In the business world, there are two distinct models: Selling ready-made products and manufacturing your own. Each approach has its advantages and drawbacks. While selling existing products can yield quick profits, venturing into manufacturing offers a more profound sense of fulfillment over the long term.
Manufacturing empowers you to create something truly unique and original. It grants you greater control over product quality and design, allowing you to establish a brand and reputation for excellence. Ricky Nyaga, the founder of Katya Natures Limited, exemplifies this transition.
Once a police officer, Ricky shifted gears to focus on manufacturing. His company specialises in crafting natural goat milk soaps, renowned for their distinctive ingredients. Over time, Katya Natures Limited has expanded its reach, with products now available in various markets.
For how long were you employed?
I also worked in insurance and as the East African Breweries Limited (EABL) Keg distributor in Embu before founding a beauty products company, Cleo Nature together with a friend. This was a company dealing with the manufacturing of cosmetics products, but we later separated and I started my own company, Katya Natures Limited which manufactures natural goat milk soaps.
At what point did you decide to switch to manufacturing?
Frequent requests and an unexpected demand from our circle of friends led to the creation of an enterprise in 2017. It is during this time that we began manufacturing a variety of skincare and hair products for sale. We did a lot of research before we reached this point.
What does one need to have in place to succeed in the manufacturing business?
How do you source your raw materials?
Do you have employees?
What are some of the products you make from goat milk?
How did you raise capital to start the business?
What are some of the achievements you have realised?
What are your goals?
