In 2008, Jian Loh and Brian Ooi left their home in Malaysia to pursue higher education in Australia. Little did they know that their move would not only shape their academic careers but also ignite their passion for Asian cooking. Fast forward to 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jian and Brian found solace and joy in experimenting with Asian recipes in their kitchen. However, their culinary adventures were overshadowed by a growing concern: the excessive plastic packaging prevalent in Asian grocery stores.
Driven by their love for cooking and a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, the duo decided to take matters into their own hands. In 2021, they launched Naked Asian Grocer from the comfort of their apartment in Carnegie. With just 10 products initially, they set out to offer an alternative: Asian ingredients free from single-use plastic packaging, allowing customers to purchase only what they need to minimize food waste. Their endeavor quickly gained momentum, thanks to the support of family and friends who were eager to embrace their eco-friendly approach to grocery shopping. As word spread, Jian and Brian found themselves outgrowing their apartment, prompting a move to a larger space in Mulgrave, and eventually to Dandenong South.
Today, Naked Asian Grocer boasts a diverse range of over 130 products, carefully sourced and rigorously tested to ensure the highest quality. But their journey doesn't stop there. Fueled by a desire to make a greater impact, Jian and Brian are constantly seeking ways to innovate and expand their business. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond their product offerings. By prioritizing local suppliers and offsetting carbon emissions from global sourcing, Naked Asian Grocer is not only redefining Asian grocery shopping but also setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in the industry.
But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of their story is their unwavering dedication to their customers. Actively seeking feedback and engaging with their community, Jian and Brian are not just running a business—they're building a movement towards sustainable living, one plastic-free ingredient at a time.
As they look to the future, with aspirations of expanding into independent shops or even opening their own store, one thing is clear: Naked Asian Grocer is more than just a business—it's a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a shared vision for a better world.
For the latest updates, recipes, and more, visit nakedasiangrocer or follow them on social media. Join the journey towards sustainable Asian cooking with Naked Asian Grocer.
