Get Ready For The “Ember” Months

Hey there,

September is here and there’s a sense of excitement and urgency in the air. September marks the end of the rainy season in many parts of Nigeria and signals the start of the festive period, which means food businesses must be prepared for the upcoming surge in demand. However, this increase in demand also comes with its own set of challenges, including rising prices and supply chain pressures.

To navigate this bustling period successfully, food businesses must adopt practical strategies that ensure they are well-prepared to meet customer expectations while maintaining profitability. Here’s how you can get ready for the ember months;

1. Stock Up Early

The ember months often bring price hikes due to increased demand, so it's essential to secure your supplies before the rush. Start stocking up on key ingredients and essentials now to avoid last-minute price surges. Consider sourcing in bulk, especially on items that are likely to see a spike in demand.

2. Monitor Price Trends

With fluctuating prices and shifting consumer behaviours, staying informed about market trends is crucial. Keep an eye on key factors such as transportation costs, raw material prices, and currency exchange rates that could impact your pricing strategy. Being agile and ready to adjust your prices accordingly will help you maintain profit margins without alienating your customers.

3. Enhance Customer Experience

During the busy ember months, customer service becomes even more critical. Ensure your staff is well-prepared to handle the increased volume of orders, both in-house and for delivery. Offering personalised experiences, quick service, and a seamless ordering process can set your business apart from the competition. Additionally, consider offering loyalty programs or special discounts to encourage repeat business during this peak season.

4. Leverage Technology

Utilising technology can streamline operations and improve efficiency during the busy ember months. Implement tools that provide real-time inventory tracking to prevent stockouts and overstock situations. Also, use analytics tools to gain insights into customer preferences and buying patterns, guiding your inventory decisions and marketing strategies. It offers detailed reporting and analytics features that provide valuable customer behaviour insights.

The ember months present a unique opportunity for food businesses to capitalise on the festive spirit and increased demand. By anticipating customer needs, monitoring price trends, preparing for shifts in consumer behaviour, enhancing the customer experience, and leveraging technology, you can navigate this bustling season successfully. Embrace the excitement of the ember months, and position your food business for a prosperous end to the year!

And remember, we offer the best prices on all your favourite items. So, stock up and save this ember season!

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Hi Koko,

I’m one of your readers and I love your insightful responses. I’m struggling to find my niche in the culinary industry. How can I identify my speciality and stand out from other chefs?

Hi Tosin,

Thanks for being a supportive reader. To discover your niche, you need to reflect on your culinary passions, experiment with different cuisines and identify what sets your cooking apart. You can also consider your cultural heritage, personal experiences and values to create a unique culinary identity. All these are more like finding your secret ingredient.

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Bon appétit,

The Vendease Team???