Bissada Makarious founded a textile business in a small village in Nagada, Egypt. Bissada Makarious and Bros. was formed 25 years later when his brothers Selwanis and Tadros joined to form a partnership. In 1924, Bissada Makarious separated from his brothers and formed Bissada Makarious and Son in Sudan with his son Giryagos. Mr. Bissada had confidence in his son and granted the 20 year old the responsibility of running the Sudan branch. Mr. Makarious's second son, Gaddis, joined the family business in 1927. After years of dedication and hard work, Bissada Makarious passed away in 1939, leaving his son Giryagos to take over the family business. Despite Mr. Makarious's absence, business continued to boom. A year later, Gaddis Bissada opened Gaddis Bissada and Partners in Cairo. In 1941 the company became a full blown family affair when Izzat Bissada, the family's youngest brother, became a partner in the Sudanese part of the business.

Though he was born in Egypt, Giryagos Bissada was Ethiopian at heart. He loved the country and was a pioneer in its agricultural trade development. By 1955 Giryagos Bissada Import and Export had become one of the most active trading houses in East Africa and established an excellent international reputation importing and exporting a very broad range of agricultural commodities. Bissma soon became a multinational family enterprise. Based in Ethopia, Giryagos lead operations in Ethiopia while his brother Gaddis oversaw business in Egypt, and brother Izzat managed business in Sudan. After a long illness, Mr. Giryagos Bissada passed away in 1987 at the age of 83. The legacy that the great Giryagos Bissada left behind remains to be seen through the success of his beloved company. His life was characterized by integrity, courage, and devotion to both his family and career. Upon his passing, his son, Magdi Bissada has taken the reins from his dearly loved father and the company has continued to flourish under his guidance.