One of the businesses to veer into is the food and catering services, just like the restauranteurs are making their money.
Those in the food catering service for events are thriving in this sector as it is fast becoming a profit-making avenue. Catering services for events and parties in Nigeria offers an excellent business opportunity that should not be jettisoned.
From the findings gathered, one need to take a meticulous approach before venturing into the catering and event services business as practitioners say, so many factors need to be considered.
Speaking with an experienced caterer, Ruth Akolade, CEO of Ebony Kitchen Catering Services, disclosed that, for anyone who’s interested in this catering business should endeavour to conduct market research to identify the demand and competition for catering services in their target area and also Identify the types of events and parties that are popular, the target market segment, and their specific needs and preferences.
“In operating any business in Nigeria or abroad, you must develop a comprehensive business that outlines your target market services offered, pricing strategy, marketing plan, operational details, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your business and help you secure financing if needed,” she says.
However, she points out that obtaining all necessary business registration for the catering business with the appropriate agencies and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits which may include obtaining food handling permits, health and safety certifications, and business registration.
She states further that determining the range of services that will be offered should be spelled out. Such as menu planning, food preparation, food delivery, setup and decoration, and cleanup services. Consider specializing in certain types of cuisine or dietary preferences to differentiate your business.
The Ceo, Ebony Kitchen, stresses that, Identifying the type of event is also important. “ be it corporate or private party. you need to source for Ingredients for the meal and supplies because you should be able to deliver top notch service that will create a lasting impression for your clients”.
Hence, sourcing fresh and high-quality ingredients to provide excellent food and beverage options for your clients is key.
She advises that this type of service requires being sociable therefore, establishing relationships with reliable suppliers for quality ingredients, beverages is important.
She states that, be it a buffet style of catering or a sitting down type, the caterer should be able to deliver all that the clients desires.
Therefore, the caters should have a menu list develop to cater to the diverse need of the guests based on their preferences or dietary requirements of guest or market.
Profitability
The business, according to her, can generate millions of naira monthly depending on the number of events within that period.
