SimpliFine expands across Kenya with locally produced Fine Foods

SimpliFine, a Kenyan integrated food producer, is expanding in Kenya with the rollout of 19 meat and vegetarian products arriving on retail shelves across the country.

SimpliFine’s new product range of meat and vegetarian products, produced and distributed by Kenyans for Kenyans, includes frozen meats, prepared meal accompaniments and a range of ready-to-cook prepared meals. These products complement quality French fries that SimpliFine supplies to restaurants, hotels, schools and catering businesses across Kenya.

The rapidly growing food producer is delivering quality, cost-conscious food products by sourcing directly from farmers. Using advanced processing equipment and BigCold’s temperature-controlled supply chain, SimpliFine can serve regional and export customers seeking fine foods.

The recent acquisition of the assets of Alpha Fine Foods Ltd. by SimpliFine’s parent company BlackIvy underpins the company’s endeavours in supporting regional farmers with access to commercial agricultural markets and assistance with partnerships in the farming sector. Employment numbers associated with SimpliFine’s supplier farmers are expected to triple by the end of the year.

“We are delighted to be expanding and investing across the food value chain in Kenya to provide quality, locally sourced fine foods. At SimpliFine, we are committed to making good, honest food with care and local ingredients. We are passionate about growing communities by delivering quality, nutritional foods at accessible prices,” said SimpliFine President, Steven Carlyon.

The Covid-19 pandemic has reshaped the global food industry and disrupted many existing supply chains. As Kenya continues to reposition itself economically, the country can strengthen regional value chains, reduce its reliance on imports and build economic resilience. SimpliFine is excited to support Kenyan farmers in capturing greater value from their farming operations while growing the country’s food supply.

“SimpliFine has purposely launched its operations in one of the most fertile regions of the country. We are working with enthusiastic farmers to maximise their yields while offering long-term supply agreements, attractive payment terms and off-take forecasting to inspire more farmers to turn land in Naivasha and Narok into income-generating opportunities,” says Carlyon.

Carlyon – a six-sigma trained food manufacturing business leader with experience across three continents, believes that opportunities are ripe for Kenya’s agricultural and food sectors.

Working with Carlyon to drive expansion across the region is Erick Ohomo, Business Manager for SimpliFine Foods. Ohomo is the former Executive Chef of Nairobi Java House, the acclaimed casual dining brand in East Africa.

Historically, the absence of a temperature-controlled supply chain has resulted in spoilage of up to 60% of locally-produced food, decreasing farmers’ income and increasing consumer prices. The lack of a consistent supply of quality products has also resulted in many hotels, restaurants and catering companies relying on expensive imported goods. Last year Kenya imported $2.5B in food products. SimpliFine is leveraging BigCold’s advanced supply chain management and operational expertise to ensure locally sourced quality food is delivered to customers efficiently and safely.