In 2022, Dr. Reena Sharma, a clinical scientist from Jaipur, took a bold step by launching Shandi Global, a brand dedicated to providing plant-based alternatives to meat. The inception of this innovative venture stemmed from a simple yet significant family moment.
The Inspiration
Dr. Reena’s journey began when her son expressed a craving for a burger. As a vegetarian family that had never even consumed eggs, Dr. Reena sought a suitable vegetarian option. Discovering an outlet advertising a plant-based chicken burger, she eagerly bought one for her son. However, the taste was disappointing, leaving much to be desired.
This experience ignited a spark in Dr. Reena. She took the half-eaten burger home, where her husband, Dr. Gaurav Sharma, a food scientist, began investigating its composition. Together, they envisioned creating a plant-based meat product that not only mimicked the taste of real meat but also retained its nutritional value.
The Birth of Shandi Global
Despite lacking a business background, the couple was determined to make their vision a reality. “Finally, we managed to make it. It was an achievement for us,” Dr. Reena shared. Their journey began modestly, but soon they moved to Singapore, securing senior positions and earning half a million dollars annually. Dr. Reena eventually left her job to pursue the startup full-time, with Dr. Gaurav’s unwavering support.
“Gaurav supported me in creating a unique product and building this brand from the beginning. Not just with his exceptional creativity but also in managing our home and our son, allowing me to dedicate 20 hours a day to building this company. Without his support and advice, Shandi Global could not have existed,” Dr. Reena says.
Growth and Success
In just three months, Dr. Reena turned down an $8 million offer and instead raised $750,000. With this capital, she built a factory, launched a website, and started selling plant-based meat at the B2B level. Shandi Global, now based in Singapore, offers 13 products made from proteins like chickpeas, mung beans, soybeans, and yellow peas. They’ve developed methods to replicate meat’s taste and aroma without added flavors, creating versatile whole-cut plant-based meat usable in over 50 recipes.
The brand’s valuation has soared to $30 million, with an annual revenue of $3.5 million. It operates B2B in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Canada, and Australia, with a presence in the Middle East, including Turkey. In the first quarter of 2025, Shandi Global plans to launch its retail operations in Australia and India, marking a significant expansion into the retail sector. The brand expects to reach a revenue of $10 million in FY-25.
Future Aspirations
“With the planned expansions in Australia, India, and North America, we anticipate crossing $100 million in revenue by FY 2026,” concludes Dr. Reena. Her vision and determination, combined with Dr. Gaurav’s expertise, have positioned Shandi Global as a leader in the plant-based food industry, poised for continued growth and innovation.