Photo source: Pexels

Building a legacy takes resilience, vision, and the ability to adapt to challenges. Behind every successful business journey lies a network of support that empowers individuals to transform dreams into reality. This story is a testament to how determination, strong partnerships, and innovative thinking may overcome even the most daunting obstacles.

Building relationships that grow into legacies

Canadian Manufacturing has a rich history intertwined with Metrobank's unwavering commitment to their growth. Hiro Asandas Daryanani, Founder of Canadian Manufacturing, shared the beginnings of his journey with Metrobank: "I got off the ship in 1954, a multimillionaire in ideas but a pauper in money. When Metrobank came into the picture, they gave me the confidence to grow. I still attend their anniversaries at 92 years old, reminiscing about the journey." 

Hiro fondly remembered his personal relationship with the Ty family. "The grandmother of the bank’s chairman, Arthur Ty, treated me like a son. She once invited me to her office and said, 'I am opening a bank, Hiro.' That bank became Metrobank, and I have been with them since their first ribbon-cutting in 1962."

The journey to success

In 1954, Hiro arrived in the Philippines with big ideas and the determination to succeed. Hailing from India, he started from scratch in a post-war Philippines. Despite early struggles, Hiro built his business through sheer perseverance, selling goods door-to-door. He vividly recalled walking kilometers daily, often surviving on a meal budget of 50 centavos a day.

Photo source: Canadian Manufacturing Facebook page

The company introduced comforters to the Philippine market, which was a pioneering move. Ravi Daryanani, Chairman of Canadian Manufacturing recounted "We were aggressively exporting originally we were about 95% domestic, 5% export. By 1990 we were 95% export and 5% domestic". 

Then signs of financial crises rose and there were a lot of uncertainties in the other countries. Ravi felt that local malls were expanding and he realized that they should capitalize on that and start focusing a lot on product development for the local market.

"Previously people only used bed sheets to cover themselves but aircons were also being aggressively sold at the time and people needed something warmer to keep them comfortable during sleep. We were amazed when our first comforter sold. From producing one a day, mechanization allowed us to produce 3 to 400 comforters a day which were pre-sold and the rest was history."

However, every expansion gave a discomfort at the back of the minds of the Daryanani family but Metrobank always had their back and to Ravi, it gave him a sense of security.

Strategic partnership with Metrobank

Metrobank played a crucial role in Canadian Manufacturing's growth. Hiro recounted the early days: "I was a nobody, but Metrobank believed in me. They opened doors, provided solutions, and trusted us. Their trust encouraged us to pursue plans that seemed impossible."

Through Metrobank's support, Canadian Manufacturing expanded from a small operation to employing over 900 people by the 1990s. 

Ravi emphasized Metrobank's vital role in their company’s growth, "Metrobank always had our back. That assurance allowed us to grow from one floor to four in this building because with them, we felt secured."

Ravi also highlighted Metrobank's comprehensive offerings, "Anything a business needs, Metrobank has. From loans to telegraphic transfers and insurance through AXA, they cover it all. Their competitive rates and excellent service make them indispensable."

The bank provided Canadian Manufacturing with a wealth of services to help the Daryanani family efficiently manage and grow their business. 

"We make sure that all banking services they need are available to them. We offered basic loan packages, trade services to help facilitate importation, and cash management services to make it easier to pay their suppliers. We also provide access to foreign currency solutions, as well as investments and trust services. Basically, we’re here to make sure that we support their growth," Joey Mapa, Head of Metrobank Commercial Banking for Metro Manila said. 

Adaptation and sustainability 

Fast forward to today, Canadian Manufacturing continues to grow – constantly improving quality and ensuring sustainability. 

Chand Daryanani, President of Canadian Manufacturing, reflected on their future, "We are expanding sustainably. We are using innovative materials and expanding our facility while creating jobs in rural areas and Metrobank's consistent support ensures we can continue this journey." 

A family legacy

As the founder, Hiro summarized their journey, "Take life as it comes. Bounce back like a good tennis ball. That was how we built this business and found the right partner, like Metrobank."

As the second-generation business owner, Ravi described their approach: "Work as a team and learn to compromise. Mistakes are part of growth and our family's unity keeps us moving forward."

Photo source: Metrobank Facebook page 

Chand, the company’s current president, shared valuable insights from his perspective as a third-generation leader. Chand expressed, "I am lucky to learn from my grandfather and father's wisdom. Their experiences guide me in adapting to modern challenges, like integrating technology and responding to market disruptions." This deep-rooted knowledge has not only shaped his leadership style but also helped him navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving financial landscape.

"The values of Mr. Hiro have transcended three generations. It is quite deliberate that we look, and we appreciate clients where the principles from the first gen get passed down to the second, get passed down to the third. This is because we know that having that set of core values passed on across generations is critical in growing a family-run business like this," Mapa said.

As you reflect on the importance of such wisdom in your own financial journey, take the first step toward securing your future. Explore the wealth of resources available through Metrobank to help you achieve financial stability. 

Visit Metrobank's website and connect with them on social media to start your business’ growth story today.