Snacks as we know them used to be just buns, puff puff doughnuts and meat pie. Today we have even more snacks than we thought possible. Samosa, spring rolls, popcorn chin chin, cakes etc are some snacks that are loved by Nigerians. Some of these snacks have even found a way into party menus. For example, it is now common to be served small chops or finger foods which usually comprise samosa, spring rolls and puff puff at parties. The demand for these delicious meals is on the rise. If you have an interest in the food business or catering, then you should consider going into the business.
How to get started.
It is important to get the needed skill. Making pastries requires a good knowledge of all the ingredients and procedures for the best results. If you do not have the skill or the staff that has the skill, then you would not last in business.
To start a pastry business on an average scale, you would need about 500,000 naira. This would cover the cost of rent and the purchase of basic equipment and materials needed.
Getting started
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As previously established you need to acquire the skill or at least hire people who do.
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Map out a business plan. Your business plan should reflect your realities such as the amount available for investment, your competitors, your strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.
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Begin to source for a good location. You will need a place with good foot and vehicular traffic as you need to be seen by as many people as possible daily.
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Purchase all the needed equipment. You will need pots, pans, a mixer, an oven and a gas cooker among other things. You also need to make provisions for show glasses. Depending on your location and how much money you have, you can arrange a sit-out for your customers. Or you can arrange to have a food truck and carry out all operations from there.
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Pick a business name and proceed to get registered. You should also get all licenses and permits from relevant authorities. Find excellent tips on coming up with a business name. https://smartsmssolutions.com/blog/118-sms-marketing/small-business/1736-tips-and-tools-for-great-business-names
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Develop an online presence. This would help market your brand. Apart from having your business up on social media, you can also create a website where people can place orders for their choice of pastries and have them delivered to them.
Marketing strategy
One thing that would attract customers to your outlet is your setup. So make your store as attractive and inviting as you possibly can.
You should also include drinks such as freshly squeezed fruit juices, smoothies, milkshakes, coffee, tea, yoghurts and regular soft drinks so that you are a one-stop shop. If you cannot afford to venture into the drink business or if you are sceptical about combining it with your newly established business you should look out for a partner who is willing to go into this business at the same spot where you are.
Something else you can do to attract customers is to make good use of social media. You should take pictures of your work and upload them on social media along with customer reviews or feedback that you get. This would encourage people to patronize you even more. Here's detail on how you can promote your business online. https://smartsmssolutions.com/blog/83-updates/1780-how-to-promote-your-business-online
The pastry business requires attention to detail. It would be detrimental for you to ignore or skip any of the points measured above. Going into this line of business can be hard work but with careful planning, commitment to quality and dedication, you can build a successful and rewarding business.
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