Nestlé Empowers Over 2,600 Food Vendors Through ‘Business of Food’ Workshops

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Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business unit of Nestlé Nigeria, says it has empowered more than 2,600 food vendors across 11 states through its Business of Food workshop series.

The latest edition was held in Bauchi State, where 250 food vendors, canteen operators, and caterers received hands-on training designed to sharpen their culinary and business management skills.

Speaking at the event, Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager at Nestlé Professional Nigeria, explained that the initiative is aimed at strengthening small food enterprises in Nigeria’s competitive service industry.

“Our goal is to see food vendors in Nigeria not just survive but thrive. Bauchi’s food entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in tradition, yet eager to innovate, and this excites us. By connecting them with practical skills, new ideas, and a network of peers, we are investing in businesses that feed families, create jobs, and preserve our rich culinary heritage,” Awelenje said.

The training covered areas such as menu planning, hygiene, pricing, customer service, and food styling. It also featured a live masterclass by Chef Paulina, who demonstrated innovative approaches to traditional Bauchi delicacies like Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.

Participants later competed in a cooking challenge, with winners recognised for creativity and presentation.

One of the participants, Justina Stephen, Managing Director of Justfine Restaurants, described the experience as transformative:

“The training opened my eyes to possibilities I never considered before and showed me how to plan my menu and price my meals better to increase profit. I am really excited about today’s programme and grateful to Nestlé,” she said.

According to Nestlé, the Business of Food series has helped vendors upgrade their menus, build stronger customer loyalty, and improve livelihoods.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s food service industry through innovation, nutrition improvement, and sustainable income opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs.