Banyan Foods, a tofu company founded by Carol Sue Chiu, is making waves in Houston’s food scene.
From humble beginnings to becoming a staple in the city’s food culture, the company’s growth has been influenced by the support of a small community bank, the rise of food trends, and the invaluable contributions of immigrant labor.
The Beginnings of Banyan Foods
Carol Sue Chiu’s journey into the food industry wasn’t planned. After moving to the United States from Taiwan, she and her husband saw an opportunity in Houston’s growing Asian food scene.
In 1991, they opened their tofu business, Banyan Foods, which quickly became known for its authentic, high-quality tofu, catering to the needs of both the Asian community and other Houstonians interested in plant-based options.
A Community-Focused Bank Helping Banyan Grow
What helped turn Carol’s small business into a thriving company? One of the key elements was the support from Integrity Bank, a local community bank based in Houston, which provided not just financial assistance but also business guidance that helped Carol navigate the early challenges of running a business in a new country.
Integrity Bank’s personalized approach allowed Banyan Foods to invest in larger equipment and expand their production capabilities, meeting the growing demand for tofu.
Integrity Bank’s business model stands in contrast to the rapid automation happening across the financial sector. Small business owners often find it difficult to access decision-makers in larger banks, but at Integrity, clients are greeted by name and offered direct access to top leadership.
The bank takes a hands-on approach to understanding and helping small businesses thrive.
“We didn’t start this bank to sell it in five or ten years,” said one of the founders. “We started it because we believe there’s still a need for relationship-driven banking in Houston.” This belief has been key in supporting businesses like Banyan Foods, allowing them to overcome financial hurdles and grow within a competitive market.
Gary Chiu: The Next Generation
Gary Chiu, Carol’s son, has been involved in the business for many years. As a child, he helped out in the family business, and now as an adult, he’s committed to carrying on the legacy.
“I’ve seen the impact this company has had on our community, and I want to ensure that we continue to provide quality products for future generations,” Gary says.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Banyan Foods’ success also reflects broader demographic shifts in Houston. As the city became more diverse, demand for Asian food products, including tofu, grew.
The rise of plant-based diets and the increasing awareness of the health benefits of tofu have further cemented its place in mainstream food culture.
The success of Banyan Foods highlights how local businesses can thrive with community support, especially when backed by institutions like Integrity Bank, which prioritizes long-term growth and relationship-building over quick profits.
Integrity Bank: A New Kind of Community Bank
Located off I-10 and Bingle, Integrity Bank was founded two years ago by a team of banking veterans who previously sold their last institution to a larger company.
The founders of Integrity Bank were committed to creating a banking institution that would provide a personal touch and foster lasting relationships with Houston’s small business community.
Integrity Bank’s business model stands in stark contrast to the rapid automation and depersonalization happening across the financial sector.
For small business owners like Carol Sue Chiu, getting in touch with a decision-maker at a large bank can be near impossible. But at Integrity, clients are often greeted by name and offered direct access to top leadership, creating an atmosphere of trust and support that’s hard to find at bigger institutions.
Building Houston, One Loan at a Time
Since its opening, Integrity Bank has approved over 75 commercial loans and continues to build a portfolio focused on Houston’s entrepreneurs. For the bank, relationships are more important than just financial products.
“Interest rates come and go,” one of the founders said. “But having someone in your corner who will pick up the phone and make decisions quickly—that’s something you can’t put a number on.”
Integrity Bank has helped many local businesses, like Banyan Foods, by providing quick decision-making and financial guidance that other larger institutions often fail to offer. Their philosophy of keeping capital within Houston has allowed many small businesses to flourish, contributing to the city’s diverse economy.
Keeping Houston Money in Houston
Integrity Bank’s philosophy of keeping capital within the community is rooted in basic economics but with real-world impact. By supporting small businesses like Banyan Foods, Integrity is helping keep Houston’s economy local and vibrant.
What this means
Banyan Foods isn’t just a business; it’s a story of family, community support, and the immigrant spirit that drives so many small businesses in Houston. With the support of Integrity Bank, the Chiu family’s vision continues to thrive.
Integrity Bank’s approach to personalized banking and its commitment to helping businesses grow have played a crucial role in ensuring that Carol Sue Chiu’s legacy—and that of Banyan Foods—remains a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to quality.
