Over 50 companies exhibiting at the ongoing Kenyan Food Event Expo in Nairobi have called on the hospitality industry to adopt innovation and technology as essential drivers for growth and enhanced customer experience. The annual culinary showcase, which celebrates Kenya’s diverse food scene, has become a pivotal platform for industry players to discuss the future of food and beverage services in the region.
The event, organized by Montgomery Group EA, features a wide range of activities, including cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and cultural displays. Angela Kinyua, Managing Director of Montgomery Group EA, emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to meet market demands and boost revenues. “This event is a celebration of our food culture and a testament to the passion and creativity of our chefs and food producers. However, for the industry to thrive, we must embrace innovations that enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction,” Kinyua stated.
Kenya’s hospitality industry has shown resilience post-pandemic, with over 3,800 restaurants operating as of January 2024. Despite the steady growth, Kinyua noted that the sector’s expansion has plateaued compared to pre-pandemic levels. “The only way to reignite our growth trajectory is through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that streamline operations and improve customer engagement,” she added.
The potential for growth in Kenya’s food and beverage sector is significant. According to projections, the country’s food production is expected to reach $13 billion by 2026, while beverage sales are anticipated to hit $3.5 billion. The restaurant delivery market, in particular, is poised for substantial expansion, with an estimated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.44 percent from 2024 to 2028, potentially reaching $424.90 million by 2028.
Data from the Economic Survey of 2024 by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) shows that the accommodation and food services sector grew by 26 percent in the third quarter of 2023, a marked increase from 2022’s 17 percent growth. The sector remains one of Kenya’s top three revenue earners, underscoring the importance of continued investment in innovation.
Kenya’s beverage industry is also on an upward trajectory, with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink sales at home projected to grow at annual rates of 8.03 percent and 9.43 percent, respectively, between 2024 and 2028. By 2024, revenue from alcoholic drinks at home is expected to reach $3.35 billion, while non-alcoholic drinks are forecasted to generate $5.39 billion.
As the expo continues to draw attention to the opportunities within Kenya’s food and beverage sector, industry stakeholders are urged to collaborate in adopting technological advancements that will drive the industry forward. The Kenyan Food Event Expo serves not only as a celebration of culinary talent but also as a crucial forum for shaping the future of the country’s hospitality industry.
For more insights and updates on Kenya’s food and beverage sector, visit the official website of the Kenyan Food Event Expo or follow their social media channels.
