[3][4] Ismail Industries' history goes back to a confectionery factory founded by Haji Ahmad Chandia in Sukkur during the 1960s.

[5] Later, Chandia founded another confectionery business with his four sons called Union Biscuit Private Limited in Karachi.

[5] The business was successful, but began to decline with the death of the heir apparent, Ismail.

[5] Following his death, the family reestablished a company in his name called Ismail Industries Limited in 1988.

[5] Miftah Ismail, former Finance Minister of Pakistan, joined his family business in 1994 after completing his education in the U.S.[5] In 1990, Ismail Industries established its first subsidiary, Candyland, which introduced soft jellies such as Chilli Milli in Pakistan.