Pastry business is thriving in Nigeria today because it’s almost impossible for people to do without eating pastry products. They are easily available and always affordable to be consumed by many. This is because they can easily pass as a snack or refreshment at events before the main meal is served. Breads, doughnuts and pies, etc., are some of the examples of pastry products.Â
In Nigeria, the pastry business is good and highly profitable. Although the business is mostly practiced by baking experts or experienced bakers, that is not to say that only experts can venture into it.
Pastry business can be started by almost anyone as long as you are passionate about it. Either you are an expert or not you are required to know the basic requirements for starting a pastry business in Nigeria before venturing into it.
Basic Requirements to Get Started with Pastry Business in NigeriaÂ
Acquire the Necessary Skill
You do not necessarily need a degree to start a pastry business but it is important to get the required skill. Although having some experience to start a pastry business will serve as an added advantage with the required qualifications. Because starting a pastry business requires a good knowledge of all the necessary ingredients and processes for the best results.
The internet gives you the opportunity to learn anything online nowadays. Even if you have no knowledge of how to mix flour with other ingredients, you can learn everything on the internet. You can become perfect at the business after your learning process.
Also Read: How to Start Your Own Shawarma Business in Nigeria
Source for Business Capital
Getting capital is the first step to starting a business. You cannot start anything without it. For a small scale pastry business, you only need a small amount of capital to buy the few materials required for the production of the pastries. But the large scale pastry business needs a little more money. You will need to get equipment that will aid the production process.
Register Your Business Name with Relevant Government Agencies and Associations
Register your pastry business name with the relevant government agencies. It is very essential you register your business with the CAC as a legal entity. This will give you access to many benefits. One of the benefits of doing this is that your business gets a corporate identity to deal with other businesses. It also gives the opportunity to get grants or loans that you can use to expand your pastry business. You will not have this chance if you are not registered.
However, this does not mean you cannot start your pastry business without registration. You can still do the registration later but it is advisable to do it as early as possible. You will also have to register or get a license from regulatory agencies and bodies. Register with Association of Master Bread Bakers (AMBB) in your locality and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Note that before starting operations you will need to pass an inspection from a health department official.
You should also register for tax purposes with the relevant tax authorities. Register for Tax Identification Number (TIN) and understand your tax obligations. Tax obligations include Value Added Tax (VAT) and other applicable taxes. Make sure you don’t violate any environmental regulations in carrying out your pastry business activities.
Write Out Your Business Plan
Write a business plan as a guide for the pastry business. It can also be used as a prerequisite for accessing funding. The business plan should reflect your business realities. Things such as the amount available for investment, your competitors, your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats should be well analyzed in your business plan.
It should contain an executive summary detailing what the business is about; the management and ownership; a market analysis; the marketing and sales strategy; and how you will utilize available financial resources.
Search for a Good Location
Look for a suitable location and research for the existing competitors in the area. You will need a location with good pedestrian and vehicular movement. You need to be seen by as many people as possible on a daily basis. So,you need to consider a high-traffic location like a mall, big churches, school environment, a busy junction and so on. Make sure it is an area that does not have too many pastry shops.
Purchase all the Necessary Equipment
Buy all the necessary equipment and supplies for your pastry business. You will need pots and pans, wax paper and packaging boxes, baking bowls, mixers, measuring devices, gas cooker, pastry displays and baking equipment such as commercial ovens.
You may also need to get chairs and tables for a sit-out for your customers. This will be determined on your location and how much money you have. In addition to necessary equipment, high-quality ingredients are also among the basic requirements. They contribute to the taste and appeal of your pastry products, while reliable equipment improves productivity. The combination of both help maintain your pastry business reputation.
Develop a Pastry Menu
Before you develop your pastry menu take into consideration factors such as what your competition is offering, needs of the target market and current trends in the pastries industry. Also think about a niche market with customers preferences. Consider those who will buy high-end pastries. Price your pastries by considering ingredients, labor costs, business utilities and the intended profit margin.
Create an Online Presence
Take advantage of the internet by showcasing your brand online. This would help you market your pastry business. You can create a website for your brand apart from social media handles. You can easily get orders online through your website and social media accounts.
Develop a Marketing Strategy
The heart of any profitable business, like your pastry business, is not just producing good products. After production you need to get your products in the hands of your customers. This is where marketing and selling your pastry products become important.
Make use of all advertising mediums to promote your pastry business. Advertise your business through the traditional advertising media, social media, and other marketing channels to attract customers.
Also Read: Where to Buy the Best Shawarma in Aba
Conclusion
Starting a pastry business requires careful planning, hard work, and dedication. But if you follow the requirements stated above, with the right strategy and approach, you will run a successful and profitable pastry business. Try as much as possible to monitor and evaluate your business sales, profits, and customer feedback. This will give you the opportunity to evaluate your pastry business and make necessary improvements.
