can stop you from achieving success. Rajini Bector’s legacy continues to motivate not just entrepreneurs, but anyone who dares to dream big.
Credit – www.cremica.in/about
