From Manufacturing to Social Development: Assessing the Role of SM Foods in Education, Employment, and Community Support in Multan

Abstract

In developing countries, businesses often help with the social and economic challenges that cannot be dealt with by the state. This study examines SM Foods, a leading food manufacturing company based in Multan, Pakistan. It examines SM Foods' contributions to the economy and development from the perspectives of corporate social responsibility and the Millennium Development Goals. Data were collected using a qualitative case study approach, through in-depth interviews with the founder, selected employees, university students, interns, and graduates who transitioned to the labor market, as well as direct field observations along with documentary evidence. Based on studies, SM Foods has been found to contribute significantly towards education, employment generation, women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, and industry–academia collaboration. The company presents a development-oriented corporate model by focusing on women’s employment, internship program, participation in job fairs, payment of taxes, and eco-friendly production. Moreover, it has formal collaborations with universities through memoranda of understanding for skill development and enhancement of employability. According to this research paper, manufacturing firms based locally can serve as human development partners by aligning business objectives with social goals. The study shows that indigenous enterprises can deliver national and global development outcomes through sustained and embedded social engagement. This makes an important contribution to CSR and development studies.