For the last three years, John Maina has been running a fruit vending business which is frequently regarded as suitable only for a few people.
Following the loss of his teaching position due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he transitioned to the sale of fruits.
Maina’s choice has garnered a mix of support and criticism, as some individuals view fruit vending as a role predominantly appropriate for women.
“My decision to venture into fruit vending came from necessity. As an unemployed graduate, I worked as a teacher in a private school, but I lost my job when the pandemic hit. I spent a year hawking fruits before I could afford a cart to operate from one place,” he explained.
Maina focuses on the sale of pineapples, buying stock worth between Ksh 3,000 and Ksh 5,000 two to three times each week.
He typically generates an average daily profit of Ksh 2,000.
Nevertheless, Maina encounters certain challenges, including the occasional receipt of bitter pineapples, which may deter customers permanently.
Furthermore, the rainy season presents an additional obstacle.
“During the rain, it’s hard because we’re exposed, and customers don’t like to take pineapples in cold days. Sometimes, I buy large quantities of stock, but if the weather is cold, I’m stuck with them longer than expected,” he stated.
Such circumstances may result in financial setbacks, compelling him to obtain loans from unscrupulous lenders to sustain his business operations.
Nevertheless, Maina has successfully acquired land and constructed a residence using the profits from his business, and he now aspires to shift towards farming in the future.
Notably, the fruit vending business in Kenya is highly profitable, with profit margins ranging from 50% to 80% per sale.
Starting costs are low, often around Ksh 2000, making it accessible for many entrepreneurs.
Daily profits can vary; for instance, vendors report earnings between Ksh 300 to Ksh 2500, like in Maina’s case, depending on sales volume and location.
Success factors include strategic placement, customer relationships, and maintaining hygiene standards.
