In Kenya, how do I import bubble tea materials from Taiwan?

In just a decade, bubble tea has gone viral worldwide, you could almost buy it in every city around the world. Bubble tea has become a part of our daily life, people nowadays have a cup of bubble tea to soothe their exhausted spirit.

Should I step in the business?

People might think if it is worthy to open a bubble tea shop? According to the research, the trend is not slowing down, with a compound annual growing rate (CAGR) of 8.9% from 2023~2030. The global bubble tea market size was valued at USD 2.75 billion in 2022. And it is expected to grow up to 4.78 billion by 2032.

If you are located in Kenya, what should you prepare for?

Step 1: Conduct Market Research

Before venturing into the bubble tea business, it’s crucial to understand the market. Consider the following:

1. Target Audience: Who are your customers? Bubble tea mostly appeals to younger generations, such as students and young workers.

2. Competition: Identify existing competitors and analyze their pricing, product range, and customer service.

3. Location: High-traffic areas like malls, universities, or busy streets are ideal for bubble tea shops.

4. Preferences: Customize your menu to local tastes while maintaining classic bubble tea flavors.

Step 2: Register Your Business

To operate fluently, register your business with the Kenyan government. Here’s how:

1. Business Name Registration: Choose a unique name and register it with Kenya’s Business Registration Service (BRS).

2. Obtain Permits: Secure licenses such as a Single Business Permit from the county government.

3. Tax Compliance: Register for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for tax purposes.

4. Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Clearance: KEBS is responsible for enforcing standards in Kenya. Ensure your products comply with KEBS requirements. The PVoC certificate will facilitate this clearance.

Step 3: Source Equipment and Ingredients

Invest in high-quality equipment and authentic ingredients to provide a fantastic experience of bubble tea:

1. Essential Equipment: Bubble tea machines, shakers, blenders, sealing machines, and refrigerators.







2. Ingredients: Tapioca pearls, flavored powders, syrups, tea leaves, and milk. You can source these locally or import them from trusted suppliers.

3. Packaging: Choose appealing and eco-friendly packaging to attract customers.

As an old saying goes, Time is Money. All the above items, with Fokus Inc., you could source them in one place, which save you from wasting your precious time.

Step 4: Build your dream shop for customers

The atmosphere is the key to drawing customers’ attention and keeping your customers coming. With the right vibe, customers will flood in eventually:

1. Design: Create a cozy and worthy to take pictures interior.

2. Hiring the right people: They could not only deliver excellent customer service but also make the drink of the right standard.

   
   

   

   
   

3. Market Your Business: Popularity mostly comes from social media. Therefore, Instagram, FB or other social media are the tools for your business.

Step 5: Always monitor and optimize

After launching, continuously assess your business performance. Track sales, customer feedback, and inventory levels. Making adjustments as needed to improve operations and maximize profits.

Conclusion

Opening a bubble tea shop in Kenya is a promising opportunity if executed correctly. By conducting thorough research, planning strategically, and delivering exceptional products, you can create a thriving business. With support from Fokus Inc. and with dedication and a focus on quality, your bubble tea shop can become a popular destination for locals and visitors at the moment.