The Rise of Processed and Fast Food in Nigeria

The food industry is one of the best-performing sectors in Nigeria. The industry has grown rapidly due to affordability and convenience. Furthermore, a fast-growing overall population and increasing urbanization are other catalysts encouraging this growth. There is a creative and innovative entrepreneurialism on display across products ranging from noodles & dairy through to processed & baked goods.

In recent times, the food industry in Nigeria has experienced vast growth. The fast food industry in Nigeria became prominent in the 1970s. In 1973, Nigeria’s oldest fast food chain Mr. Biggs, owned by UAC, was founded and paved the way for this thriving sector which now hosts 18 main fast food brands with over 800 stores located in Nigeria.

The growth in the fast food industry in Nigeria has been a key contributor to the Nigerian economy through the creation of employment opportunities for Nigerians. According to a report by the Oxford Business Group, as of 2014, there were over 500,000 workers employed in the fast food industry. The shift to fast food has been as a result of the growing purchasing power of consumers, increasing awareness of international trends and – of course –  convenience.

Another key part of the Nigerian food industry is the food processing and manufacturing sector. The food processing sector is one of the best-performing industries in Nigeria.  The sector sources products from the local and international community and development of strong brands across various food types are now widespread. It’s this very growth in the food sector that creates a plethora of opportunity, both for local and international companies.

Food Nigeria, organized by Informa Life Sciences Exhibitions, runs from 18 -20 May 2016 in Lagos, Nigeria at the Eko Convention Centre. The event will provide a platform for international and regional food and beverage companies to network and cultivate business ties in Nigeria. The Food Nigeria conferences will discuss major topics and issues including supply chain management, food technology, and retail innovation.

Informa Life Sciences successfully runs seven events in Nigeria alone addressing the Nigerian economy’s requirements. The exhibition will host more than 150 international companies across 2,500 sqm of exhibition space. The companies will represent more than 20 country pavilions welcoming an expected 6000 attendees. The event is supported by the Association of Food Vendors in Nigeria (AFVN), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC), The Ogbaru Main Market Onitsha and National Association of Supermarket Operators of Nigeria (NASON).

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nnenna

Nnenna is an editor and writer at Connect Nigeria. She loves fine art, books and places.

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