How to Start Chips Business in Kenya

They say if you want to make everyone happy, sell ice cream. In Kenya, sell chips and everyone will love you. Chips is Kenya’s most loved fast food. It’s a business you are most likely to make profits if you venture into.

This article will take you through some of the must-haves to start the chips business.

 Location
To thrive in this business, your location should be easily accessible and should be a place that attracts a large number of people.
You might consider streets near main roads/bus stations, schools, clubs, and bars, or highly populated estates.

Besides that, your location should be neat and your outlet well organized. Decorate your outlet, to attract more customers, also be innovative on ways to attract customers.

Equipment and supplies
To get into this business you will require to have essential equipment including; deep fryer, potato peeler, potato cutter, frying spoon, firewood/coal/ gas.

You also need a reliable supplier for your potatoes, tomatoes, onions, source of the fire. It is necessary to find a trustworthy wholesaler to reduce your input cost.

Further, you have to consider storage for your products. It’s important to note that the type and size of equipment purchased depends on the size of the outlet and capital available.

For a street seller, you will only need a jiko, frying pan, frying spoon, charcoal and some plates.
Other necessary ingredients include; salt, packaging bags, frying oil, toothpicks, plates and forks, ketchup and chilies.

Capital.
Like any other business, capital is the key to getting started. You require it to get your business permits and licenses as well as setting up the business. For the chips business, you require a minimum of 5000ksh to a maximum of 200,000ksh, depending on the size of the outlet and equipment you purchase.

The returns however are high(30-40%) and the business has great potential to grow organically. The demand is always on the higher side and it never goes down. Once you have fully taken care of the above 3 points, then you are good to start.

To ensure your business thrives and stands out, some other factors to consider includes;
Excellent customer service-chips business has attracted more people into it. For you to stand out you and your employees must strive to offer the best customer service to your clients.

Hygiene

Ensure you have a constant supply of clean water. Kenyans are very cautious of what they consume as well the environment, especially now with the pandemic. Have clean drinking water, water to do your dishes, and clean your outlet.

Hygiene and cleanliness will make you stand out and attract more customers.

Quality and Value Addition

Oily chips aren’t good for they are dry but not cracking dry. Ensure your chips are well fried. Besides, you can always prepare some salad to accompany the chips. It could be kachumbari or some steamed cabbages with mayonnaise.
Sell smokies and sausages too as a supplement.

Lastly, manage your cash well,re-invest in the business, and be patient enough to witness your business growth.

By John Jim