Twins celebrates 50 years in pharmaceutical industry
Twins Manufacturing Chemists, one of Guyana’s leading pharmaceutical and household names, is celebrating 50 years in the drug manufacturing business.
According to a statement from the company, Twins Manufacturing Chemists was started by Shaheed Mohamed Ferouz, a pharmaceutical chemist and Zabeeda Ferouz, who became his wife and business partner. Ferouz, who was studying in London, on his return to Guyana rejoined his father in the family drug store, Twins Pharmacy, which was regarded as one of the leading pharmacies in its time. In his free time he, Ferouz, would experiment with compounding and mixing of formulas. Some of the first products he made were Hygenol disinfectants, Flavourmate Essences, Tussadryl Cold & Cough Syrups etc. Ferouz bought a carrier bike and rode from store to store marketing his products. With positive feedback and requests for more of his products, Ferouz realized that this was his calling.
In 1971 Ferouz leased a piece of land in
Industrial Estate, Ruimveldt, which he used to start his business and as the years went by and the business expanded the surrounding lands were also acquired. Today, Twins Manufacturing Chemists’ product line ranges from patent medicines, cosmetics, household products and recently sanitization products to combat the Corona Virus amongst others. The company is proud to claim that almost 100 products are manufactured locally.
According to Saudia Ferouz in the statement, “This is an achievement in itself. It’s a testament to our commitment to the development of this beautiful country, Guyana.” She emphasized that Quality, Creativity and Excellence are the main ingredients in their products.
On a more personal note, Saudia recognized Mr. & Mrs. Ferouz for their hard work and tirelessness in maintaining standards. Citing their commitment to the business as exemplary, Saudia, who joined the company 31 years ago as a young graduate from the University of Guyana, said that, “Everything I know in the business is what Mr. Ferouz taught me. He had the confidence in me and I will always appreciate that. I would hope that the Government of Guyana recognizes the magnitude of the work that this son of the soil has put into Guyana and reward him with a National Award in the near future.”
Ferouz’s three sons, twins Rafeek and Shafeek, and Shareef, all qualified pharmacists, are all working to help grow the family business. A daughter, Faranaz, also a pharmacist however resides overseas with her family. One year ago Sayyid, a chemical engineer and 3rd generation son of Shafeek joined the operation as a Quality Control Analyst. The senior Ferouz is hoping that the younger generation will move the factory towards modernization and a state-of-the-art facility.
In celebration of the anniversary, Twins Manufacturing Chemists has donated to 15 charities and has held outreaches and other forms of medical assistance to say “Thank You.”