Sohrab began in 1952 with a core of traders in Lahore, following a foreign exchange crisis which severely restricted imports in Pakistan. The traders saw an opportunity to domestically produce and sell bicycles, and consequently founded Sohrab on 8 September 1953 under Section 9 of the Co-operative Societies Act II of 1912. It initially had 22 members and produced 5 bicycles a day.[2]
Structure
Sohrab was setup keeping its workers in mind. All controlling powers of the company laid with the general body, who were elected into power every 3 years. Since its inception, elections were held on a regular basis. Sohrab provided subsidized workers canteen and company hospital. It also paid for five of its workers to attend the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca each year.[2]
Products
Sohrab initially manufactured a single-speed roadster bicycle. This had a lugged steel frame and rod-brakes. More modern MTB and BMX style bicycles were added to the range in the 1990s.[4] Sohrab also diversified into producing cargo-tricycles, gymnasium equipment, push-chairs and wheelchairs.[2] In 1994, Sohrab entered the motorcycle market with the JS70. A larger version of this was later used as the basis for an auto-rickshaw.[4]
Sohrab's primary market was in mainly remote and rural population areas of Pakistan.[1][5] It also exported cycles to Afghanistan and Bangladesh and wheelchairs to Madagascar through a French rotary club.[6]
