Nigerian food technology startup, ReelFruit, has unveiled its new factory in Ogun State, marking a significant milestone for the company and the dried fruit industry in the country.
The impressive facility boasts an 800-metric ton processing capacity, marking it the largest of its kind in Nigeria. This translates to the creation of over 280 new jobs, a crucial contribution to the local economy. The Nigerian community has expressed admiration for founder Affiong Williams’ tenaciously pursuing her vision especially during a time of economic turbulence like this. There have been online deliberations on the possibility of seeing ReelFruit products in major retailers like Whole Foods in the future.
Committed to sourcing high-quality ingredients, ReelFruit plans to further strengthen its partnerships with Nigerian fruit farmers. Through an innovative agro-extension program, they will support 250 registered mango and pineapple producers, aiming to boost fruit yields and ensure a consistent supply for the factory’s operations.
To cater to the growing demand for their healthy, dried fruit snacks, ReelFruit will be diversifying its sales channels. This includes expanding their local and international presence, along with the launch of a dedicated e-commerce platform for direct sales in the US market.
The new factory is expected to significantly ramp up production, increasing monthly output from 6 metric tons to a staggering 30 metric tons. This ambitious goal will be fueled by the initial workforce of over 200 employees hired in the first year, demonstrating the company’s commitment to job creation and economic growth.
This milestone marks a significant achievement for ReelFruit, showcasing the potential of Nigerian innovation in the food technology space. Under the leadership of Affiong Williams, the company is poised to not only satisfy the demand for healthy snacks but also empower local farmers and contribute to the nation’s economic development.
