About Island Imports
Our history, and the family behind it.
A family trade that began overseas and found its home supplying London's communities the ingredients they grew up with.
Our story
From the love of a father to his children.
From a desire to share the joys of the foods he grew up with in Sri Lanka, my father, Ashraff, founded a fruit and vegetable import business in Germany in 2001. Driven by his passion for bringing the flavours of his homeland to others, he moved the business to the UK in 2007, where it continued to flourish. For years, Island Imports thrived as a family-run business, with my father and I working together to expand our reach and range.
We imported tropical fruits, vegetables and groceries from countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and many more, bringing London's communities the products of our culture and heritage that were otherwise nearly impossible to find in the UK.
After the challenges of COVID-19, my father decided to step back. Determined to continue what he started, I took the reins and have carried on the legacy of Island Imports.
Our mission
Keep heritage grocery accessible, without lowering the bar.
To bring heritage fruit and vegetables from around the world to you. With trusted partners across the globe, we bring high-quality produce to the UK and deliver it to your nearest local store.
Over the years we built a strong brand and close customer relationships, through consistent, reliable delivery, real quality checks, and simple, timely support. We hold that standard as we grow, without compromising on the food, or forgetting who we are and how we started.
Today
Still running on dependable delivery and close supplier relationships.
We supply over 25 customers weekly with the products we import, alongside 10 more seasonal customers. We currently import from 7 countries and are in contact with suppliers in 6 more, steadily expanding our range and relationships.
Fresh fruit and vegetables come in by air freight; grocery and shelf-stable lines by sea. We collect air-freight goods straight from the airport and deliver direct to our customers, convenience-store owners across London and nearby areas.
Looking for a reliable supplier?
Tell us what your shop or kitchen needs, we'll take it from there.