Nestlé Professional, the Out-of-Home business arm of Nestlé Nigeria, has empowered over 2,600 food vendors across 11 states since the launch of its Business of Food workshop series.

The latest edition of the initiative took place in Bauchi State, where 250 food vendors, canteen operators, and caterers received hands-on training to improve their culinary and business skills.

Speaking on the impact, Ibraheem Awelenje, Business Manager at Nestlé Professional Nigeria, said the programme aims to help small food businesses thrive in Nigeria’s competitive food service industry.

“Our goal is to see food vendors in Nigeria not just survive but thrive. Bauchi’s food entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in tradition, yet eager to innovate, and this excites us. By connecting them with practical skills, new ideas, and a network of peers, we are investing in businesses that feed families, create jobs, and preserve our rich culinary heritage,” he said.

The workshop covered areas such as menu planning, hygiene, pricing, customer service, and food styling. It also featured a live masterclass by Nigerian chef, Chef Paulina, who showcased elevated approaches to local dishes like Dafadukan Shinkafa Da Awara.

Participants later took part in a cooking challenge, with winners celebrated for creativity and presentation.

Justina Stephen, Managing Director of Justfine Restaurants, praised the initiative:
“I am really excited about today’s programme and grateful to Nestlé. The training opened my eyes to possibilities I never considered before and showed me how to plan my menu and price my meals better to increase profit.”

Since its inception, the Business of Food series has helped vendors enhance their menus, build customer loyalty, and strengthen their livelihoods, Nestlé said in a statement.

Nestlé Professional remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s food service industry by fostering innovation, improving nutrition, and creating sustainable income opportunities for small-scale food entrepreneurs.