Welcome to the second article in our market feature series.

This week, we will get to know the story behind Punjaban, the family-run business and traders at CJ's Events Warwickshire markets, bringing authentic Punjaban flavours to Warwickshire.

And if you missed the first article in our series, don't forget to check it out here.

"You think you know what a samosa tastes like, but wait until you've tried ours."

From humble beginnings to market and online trading

On a Saturday morning, come rain or shine, you'll find Punjaban, trading at Warwick markets, or the weekly Friday Leamington market, as of more recent.

Punjaban is a family-run business with roots that trace back more than a decade.

"My mum started making her own curry sauces, and my brother actually sold them at uni for beer money," said Ria, who now runs the Warwickshire side of the business.

Speaking to Nub News, Ria explained she joined the business after turning down a graduate job at IBM.

Despite starting with takings of around £25 a week and selling sauces displayed on "a little black tablecloth in shopping centres," the family's initial modest set-up didn't hold them back.

"We'd make everything at home, including all of the sauces, and we'd sell out within about two hours - that's when we knew we were onto something good."

From humble beginnings, the family then invested in a small factory and began producing on a larger scale. 

Punjaban is a family-run business with roots that trace back more than a decade (image via Punjaban)

Today, Punjaban has grown into a well-loved brand, known for its uncompromising authenticity. 

"We don't add sugar, cream, gluten, nuts, or dairy. 

"Everything's natural and inspired by my mum's cooking. 

"'Our slogan is 'don't compromise on authenticity' and we mean that not just in our food, but in everything we do, from branding to customer service" said Ria. 

Markets and festivals have become a cornerstone of the business, which Punjaban has been doing for around five to six years.

The company covers Warwickshire, turning up every Saturday without fail at Warwick Market, as well as food festivals across the region. 

Meanwhile, her brother and mum travel the country, bringing Punjaban's flavours to events nationwide. 

When asked what it was like working so closely with family, Ria laughed and said, "It can be chaotic, but we're all passionate about what we do. 

"That keeps us going."

One of Punjaban's most popular products is its veggie samosas, which win the hearts of customers each time. 

Markets and festivals have become a cornerstone of the business, which Punjaban has been doing for around five to six years (image supplied)

Other products include homemade sauces, which can be bought in jars at the markets or ordered online, the most popular of which are the Butter Chicken, Tikka Masala and for spice lovers, the Naga curry.

Looking ahead, Punjaban is looking to launch two new sauces, a Balti sauce and a Madras.

Behind the brand

Punjaban has set its standards high as an Indian trader, not only in its products, but in its design and vibrant branding, which has even been noticed by its fellow traders who ask where they too can get such bold designs from

As Ria expressed: "We've always set the bar high, not just with flavour, but with presentation. 

"People often ask which marketing agency do you use, but the answer is we don't, it is all us, we set the latest trends.

"But at the heart of it all remains family, community, and quality.

"We're a local brand, everything's handmade, and customer service is number one," said Ria.

Whether individuals are buying a single samosa or ordering in bulk for a party, customer experience is at the heart of Punjaban. 

Where to find Punjaban

If you stop by Warwick Market this weekend, you'll find Ria and staff serving with a smile, proof that passion, persistence, and a love of good food can turn a family recipe into something much bigger.

You can find Punjaban every Friday at Leamington market and every Saturday at Warwick Market, and on social media on Instagram and Facebook.

This weekend, Punjaban will also be featuring at Leamington Food Festival.

Punjaban is currently also looking for energetic, customer-focused staff to join their team at festivals and events. If you're interested, get in touch via their website.

Punjaban has set its standards high as an Indian trader, not only in its products, but in its design and vibrant branding (image via Punjaban)