About

Our Founder's Story

Born in 1958 in Khotang, Mr. Min Bahadur Gurung grew up in a modest farming family. After completing high school, he moved to the city, earning a Master’s degree in Economics from Tribhuvan University. Following a successful career in banking, he ventured into the retail industry with a vision to transform shopping in Nepal.

In 1984, Mr. Gurung co-founded Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket with his wife, Mrs. Sabitri Gurung, whose contributions were instrumental in the business’s early success. While Mr. Gurung focused on expansion, Mrs. Gurung managed day-to-day operations, building a strong foundation for the store. Her dedication and hard work during the formative years were pivotal to the growth of what is now Nepal’s largest retail chain. Together, they have created 27 stores, providing jobs for thousands and a superior shopping experience for millions, earning national recognition for their impact on Nepal’s economy and society.

About Us

Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket (BBSM) is the largest retailer in Nepal and the only supermarket chain with a nationwide presence.

From humble beginnings to becoming Nepal's most trusted retail giant, Bhat-Bhateni was established in 1984 on a 120 sq. ft. area store. Since then, the founder and Chairman, Mr. Min Bahadur Gurung and his wife, Mrs. Sabitri Gurung have dedicated themselves to making a difference in the lives of Nepali customers through BBSM.

Today, Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket has a nationwide presence and 27 stores in major cities of Nepal. As Nepal’s largest retail chain, BBSM offers a range of 150,000 products from 1,500 local and international suppliers, committed to providing products of the highest quality for the best prices

Our Mission

To save consumers' time and money by providing varieties of quality product at the best possible price, under a single roof.

Our Vision

To be an organization that facilitates Nepalese economy, provides employment and enriches quality of life

Our Goals

·        To be present in every major city of Nepal

·        To become the number one shoppers' stop where customers can shop for themselves and their entire family

·        To provide an international shopping experience to Nepali citizens across the country

·        To be a socially responsible business that fulfills its corporate social responsibility by providing resources and infrastructure to different segments of the society

Revenue

In the fiscal year 2023/24, BBSM celebrated an impressive annual turnover of USD 246 million. Currently, the vibrant corridors of BBSM welcome over 300,000 visitors each day. Collaborating harmoniously with 1,500 national and international vendors, BBSM stands as a beacon of opportunity, employing 8,500 individuals, with an inspiring 95% of its workforce being female.

The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of BBSM's overall turnover shines at 11.92%. As the dawn of fiscal year 2024/25 approaches, BBSM is poised to reach a remarkable turnover of USD 337 million.

BBSM Infrastructure

Banking and Financial Credibility

Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket (BBSM) is committed to financial transparency and leveraging robust banking partnerships to support its sustained growth and expansion.

Robust Financial Backing

·       BBSM has access to USD 160.55 million in banking facilities provided by a consortium of leading financial institutions. This ensures a strong financial foundation to support operations, expansions, and innovative initiatives.

Lead Banking Partner

·  Standard Chartered Bank Nepal Limited leads the consortium of banks supporting BBSM. This partnership underscores the company’s financial credibility and trustworthiness, which are integral to its business operations.

Transparency

·   BBSM prioritizes openness and accountability in its financial dealings. Direct inquiries regarding financial credibility and partnerships are welcomed through Standard Chartered Bank, reinforcing its commitment to transparency and stakeholder confidence

These initiatives reflect BBSM’s dedication to maintaining financial integrity and building strong relationships with banking partners to ensure its continued success.

Corporate Social Responsiblity

Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket (BBSM) is deeply committed to creating a positive social impact through its comprehensive CSR initiatives. By focusing on healthcare, education, disaster relief, and community development, BBSM strives to improve the lives of Nepalis nationwide.

Healthcare Contributions

·        Children's Hospital: Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket (BBSM) has made a landmark contribution of USD 3.03 million to establish a state-of-the-art children's hospital in Nepal. This facility is dedicated to providing advanced medical care for children, addressing a critical gap in pediatric healthcare. It includes modern equipment, specialized wards, and expert medical personnel to ensure comprehensive services.

·     Emergency Healthcare: Bhat-Bhateni has played a transformative role in enhancing healthcare at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. It has funded USD 1.7 million for a modern emergency ward, equipped with cutting-edge facilities to handle critical cases efficiently. Additionally, an investment of USD 1.11 million supported the construction of an Emergency Health Services (EHS) building, designed to improve emergency response capabilities.

Pandemic and Disaster Relief

·       COVID-19 Relief: Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket allocated USD 207,000 to bolster Nepal’s pandemic response. This support included significant financial aid to all seven provincial governments and the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund, enabling critical healthcare infrastructure improvements, procurement of medical supplies, and direct aid to impacted communities.

·      Disaster Relief Efforts: Demonstrating unwavering commitment during times of crisis, BBSM provided substantial financial assistance and essential supplies to victims of natural disasters, including the 2015 earthquake and recurring floods. The support ranged from immediate relief efforts like food and shelter provision to longer-term rehabilitation projects aimed at rebuilding affected communities.

Awards and Recognition 

Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket (BBSM) has earned numerous accolades for its pioneering efforts in Nepal’s retail and business sectors, reflecting its commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.

Key Achievements

National Taxpayer Awards

·        Largest Taxpayer in Nepal: Recognized as the largest taxpayer in the commodity trading sector for three consecutive years by the Ministry of Finance.

·        Awarded by the Finance Minister: Honored for consistent contributions to Nepal’s economy through transparent and ethical business practices.

Retail Excellence

·        Top Retail Brand: Consistently ranked as Nepal’s most trusted retail chain, setting the benchmark for quality and customer service.

·        Revolutionizing Nepal's Retail Industry: Recognized for introducing international shopping standards and transforming the retail experience across the country.

Sustainability Leadership

·     Green Initiative Recognition: Commended for producing 12.75 MW of solar power through its partnership with Renew Holdings, utilizing store rooftops and vacant spaces to promote renewable energy. Key Achievements

Investment Portfolio

Bhat-Bhateni Group demonstrates a strong commitment to diversified investments across various sectors, fostering sustainable growth and contributing to Nepal’s economic development. Key sectors and investments include:

Banking and Insurance

Investment in Class A Commercial Banks:

·        Everest Bank

·        Global IME Bank

·        Kumari Bank

·        Laxmi Sunrise Bank

·        Prabhu Bank

·        Siddhartha Bank

Investment in Insurance Companies:

·        United Ajod Insurance

·        IME Life Insurance

Energy and Hydropower

·        Renewable energy projects:

·        Mountain Energy

·        Sanima Mai Hydropower

·        Vision Energy Power

·        Renew Holding Pvt. Ltd.

 

Hotel and Tourism

Hospitality projects

·        Chandragiri Hills Limited

·        Annapurna Square.

Other Key Sectors

·        Telecom: Nepal Telecom

·        Agriculture: Agrivastu Coldstore Pvt. Ltd.

·        Manufacturing: Kathmandu Steel Pvt. Ltd.

·        Healthcare: Kathmandu International Hospital Investment Portfolio

This strategic diversification reflects Bhat-Bhateni’s vision to enhance economic resilience, foster innovation, and contribute to Nepal’s sustainable development across multiple sectors.

Future Programs

Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket (BBSM) is dedicated to shaping the future of retail and making a lasting impact on Nepal’s economy and communities. Guided by a forward-looking vision, the company aims to continue setting benchmarks for innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability.

Major Upcoming Project: Annapurna Square

·        Location: Durbarmarga, Kathmandu – Nepal's premier high-street destination.

·        Project Cost: Approx. USD 60 million

·        Completion: By 2030

Key Features

Hotel Block:

·        318 luxury hotel rooms (32 sqm each).

·        30 serviced apartments (1BHK & 2BHK).

·        Banquet halls spanning 32,678 sq. ft., a banquet lawn, and premium dining options, including two specialty restaurants and an all day dining area.

Retail and Office Block:

·        Retail Space: 77,289 sq. ft. of branded showrooms and 86,596 sq. ft. for Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket.

·        Office Space: 153,710 sq. ft. of premium offices across multiple floors.

Significance

Annapurna Square, situated on Kathmandu’s most prestigious high street, will integrate luxury hospitality, high-end retail, and modern office spaces. It’s designed to become a landmark, reflecting Bhat Bhateni’s commitment to high-value urban development and economic growth.