From humble beginnings to an award-winning SME, Dashmesh Singapore has grown into a trusted name in South Asian food distribution.

Started in 1985 by Mr Nachhattar Singh, Dashmesh Singapore (“Dashmesh”) was built on entrepreneurial vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to service - principles that laid the foundation for the company’s current success. Beginning as a one-man operation, Mr Singh introduced reputable brands such as Fonterra and Sime Darby to the Singaporean market, as Dashmesh endeavoured to distinguish itself in a sector dominated by established players.

While its early years were marked by long hours, modest margins, and fierce competition, Dashmesh quickly established a reputation for excellence defined by personalised service, accessibility, and an unwavering focus on quality. Through perseverance and strategic foresight, the company steadily expanded into wholesale, retail, maritime supply, food services, and exports. In its next phase of growth from 1997 to 2004, Dashmesh broadened its product portfolio, introducing popular brands such as Daawat and Lal Qilla.

In 2004, the company reached a significant milestone with its formal incorporation as Dashmesh Singapore Pte Ltd. This pivotal moment also coincided with the adoption of digital systems including SAP, which enhanced the company’s operational efficiency across logistics, marketing, and supply chain management.

Malika Dhals and Temasek Gold

BRAND EXPANSION AND MARKET REACH

In 2006, Dashmesh launched its own in-house brands to further distinguish itself in a competitive market. Temasek Gold Basmati Rice and the Malika range – comprising basmati rice, lentils, nuts, and spices – quickly gained traction among consumers. Today, these products are stocked in major supermarket chains including NTUC FairPrice, Sheng Siong, Giant, and Cold Storage. Embracing the shift towards digital retail, Dashmesh has also made its offerings available on leading e-commerce platforms such as RedMart and Amazon, demonstrating its agility in responding to evolving consumer behaviours and market demand.

These rigorous standards ensure that every product meets the level of quality and consistency that has become synonymous with the Dashmesh name.

With a growing supply chain that spans India, Vietnam, Italy, and beyond, Dashmesh’s expansion reflects Mr Singh’s global outlook, strategic sourcing, and long-term vision. As the company continues to scale, it upholds stringent quality control through close collaboration with suppliers and regular internal audits. These rigorous standards ensure that every product meets the level of quality and consistency that has become synonymous with the Dashmesh name.

Dashmesh staff at the Loyang warehouse

LEADERSHIP, CULTURE, AND CONTINUITY

At the heart of Dashmesh lies a deeply rooted family ethos. While Mr Singh continues to lead the company, his wife, Mdm Harneet Kaur, serves as Director and is admired for her empathetic leadership and steady presence. Their daughter, Malika, joined the company in 2023 as an Import Executive and now serves as Operations Manager, steadily assuming greater responsibilities within the business. She is supported by Ms Kiranjit Kaur, the company’s General Manager and a 19-year veteran who is regarded as family. The company will soon welcome Mr Singh’s son, Saheb, who is poised to join the rest of his family following the completion of his tertiary education, thereby ensuring continuity into the next generation.

Mr Singh remains the guiding force behind Dashmesh, championing collaboration and in-person engagement in an increasingly digital world. His belief in the power of collective effort continues to shape the company’s culture and long-term success. Dashmesh has also demonstrated remarkable resilience through economic disruptions, including the SARS outbreak in 2003 and the COVID-19 crisis. During the pandemic, the company swiftly pivoted to digital platforms, compensating for declines in food services and exports by strengthening its online presence and forging new partnerships. Today, Dashmesh is powered by a workforce of nearly 70 staff, operating a fleet of 15 vehicles - a testament to steady growth and strategic expansion.

2022 SME100 awards ceremony

RECOGNITION, RESPONSIBILITY, AND THE FUTURE

As Singapore celebrates its 60th year of nationhood, Dashmesh proudly marks its 40th anniversary – a milestone that reflects the founder’s vision, the dedication of its team, and the enduring support of its partners and customers. The company’s achievements have been recognised through multiple accolades, including the SME 100 Award (2022) and ISO 9001/2000 certification in 2008. Notably, Dashmesh has been the recipient of the SME award for several years, consistently underscoring its sustained excellence, determination, and adaptability.

Beyond commercial success, Dashmesh is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility. The company regularly sponsors community events such as Iftar gatherings, Sikh celebrations, and private institution sports days. Its civic-minded approach sees support for initiatives like Yellow Ribbon Singapore and ongoing contributions to local foundations.

From its modest roots to its current status as a digitally enabled, award-winning Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME), Dashmesh remains anchored by its founding mission: to deliver affordable, high-quality food products without compromise. That promise, founded in integrity, service, and family values, continues to guide its journey forward.