NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 4 – Food industry leaders are calling for increased adoption of innovation and technology within the hospitality sector to drive growth and enhance the customer experience.
The leaders who spoke during the Expo currently underway in Nairobi emphasized the need for technological advancements to maintain and enhance the competitiveness of the region’s food and beverage industry.
Angela Kinyua, Managing Director of Montgomery Group EA, the event’s organizers, stated that innovation will go a long way in spurring revenues for the country.
“We are thrilled to host the Kenyan Food Event and provide a platform for showcasing the incredible culinary talent and diversity that East Africa has to offer.
“This underscores the importance of innovation in meeting market demands and boosting revenues,” she said.
The Expo, a premier culinary event in Nairobi, celebrates Kenya’s vibrant food scene and provides a platform for food enthusiasts, professionals, and renowned chefs to connect and showcase their passion for cuisine.
Over 50 companies are participating in this year’s event, emphasizing the need for technological advancements to maintain and enhance the competitiveness of the region’s food and beverage industry.
The industry players revealed that Kenya boasts over 3,800 restaurants as of early 2024, with growth slowing compared to pre-pandemic levels.
The country’s food production is projected to hit $13 billion by 2026, while beverage sales are expected to reach $3.5 billion.
The restaurant delivery market is also anticipated to grow significantly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.44 percent from 2024 to 2028.
According to the Economic Survey of 2024 by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the accommodation and food services sector grew by 26 percent in the third quarter of 2023, a notable increase from 2022.
However, the growth in beverage sales and the restaurant delivery market underscores the need for continuous innovation to sustain and enhance sector performance.
