From Machines to Munchies: How Flying Snack is Revolutionising Kenya’s Snack Industry
- Flying Snack switched from importing food machinery to manufacturing snacks after identifying a local gap in the market
- The company boosts the local economy by sourcing ingredients from Kenyan farmers and supporting small retailers
- The diverse market strategy and award-winning products make Flying Snack a household name across Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya — What started as a plan to import food processing machinery has turned into one of Kenya’s rising stars in the snack manufacturing sector.
Source: UGC
Flying Snack Co Ltd, a home-grown company with humble beginnings, is now making a huge impact on the local economy and changing the way Kenyans snack.
"The establishment of Flying Snack Co Ltd was more of a twist of fate than a traditional business plan," explained the CEO, Hafeez Virani, in an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke.
Initially, the company focused on importing food production equipment for resale, but then the directors spotted a more tantalising opportunity.
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"They recognised a unique gap in the local market for high-quality, locally produced snacks... and made the strategic decision to start their own snack production company instead," Virani continues.
Still, the company found it difficult to sell the machinery and shifted its focus to snacks.
Today, Flying Snack Co employs more than 20 people directly and indirectly and has firmly embedded itself in the Kenyan value chain — from farm to fork.
At the centre of Flying Snack’s business is a commitment to supporting local communities.
The company sources its raw materials — including maize and potatoes — from Kenyan farmers, creating a steady demand that supports rural livelihoods.
"This not only empowers individuals, but also supports families and communities across the country," explains the CEO.
Flying Snack’s influence extends far beyond agriculture. Its growing distribution network includes wholesalers, supermarkets, and hundreds of small retailers. Local kiosks, in particular, have benefited.
By offering innovative, high-quality products at competitive prices with attractive profit margins, the company enables these small businesses to grow and succeed.
Flying Snack’s dual market strategy targets both modern trade, such as supermarkets and hypermarkets, and general trade, such as corner shops and kiosks.
For the general trade, its products, such as the Snack Pop, retail from as low as KSh 10 per pack.
Source: UGC
"We are one of the few snack manufacturers that successfully serve both the modern trade and the general trade segment.
Every product that leaves our factory fulfils the same high standards,” he said.
CEO Virani explained that the approach has paid off, with Flying Snack’s snacks being enjoyed daily by thousands of Kenyans from all walks of life, and the company has earned trust and loyalty across the country.
Beyond profit, the company has a broader vision to contribute to consumer wellbeing by ensuring access to affordable, safe, and delicious snacks that meet international quality standards.
Flying Snack’s mode of operation and its impact on society have earned it several accolades, including the Best Packaging and Design in Kenya award and the Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing award.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
