Top 10 Muslim-Owned Companies in the UK

The United Kingdom has long been a hub for diverse entrepreneurial talent, and the Muslim community has played a pivotal role in enriching its business fabric. From finance and food to retail and technology, Muslim-owned enterprises are a dynamic force, contributing immensely to the UK’s economic growth, job creation, and innovative spirit.

These businesses reflect a powerful blend of traditional values and modern commercial acumen, often demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability in a competitive market. They are not just about profit; many are deeply embedded in their communities, championing ethical practices and social responsibility.

Ready to explore some of the most influential Muslim-owned businesses contributing to the prosperity of the UK? Let’s take a closer look!

Related: Top 10 Muslim-Owned Companies in the World

1. Bestway Group (Founded by Sir Anwar Pervez)

When you think of the UK’s wholesale and retail sector, Bestway Group is an undeniable giant. Founded by the visionary Sir Anwar Pervez in 1976 with a single convenience store, Bestway has grown into the UK’s second-largest independent wholesaler and a diversified conglomerate. They operate a vast network of cash & carry warehouses and are a major player in the pharmacy sector (Well Pharmacy) and banking (United Bank Limited in Pakistan).

• What they do: Wholesale food distribution, retail (convenience stores), pharmacies, cement manufacturing, and banking.
• Why they matter: Bestway Group is a massive employer in the UK, sustaining thousands of jobs across its diverse operations. Sir Anwar Pervez’s journey from humble beginnings to building an empire is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit, and the group’s philanthropic endeavors are also highly significant.

2. Euro Garages (EG Group) (Founded by Zuber & Mohsin Issa)

The brothers Zuber and Mohsin Issa transformed the petrol station and convenience store landscape in the UK and beyond with Euro Garages (EG Group). Starting with a single petrol station in Bury, Lancashire, in 2001, they rapidly expanded, acquiring numerous sites and integrating popular food brands like Starbucks, KFC, and Subway into their forecourt offerings.

• What they do: Operate petrol station forecourts, convenience stores, and fast-food outlets, globally.
• Why they matter: EG Group has revolutionized the roadside retail experience, creating thousands of jobs and driving innovation in convenience and food service integration. Their rapid global expansion also showcases significant British entrepreneurial success on an international stage.

3. Al Rayan Bank (Formerly Islamic Bank of Britain)

While not founded by an individual in the same way, Al Rayan Bank (formerly the Islamic Bank of Britain) is a hugely significant institution as the UK’s first wholly Sharia-compliant retail bank. It was established to provide banking services that adhere to Islamic principles, offering ethical financial products to both Muslim and non-Muslim customers.

• What they do: Offer a full range of retail banking services, including savings accounts, home finance, and business banking, all structured to be Sharia-compliant (e.g., no interest, ethical investments).
• Why they matter: Al Rayan Bank has pioneered ethical banking in the UK, offering an alternative for those seeking financial services aligned with Islamic values. It has grown to be a significant player in the ethical finance sector, serving a diverse customer base and demonstrating the viability of interest-free banking.

4. Noon Products (Founded by Sir Gulam Noon)

The late Sir Gulam Noon was a true titan of the British food industry, earning the moniker “Curry King.” He founded Noon Products in 1989, specializing in producing high-quality Indian and ethnic ready meals for supermarkets. His company became a dominant supplier to major chains like Tesco, transforming the ready-meal market. In 2005, the company was acquired by Kerry Group.

• What they do: Manufacture Indian and ethnic ready meals for supermarkets and food service.
• Why they matter: Sir Gulam Noon’s entrepreneurial journey was iconic. He not only built a highly successful business but also significantly contributed to making ethnic cuisine mainstream in the UK, creating jobs and playing a key role in the convenience food sector.

5. Penny Appeal (Founded by Adeem Younis)

While a charity, Penny Appeal is run with remarkable entrepreneurial zeal and has grown into a major force in the UK’s charity sector. Founded by Adeem Younis, it’s known for its innovative fundraising approaches and widespread humanitarian and development projects around the world. Its success is built on transparent operations and engaging public campaigns.

• What they do: International relief and development projects, including clean water, food aid, orphan care, and emergency response.
• Why they matter: Penny Appeal demonstrates how entrepreneurial drive can be harnessed for immense social good. It has raised millions of pounds for charitable causes, embodying the spirit of philanthropy and community responsibility within the Muslim community.

6.  Muzmatch:

An app where single Muslims meet, founded by CEO Shahzad Younas. The platform targets the world’s 400 million single Muslims, offering focused tools and solutions. In just two years, Muzmatch has recruited more than 220,000 members worldwide and boasts over 6,000 successful matches, with engagements and weddings taking place daily.

7. Shazan Foods (Founded by the Hasham family)

Shazan Foods is a prominent Halal food company in the UK, founded by the Hasham family. They have played a crucial role in providing high-quality, ethically produced Halal meat and poultry products to the British market, serving both retail and food service sectors.

• What they do: Produce and supply a wide range of Halal meat and poultry products.
• Why they matter: Shazan Foods has been instrumental in making Halal food more accessible and trusted for Muslim consumers in the UK, while also adhering to high welfare and quality standards. Their success reflects the growing demand for diverse food options.

8. The Halal Food Authority (HFA)

The Halal Food Authority (HFA) is a leading independent organization for the certification of Halal food and products in the UK. While not a conventional “company” in terms of manufacturing, its role is vital for businesses and consumers. It was established by Muslim scholars and professionals to ensure that food products meet strict Islamic dietary laws.

• What they do: Certify food and non-food products as Halal, provide auditing services, and educate consumers and businesses.
• Why they matter: HFA’s rigorous certification process provides assurance and trust for Muslim consumers and opens up market opportunities for businesses aiming to cater to the Halal market. Their work underpins a significant part of the UK’s food industry.

9. Islamic Relief Worldwide (Founded by Dr. Hany El-Banna)

Similar to Penny Appeal, Islamic Relief Worldwide is a globally recognized charity founded by Dr. Hany El-Banna in the UK. It has grown into one of the largest and most respected Muslim charities globally, providing humanitarian aid and development assistance in over 40 countries. Its roots are firmly in the UK.

• What they do: Deliver humanitarian aid, emergency relief, and long-term development programs across the world.
• Why they matter: Islamic Relief showcases the immense philanthropic drive originating from the UK’s Muslim community, contributing significantly to global welfare and demonstrating a strong commitment to social justice on an international scale.

10.  HalalEat:

A British start-up that aims to bring halal food to the masses. It is the UK’s first halal food delivery portal, offering a diverse range of takeaway choices from curry to Caribbean, Chinese, Italian, and more. Founded by Abul Rob, who previously worked for Just Eat and Hungry House, HalalEat was launched in November 2015.

The Dynamic Contribution of Muslim Businesses to the UK

The success of these Muslim-owned companies in the UK is a powerful testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and adaptability within the community. They embody several key contributions:

• Economic Growth & Job Creation: These businesses are major employers, offering diverse opportunities across various sectors, from retail and logistics to finance and food production.
• Innovation & Market Diversification: They introduce new business models (like Sharia-compliant finance), expand product offerings (e.g., Halal food), and drive innovation in convenience and service.
• Global Reach: Many of these companies have not only succeeded in the UK but have also expanded internationally, showcasing British enterprise on a global scale.
• Community & Social Impact: Beyond financial success, many leaders and companies are deeply involved in philanthropy and community development, reflecting a strong sense of social responsibility.

The UK’s business landscape is undeniably richer and more dynamic because of the significant contributions of Muslim entrepreneurs. Their ongoing success continues to shape the nation’s economy, foster diversity, and demonstrate the power of enterprise for collective good.