Driving change: How inclusive business models can shape Pakistan’s future

To flourish, corporate Pakistan needs to invest in people, embrace diversity, and adopt sustainable practices

Economic uncertainty and social challenges in Pakistan are forcing businesses to rethink traditional models and adopt inclusive, forward-thinking strategies. Companies willing to challenge the status quo are emerging as key drivers of societal transformation while fostering sustainable growth. This evolving approach highlights the potential for Pakistan’s corporate sector to address systemic issues and explore untapped opportunities.

The Power of Inclusive Initiatives

Inclusivity isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a business strategy that fosters innovation and growth. Muhammad Khosa, CEO of PepsiCo Pakistan, underscores this point through initiatives like the all-women distribution center in Sialkot, which has been operating successfully for three years. Staffed entirely by women, from leadership to field operatives, this centre exemplifies how companies can break gender barriers in a patriarchal society. 

Khosa shared insights into the company’s groundbreaking initiatives during a conversation with The Centrum Media (TCM)’s Founder, Talha Ahad on his podcast. He believes that inclusivity helps businesses stay relevant, especially when consumer demographics demand diverse perspectives. “Our consumers are women as well,” he noted during a conversation with The Centrum Media (TCM). This progressive mindset has been instrumental in reshaping PepsiCo Pakistan’s corporate culture, offering a model for others to follow.
 

Addressing Regional Disparities

Opportunities in Pakistan are often concentrated in urban hubs like Karachi and Lahore, leaving smaller cities and rural areas underrepresented. However, innovative companies are bridging this gap by leveraging technology and creative solutions.

PepsiCo’s Roshan Kal internship program is a prime example. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the program shifted to a virtual format, onboarding nearly 5,000 interns over three years. 

Expanding access to training and mentorship in less industrialised areas not only enhances workforce skills but also strengthens local economies. Companies tapping into regional talent pools can build sustainable supply chains and foster community development, driving growth beyond metropolitan centres.

Adapting to Change in Uncertain Times

The ability to adapt to changing market conditions is a hallmark of successful businesses. Khosa describes PepsiCo Pakistan’s “outside-in” approach as a strategy that prioritises understanding consumer needs and adjusting business practices accordingly. This philosophy has helped the company navigate economic turbulence while staying ahead of the curve.
 

Sustainability as a Long-Term Goal

Incorporating sustainability into business operations is no longer optional—it is essential for long-term success. Creating inclusive workspaces and improving conditions across the supply chain helps companies achieve profitability while addressing pressing environmental and social challenges. PepsiCo’s initiatives, such as promoting gender equity in the workplace, reflect the broader societal shifts necessary for sustainable development.
 

Scaling Innovation Across Industries

While individual programs like those of PepsiCo Pakistan demonstrate the impact of innovative thinking, systemic change requires broader adoption. Collaborative efforts between businesses, government bodies, and non-profits can amplify these successes. For instance, public-private partnerships could help scale virtual training programs or fund grassroots projects, creating ripple effects across industries.

These partnerships are particularly crucial for fostering youth development. Initiatives targeting underserved communities can bridge skill gaps and prepare young Pakistanis for an increasingly competitive global market. Programs like PepsiCo’s Roshan Kal internship serve as a template for creating opportunities in areas previously overlooked.
 

A Vision for Pakistan’s Corporate Future

Company such as PepsiCo Pakistan’s journey offers valuable lessons for the corporate sector. By embracing inclusivity, investing in underrepresented regions, and adapting to shifting market dynamics, businesses can drive meaningful change while achieving growth. However, replicating such initiatives across Pakistan’s socio-economic landscape will require courage, collaboration, and sustained commitment.

As Khosa noted on the Talha Ahad Podcast, “If you want to stay ahead, you need to change.” The success of programs like the all-women distribution centre and the virtual internship initiative suggests that inclusive, innovative business models are not only possible but also effective. For Pakistan’s corporate landscape, the path forward is clear: embrace diversity, invest in people, and adapt to a future where sustainable practices define success.

The question now is whether more organisations will rise to the challenge and follow this blueprint for transformational growth.