When Praful and Usha Bhavsar arrived in the UK from East Africa, they brought with them a passion for the flavours and family recipes they had grown up with. It was only a matter of time before Praful began preparing his own pastry, in the garage with simple tools, that he sold directly it to shops serving the Asian communities of North West London, with instructions so they could fold spring rolls and samosas for their customers.

 

The business quickly outgrew its premises and needed a new home. With characteristic ingenuity, Praful applied for a small business grant which enabled their relocation to a light industrial unit, and the launch of UPB Products in 1981. The business rapidly expanded its range to include signature Asian snacks, kebabs and specialities. Handmade by a skilled team, using the finest natural ingredients, UPB earned a reputation for outstanding quality and great taste, gaining a loyal customer base amongst convenience store owners across London.

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In 2002 Praful and Usha’s son Amit joined the business. Trained as a Chartered Accountant and passionate about great food, he brought a new vision to the company. Working with marketing and design professionals he launched the Café Asia brand in 2005, which became a catalyst for innovation and international growth and helped secure listings with major UK and International retailers. The years that followed established UPB as the leader in frozen Asian snacks, proudly continuing the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality that this family business was founded on more than 40 years ago.