In the realm of Food and Beverages, women are emerging as powerful influencers, bringing a fresh perspective to an industry traditionally dominated by men. Their innovative approaches and unique insights contribute significantly to shaping the evolving landscape. Among these trailblazers is Sanchita Dhir, a young entrepreneur seamlessly transitioning from the dynamic world of film and fashion to the culinary domain, inheriting a rich legacy from her parents. Her journey reflects the broader narrative of women making impactful strides in F&B, demonstrating that diverse experiences and skills are invaluable assets. Sanchita's foray into the industry with ventures like Gourmer Services' exemplifies her commitment to breaking barriers, proving that the fusion of creativity and culinary expertise knows no bounds.

Engaging in an idiosyncratic interaction with Women Entrepreneur magazine, Sanchita shares the imperious details of her journey as one of the influencing entrepreneurs in the country. Let’s hear it from her.

Could you share insights into your ventures, Gourmer Services? What is the specialization of these brands?

Gourmer Services is a 19-year-old catering company. We lead a team of over 350 employees that craft over 25,000 meals daily and take pride in curating an experience that goes beyond mere sustenance.

What truly distinguishes us isn't just the exceptional quality of our products but the unwavering commitment to ensure these wholesome offerings are accessible for daily consumption. Gourmer Services embody a passion for not just serving food but creating a culture where every meal is a celebration of taste, health, and affordability, making it a part of everyday life.

In your perspective, what are the most challenging aspects of navigating the Indian F&B space? How do you tackle these obstacles?

The Indian F&B arena is a vibrant, competitive tapestry, demanding adaptability and resilience. I believe that staying abreast of industry trends is crucial. Building a team that not only thrives on creativity but also efficiency is a cornerstone of any successful venture. Challenges, to me, are not hurdles but invitations for growth and therefore embracing them as opportunities has been pivotal.

Reflecting on your professional journey, could you highlight the significant milestones you've achieved thus far?

My professional journey is a tapestry of diverse industries and experiences. From collaborating with entertainment giants like Netflix and Viacom 18 as a filmmaker, to delving into my sister's esteemed production house, navigating the glamour of Paris Fashion Week as a backstage stylist —it's been a whirlwind. The transition into the F&B industry marked a pivotal moment with Gourmer Services elevating the home kitchen experience for schools, corporates, and industrial areas with over 25,000 daily meals, setting a new standard in culinary excellence.

Barken's Bakery redefining the bread experience by introducing the first chemical and preservative-free option, at an affordable price. Each venture reflects my passion for exploration and innovation, where every milestone is not just a marker but a testament to the diverse chapters of my professional odyssey.

How do you effectively manage the balance between your distinct professional pursuits, given their inherently diverse and disparate nature?

Initially, I found myself juggling film projects and F&B, working tirelessly but realizing I wasn't excelling in either. This led to a decision to take a pause on films to focus on building something significant in catering. Although my passion for filmmaking persists, I now work as a silent producer, dedicating most of my attention to the catering business.

My goal is to automate and empower my team to handle it, allowing me the flexibility to navigate different industries. It's about finding that delicate balance between passion and pragmatism in the pursuit of building something enduring.

How do you anticipate the evolution of the Indian F&B landscape? What measures will you take to align your practices with industry needs?

The Indian F&B landscape is a dynamic canvas, everevolving, and I envision a future where every dish becomes a narrative, and every meal, an immersive experience. To align with this vision, I commit to staying ahead of the curve, leveraging technology as a tool for innovation, and placing sustainability at the core of our practices. Crafting offerings that resonate with the changing tastes and desires of our customers  is a heartfelt commitment for me.

A business leader you admire: My mom, a symbol of resilience and grace, navigates life with unwavering strength. Dad imparts wisdom, shaping my values. My sister, a trailblazer, inspires with determination and creative spirit, setting a passion-fueled standard for success.

Advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs/business leaders: My advice would be to fearlessly pursue your passions, even if they lead you to unexpected places. Embrace challenges, stay committed to your goals, and never underestimate the power of hard work. Surround yourself with a supportive team, and always be open to learning and  adapting.

Sanchita Dhir, CEO, Gourmer Services

Sanchita Dhir's journey from The Heritage School in Gurgaon to her college years at ISDI Parsons in Mumbai defines a narrative woven with curiosity and creativity. Venturing into the dynamic film industry, she collaborated with entertainment giants like Netflix, Viacom 18, and MX Player, honing her storytelling prowess. Sanchita is also the Co-founder of Barken's, a pioneering bakery brand revolutionizing the concept of clean bread, devoid of preservatives and chemicals. A stint with her sister's production house, Solo Trio Films added depth to her narrative-crafting skills. Paris Fashion Week introduced her to the glitz of the fashion world, blending seamlessly with her studies in fashion. Today, as the driving force behind Gourmer Services in the catering and food industry, Sanchita seamlessly merges storytelling and culinary arts.