In this post I will share with you how to start a fresh juice business in Kenya
If you are looking for a lucrative business idea in Kenya, then blending and selling of fresh juice is one of them. This is because the demand is more than supply meaning the market has not been saturated. Its also advantageous because of the minimal capital requirements and availability of fruits. In this article you get to learn the details of starting a fresh juice business.
Generally, there’s a growing trend of people preferring freshly blended juice to juice that has additional flavors and preservatives. However, as potential business person you will need to do an intensive market research on your target market before deciding your niche.
Depending on your findings; you can choose to focus on juice smoothies, organic juices, energy juices or even wholesale bottled juices. While researching on the market, you will take into consideration the fruits that people love, where you can find them and the blending equipment required.
Equipment costs and working capital for a fresh juice business in Kenya
Equipment costs and working capital will determine the amount of money you need. For instance, the business needs a commercial blender (Ksh 7,500), juicer (Ksh 5,000), fridge (Ksh17, 000), vegetable peeler (Ksh 3000) and juice dispenser (Ksh 10,000) as the main equipment. However, if you have limited capital and you can afford a commercial blender and juicer, you’re good to go. Other cost requirements entail obtaining business permit at Ksh 8000, Rent at an average rate of Ksh 10,000 and furniture at an approximate figure of Ksh 5000. In addition to the single business permit, make sure you apply for the food hygiene license which can cost up to Ksh 2000 on the higher side to avoid fines.
Once you’ve met the legal requirements and obtained equipment, its important that you locate reliable suppliers. You may grow your own fruits or buy. If you choose to buy, do so in bulk and purchase your supplies locally in wholesale so as to minimize on transportation costs.
Its also advisable to visit growers’ associations around you to help you locate potential suppliers. The aim is to have a variety of fruits in adequate supply. Another tip is to buy unripe fruits which are way cheaper and minimizes the chances of going bad.
The following are some fruits you can use for blending juices.
- Bananas
- Avocado
- Passion fruits
- Mangoes
- Thorn melon
- Pineapple
- Watermelon
- Pawpaw
- Oranges
- Apples
Choosing a location for your fresh juice business in Kenya
Another important aspect of a fruit juice business is the location. A strategic place for the business will mean high sales turnover which translates to maximization of profits. For this particular business, consider having it near institutions like schools, hospitals, shopping malls, banks and churches. A fruit juice shop outside offices, in flea markets, and bus stops is likely to do well due to the traffic of people walking by foot.
Marketing a fresh juice business in Kenya
Packaging and marketing are what makes your business unique. Packaging depends on orders; if you’re selling to direct consumers then disposable cups with lids will do but for large wholesale orders, use jerrycans. Marketing is very essential as it makes the consumers aware of your product. Posters and business cards are the best bet but you could also hold a health fitness day and promote your business.
Is fruit juice business profitable in Kenya?
Yes. A fruit juice is a profitable venture in Kenya when you carefully choose a good business location that has a potential to get you many customers. Starting a juice business in Kenya is one of the ways to be self-employed or to create employment opportunities for others. However, one must aggressively market the business during the initial days. To be successful in the fresh fruit juice business should ensure high levels of cleanliness and offering the best customer service.
Summary
In conclusion, it’s possible to start a fruit juice business and succeed in Kenya since it only requires blending skills and capital of about Ksh 30,000. To maintain and grow the customer base, maintain cleanliness.