Following a first visit to a sugar mill in India, Mr. Kalpesh Patel was struck by the transformative potential of agricultural value addition. He envisioned creating multiple sustainable businesses from a single farm-produced resource — a vision that would define the next two and a half decades.

Established (formerly JBL), First Choice Breweries became one of Zambia's finest spirits producers. Flagship brands — First Choice Whiskey, Black Panther Rum, Lion Gin, and Big Boss Spirit — are celebrated nationwide for quality and craftsmanship.

Surya Biofuels was established, becoming Zambia's largest producer of food- and fuel-grade ethanol. This was the realisation of the original vision — turning cassava and sugarcane into sustainable energy, serving both domestic and global markets.

With a commitment to a Zero Waste philosophy, Jash Packaging was founded to produce aluminium lids and corrugated box boards — closing the loop on the group's manufacturing chain and reducing industrial waste at source.

Surya Energy became the only company in Zambia producing Green Fuel. Engaged in the procurement, marketing, and distribution of petroleum products, it represents Mr. Patel's bold bet on a cleaner energy future for the continent.

Launched to streamline Zambia's import-export operations, First Choice Logistics quickly scaled to a fleet of 150+ vehicles, managing over 100 export containers monthly and connecting businesses across borders with precision and reliability.

The Surya Group now spans biofuels, energy, agriculture, beverages, logistics, construction, packaging, and glass manufacturing. What began as one man's insight has become a diversified industrial ecosystem — a testament to 25 years of purposeful, patient, and courageous vision.