Create & Lead is House of Bombini’s feature on young and enterprising CEO’s who have established unique businesses in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Today, we share the story of Ehime Eigbe, the industrious CEO of Sweet Kiwi!
My name is Ehime Eigbe, I am the founder and CEO of Sweet Kiwi frozen yogurt.
How did the journey towards birthing the brand Sweet Kiwi start?
I was a big frozen yogurt fan already, upon my visit to Nigeria I noticed a lack of it in the market and I decided to start my own brand.
What was the reception like breaking into the Nigerian market especially considering the popularity of ice-cream brands/products in the country?
Reception was great, I think people were awaiting the entry of the product into the market already. Nigerians are getting more knowledgeable about healthy eating so this made it easier.
What advantage does the Sweet Kiwi frozen yogurt brand have over conventional ice-cream brands?
Sweet Kiwi recipe was specially developed for people who want to eat a healthy dessert, it is different even from most frozen yogurt brands. We created a product that is made complete from fat free yogurt. We do not add any milk in our product as that contains fat and calories. Our product is soft, refreshingly light and a great combination of sweet and tart yogurt.
How long have you been running this business in Nigeria?
Sweet Kiwi has been in operation for about 3 years.
Was it easy to get the buy in of sponsors to support your brand of frozen yogurt?
It is never easy for other people to buy into a vision only you can see so you have to come up with effective ways of communicating said vision.
What are your range of products?
We have soft serve frozen yogurt in over 150 flavours, Yogurt parfait, fruit cups, Oatmeal yogurt, waffles. We continue to generate new product lines as well.
How does the serving work?
We operate a self service concept. You walk into the store, pick a cup and serve the flavours you have a taste for, choose your toppings, weigh and pay for your purchase.
Why did you decide to go into franchising opportunities so early in the business?
We are still working on franchising at the moment.
What are the high points of being an entrepreneur in Nigeria?
I would say there are opportunities to do things in the space that have never been done before. There are always lessons to be learned as well.
Any advice for potential entrepreneurs?
I would say to lay proper foundations for any business you decide to start.
What’s a typical day in Ehi’s life like?
It really depends on the kind of day it is, one thing about being an entrepreneur in Nigeria is that your days are very unpredictable.
What is the one beauty accessory you can’t leave home without?
Lipbalm
Are you a jean or a dress kind of girl?
I used to be a jean girl but I would say dress girl now due to all the meetings I have to attend.
Your favorite vacation spot to be is?
Mexico
Thank you Ehi for sharing with us today!
1 Comment
Impressive. Good to run one’s show.