Bestway Group Celebrates 50th Anniversary and Honors Founder Sir Anwar Pervez

In a spectacular gala held at the Royal Albert Hall, Bestway Group commemorated its 50th anniversary and celebrated its founder, Sir Anwar Pervez OBE. The event gathered 800 guests to acknowledge Sir Anwar’s contributions.

Hosted by Dermot O’Leary, the evening honored Sir Anwar as an inspirational figure in Britain. The program featured performances and speeches that highlighted his journey from humble beginnings in Gujjar Khan to establishing a global business with a workforce exceeding 50,000, including operations in his native Pakistan.

The Royal Albert Hall was transformed for the occasion, hosting dignitaries, parliamentarians, and associates of the Bestway family who gathered to celebrate the man behind a prominent and socially conscious business group in the UK.

Lord Zameer Choudrey CBE SI (Pk), Chairman of Bestway Group and nephew of Sir Anwar, remarked in his opening address, “His story embodies determination, vision, and purpose. Sir Anwar’s journey, from a small village in Pakistan to founding Bestway in 1976, showcases not only commercial success but also social improvement, community engagement, and charitable efforts. We are honored to recognize him and the 50 years of influence he has fostered.”

The evening included a performance by Katherine Jenkins OBE and a musical set by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, who traveled from Pakistan for the event. Also featured were the string quartet Escala, accompanied by the Novello Orchestra, led by David Mahoney, and a closing performance by classical fusion artist, Okiem.

Former prime minister Lord David Cameron commended Sir Anwar’s principles of enterprise, generosity, and service, describing him as “a true British success story with influence spanning continents and generations.”

Lord Cameron emphasized Sir Anwar’s dedication to the community and the principles that helped rebuild the nation, noting that a commitment to service has been key to his achievements. He highlighted the family values, emphasizing how Sir Anwar, along with his nephew Zameer, and close friend Younus Sheikh, established the archetype of a family-run enterprise built on trust, respect, and shared objectives.

Lord Choudrey stated, “Sir Anwar’s life represents the fulfillment of an immigrant’s aspirations. After arriving in Britain in 1956, he held various positions in Bradford and London before launching his first retail outlet in 1963. He then established Bestway thirteen years later, laying the foundation for a diversified multinational group encompassing food, pharmaceuticals, cement, and banking.”

“Today, the Group stands as one of the UK’s foremost family-owned businesses, recognized for its commitment to responsible business practices and philanthropy, guided by Sir Anwar’s principles of diligence, integrity, resilience, and community contribution.”

“His dedication to giving back is equally significant. Established in 1987, the Bestway Foundation has contributed over £50 million to various causes in the UK and internationally, focusing on education, health, and social mobility, which are all matters of great importance to Sir Anwar.”

Lord Choudrey concluded, “Tonight is not just about looking back but also about looking forward. Bestway’s narrative is ongoing, shaped by the legacy of a man who pursued ambitions beyond his circumstances.”