In commemoration of International Women’s Day, Nestlé Professional, the out-of-home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, successfully hosted the 10th edition of its Business of Food workshop in Benin. This initiative has transformed and equipped over 2,000 food businesses across Nigeria in the last three years, providing essential skills and knowledge to enhance operations, drive growth, and increase income.
In line with the theme “Accelerate Action” for International Women’s Day, this initiative underscores the urgent need to empower women and drive gender equality in the food industry, enabling them to take meaningful steps towards success and community impact.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Funmi Osineye, Business Manager for Nestlé Professional in Nigeria, stated: “Food vendors play a vital role in providing essential nutrition to their communities. Throughout 10 editions of this workshop in various states, we have received numerous testimonials, particularly from women whose businesses have experienced significant growth. This is why, as the world unites to accelerate action in creating more opportunities for women to thrive, we are excited to offer this workshop, which empowers them to build sustainable businesses and enhance their impact in this vital sector. Additionally, we aim to foster networking opportunities that enable women to forge valuable business connections and collaborations.”
Applauding the initiative, Princess Esther Eruanga said, “The workshop aligns with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, emphasizing the crucial role women play in shaping communities and economies. By empowering female food entrepreneurs, the event supports broader efforts to create a more inclusive and thriving food ecosystem.”
Another major highlight of the event was a masterclass hosted by celebrity Chef Vivian, Managing Director of Wedding and Things Events, which showcased practical skills and techniques designed to enhance the participants’ business operations. Feedback from attendees indicated significant improvements in their understanding of essential business practices, paving the way for better service delivery and increased sales.
Adai Favour from Caviar Culinary Art Schools stated, “I really learned a lot during the panel discussions from the professionals. This experience will help me when I start my own food kitchen in the future.”
The event not only celebrated the achievements of women in the food industry but also reinforced Nestlé Professional’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive. Through initiatives like the Business of Food workshop, Nestlé continues to support and empower entrepreneurs in building successful businesses.
About Nestlé Professional:
Nestlé Professional is the Out-of-Home arm of Nestlé, and it focuses on providing innovative, high-quality food and beverage solutions to the out-of-home, or foodservice, industry in Nigeria. This division caters to a wide range of customers, including restaurants, hotels, cafes, offices, catering companies, coffee shops, and other food service providers. Our Vision is to be the trusted partner of choice in Out-of-Home by providing affordable and nutritious food and beverage solutions that help our customers win.
About Nestlé:
Nestlé Nigeria is Africa’s top food and beverage company, known for its quality, excellence, and commitment to creating shared value. With a heritage of more than 63 years in Nigeria and its household brands, the firm continues to ensure the availability and accessibility of nutritious food and beverage products. In addition, the firm supports the communities closest to its operations and takes action to safeguard the environment through sustainable business practices.
With over 2,300 direct employees, 3 factories, and 7 branch offices across Nigeria, Nestlé produces and markets iconic brands, including Maggi, Milo, Golden Morn, Nestlé Pure Life, and Cerelac.