Shawarma is becoming one of Nigeria’s most loved street foods, enjoyed by people of all ages. While it’s not originally Nigerian, the flavor-packed, versatile dish has been locally adapted to cater to Nigerian tastes. With the rise in demand, starting a shawarma business is a lucrative venture that could yield great returns, provided you follow the right steps and do it well.
If you’re considering launching your own shawarma business, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you succeed.
1. Master the Art of Making Shawarma
Before you start selling, it’s crucial to learn the skill of making perfect shawarma. Although the process is simple, your recipe and preparation techniques should be top-notch to win customers. You can take a short training or apprenticeship to learn from an expert, and within a week, you’ll be ready to create your own shawarma masterpiece.
2. Conduct Thorough Market Research
Before you dive into the business, you must understand the local market and its dynamics. Here’s what to focus on:
• Location: Choose a spot with high foot traffic like near schools, offices, or markets. Avoid areas with stiff competition to maximize your chances of success.
• Target Market: Know your audience. Is your target market students, office workers, or families? The spending power of your target customers will determine your pricing and location.
• Competition: Study your competitors closely. Understand what they’re doing right and where they fall short. Aim to offer better quality or unique services that will set you apart.
• Capital: You’ll need between ₦300,000 to ₦1,000,000 for the initial investment. This will cover rent, equipment, ingredients, and staffing.
• Pricing and Profit: Shawarma is a profitable business, but price your products competitively. Aim for a price point that reflects the quality of your ingredients and the market rate.
Don’t forget to draft a detailed business plan to stay focused on your goals and approach.
3. Choose Your Setup: Rent or Container?
You have two options for setting up your shawarma business:
• Renting a Shop: A more traditional option, renting a store provides a professional environment but comes with higher overhead costs.
• Shawarma Container: A flexible option, perfect for moving locations if necessary. The initial setup might be costly, but it can save money in the long run.
Choose the option that suits your budget and business goals.
4. Source Your Ingredients and Equipment
Your shawarma business will need the right ingredients and equipment. Common ingredients include pita bread, chicken, beef, veggies like cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers, as well as sauces like mayonnaise and ketchup. For equipment, you’ll need kitchen tools, a fryer, deep freezer, and cleaning supplies.
5. Register Your Business
As your business grows, ensure that you register with relevant authorities such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and NAFDAC. This ensures compliance with health and food safety regulations, preventing any future legal complications.
6. Promote Your Shawarma Business
Marketing is crucial for attracting customers. A great product alone won’t bring customers if they don’t know about you. Focus on the four Ps of marketing:
• Promotion: Advertise through social media, flyers, and word of mouth.
• Place: Choose a location with high foot traffic and visibility.
• Price: Ensure your pricing is competitive and reflective of your product’s quality.
• Product: Consistently offer high-quality shawarmas that stand out from your competition.
With the right promotion, word will spread, and your business will attract loyal customers.
Conclusion
Starting a shawarma business in Nigeria is a great opportunity due to the increasing demand for this delicious meal. By following the right steps—learning the craft, conducting market research, choosing a good location, sourcing quality ingredients, registering your business, and marketing effectively—you can create a successful shawarma business that generates profits for years to come.
