Falfruits envisions new venture in fruit industry

Kathmandu, June 11

What began with just Rs. 1,200 and a bicycle 24 years ago has now grown into a thriving entrepreneurial journey.

Agni Kandel, Director of Falfruits Pvt. Ltd., is leading a new startup venture in Nepal’s fruit industry, turning a modest beginning into a fast-growing business that is empowering farmers, fruit vendors, and families across the Kathmandu Valley.

A team of traders and chartered accountants have joined him to launch the first outlet of fruits and juice at the Soaltee Mode in Kathmandu and plan to expand it across the country.

With the vision of mobilising small capital for big change, Kandel has built a strong community of fruit vendors, creating a ripple effect of economic benefit for dozens of families. "Our aim is not just profit but promoting farmers and building an ecosystem around agricultural entrepreneurship," he said.

A core aspect of Falfruits’ model is training farmers in fruit grading and packaging, helping them meet market standards and counter negative perceptions about Nepali produce. “Every time Nepali fruits reach the market, rumours fly about pesticides and poor quality. We are working to change that with transparency and training,” he explained.

These initiatives are the future plans of the company.

In a move that blends grassroots effort with corporate discipline, Falfruits is receiving crucial support from Tika Karki, a Chartered Accountant. “We’re creating a fusion — a business with a corporate structure grounded in family affiliation and community trust,” Karki added. From inventory management to expansion planning, the partnership aims to scale the business without losing its human touch.

Falfruits is set to launch an ‘outlet concept’ across the country, including fruit cafes that combine health, convenience, and community. Each outlet, with an investment of Rs. 1 million, is expected to create at least five jobs.

The company aims to create 50 outlets in the next five years.

Falfruits also plans to run e-commerce venture to supply fruits and processed products.

It is also planning to collaborate with nutritionists and doctors to promote healthy eating habits and provide guidance to customers.

As the company grows, Kandel remains focused on his original goal to uplift Nepali farmers and prove that even the smallest seed of capital can grow into something extraordinary.

Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 12 June 2025.