Specialising in Chinese pancakes and bao buns, Ming Foods produces millions of traditional delicacies each week, serving customers across the UK, Europe, and beyond. Ming Foods values its deep connection to the Sevenoaks district and the local community supporting its growth.
Sam Duong, the co-founder of Ming Foods, recalls how the company was looking for a new base of operations after outgrowing its previous facility in Erith. In 2012, Sam discovered a 25,000-square-foot factory in Swanley, ideally located for their business needs. “We were drawn to Swanley because of its strategic location near London and Dover,” Sam says. “It was a bit big for us, to be honest. We were at that time looking for about 10,000 square feet of space, and this one was 25,000,” but they took the leap anyway, driven by the factory’s strategic location and ready-to-use setup.
Swanley’s position within the Sevenoaks district has been a significant asset for Ming Foods. While Ming Foods is a global business, exporting to destinations as far East as Australia and as far West as the USA, Sam is quick to emphasise the benefits of operating within the Sevenoaks district,
“Being based in Sevenoaks has provided us with excellent growth opportunities,” he explains. “The support from Sevenoaks District Council has been invaluable, whether it’s signposting additional funding or helping us overcome business challenges. We feel fortunate to be part of this community.”
Drawing on his cultural heritage, Sam highlighted the importance of the area’s energy which has influenced both the business and his personal life. “There’s something about the area’s energetics. The flow of lifeforce moving through it, and it presents wonderful opportunities,” he says, referring to the importance of feng shui.
Although Sam commutes from South London, he appreciates the quality of life that the Sevenoaks district offers. “I love the picturesque charm of places like Eynsford, and Birchwood Golf Club is just around the corner from us,” he shares. “It’s great to have such beautiful places nearby to relax and unwind.” “We’re proud to be part of the Sevenoaks district” “It’s the perfect base for our business and a fantastic place to live and work.”
