50+ Drinks and Beverage Production Business Ideas In Nigeria Or Africa

Foods and drinks are indispensable items for survival, and so, are always in high demand everywhere around the world, with the global beverage industry (non-alcoholic) worth over USD 1.3 trillion as of Q1, 2022.

Drinks and beverages can never go out of demand. No matter the occasion or timing, a lot of people love to have one or two satisfying glasses or bottles of a good drink. A chilled bottle of a favourite soda, juice on a sunny day, or a steaming cup of tea or coffee in the mornings can help most people go through their days. Hence, a drink and beverage production business will always get constant patronage in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

From energy drinks to health drinks, juices, sodas, sparkling water, alcoholic beverages, coffee and tea, there are a lot of business ideas in the drinks and beverage industry to explore.

If you’re looking for business opportunities in the drinks and beverage industry to venture into, here are 50 lucrative drinks and beverage business ideas you can start in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. 

1). Energy Drinks Production:

Energy drinks are beverages that contain stimulants, usually caffeine and sugar. They are said to provide mental and physical stimulation. However, not all energy drinks are carbonated. Some energy drinks contain other sweeteners, herbal extracts, amino acids, and taurine. 

Energy drinks are increasingly popular, especially among the youths in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. 

2). Herbal Tea Production:

There is increasing awareness of the need to maintain healthy lifestyles, and so, many people have become more conscious of their food consumption, sticking to natural diet solutions. Consequently, herbal tea has grown in more demand.

Starting a herbal tea production business can be a profitable venture once targeted to the right market in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

3). Distilling and Blending of Spirits:

Spirits are alcoholic drinks produced by distillation of liquid drinks made with grains, fruits, or vegetables that have already gone through alcohol fermentation. This distilled liquor can be in the form of gin, vodka, rum, and brandy. Liquors are always in demand. They have very good retail value and can rake in alot of profits.

4). Vegetable Juice Production:

Vegetable juice is a drink mainly composed of blended vegetables. It is also available in the form of powders. Vegetable juice is often mixed with fruits like apples or grapes to improve its flavour. It is generally a low-sugar alternative to fruit juice.

5). Wine Making (Winery):

Winemaking or vinification refers to the production of wine. This process starts with selecting the fruit, fermenting it into alcohol, and bottling the finished product. The winery has a very long history and it is still relevant to date. Entrepreneurs who live in an area with an abundance of vineyards, can start a micro-winery and make wines for sale to the local community. 

On a large scale, with the right resources, you can network with vine farmers and produce large volumes of wine in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

6). Cider Production Business:

This is different from the apple cider drink. Cider is a fermented, alcoholic drink made commonly from apple juice, and also peach and pear juices or other fruits. Cider may be made from any variety of apples, but specific cultivars grown solely for use in cider are known as cider apples.

7). Malt Drink Production:

Malt drink is a lightly carbonated malt beverage that is brewed from barley, hops, and water, much like beer. Corn and caramel colour may also be added to it. Malt drinks are very popular, they are served on different occasions and can be drunk for personal satisfaction. This makes it a lucrative business. It takes some brewing to get this beverage; so, investors may have to set up a microbrewery.

8). Malt Liquor Production:

Malt liquor is a strong lager or ale in which sugar, corn, or other adjuncts are added to the malted barley to boost the total amount of fermentable sugars in the mix. This gives a boost to the final alcohol concentration without creating a heavier or sweeter taste. Thus, they are not very bitter. Since this also requires brewing, it is necessary to set up a microbrewery.

9). Milk Production:

Milk production is a lucrative business to venture into. Milk is used for baking and cooking various meals and can also be drunk. There are also several niches to choose from in the milk production industry, such as coconut milk production, almond milk, goat milk, cow milk, and much more.

The milk production business is best practised in regions with high cattle-rearing activities. Notwithstanding, investors with the right distribution channel can establish a milk production business anywhere in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

10). Condensed Milk Production:

Of all the niches of milk production, cow milk is undoubtedly the most common. Condensed milk is cow milk from which water has been removed. It is most often found in the form of sweetened condensed milk that has some added sugar. The amount of water in the milk is reduced by about 60 per cent to produce condensed milk. Then, enough sugar is added to make a thickened paste. 

You can bottle or can your products and distribute them to grocery stores in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

11). Frozen Yoghurt Business:

Yoghurt is a healthy and satisfying drink, especially when served cold. The frozen yoghurt business is all about offering variety to your customers. You can offer anything from smoothies to parfaits with an infinite amount of toppings and flavour combinations. The key to success in the frozen yoghurt production business is how well you can craft a speciality recipe, among other factors. 

12). Ice Cream Production:

There’s nothing like a cone of ice cream on a hot afternoon. Although ice cream is typically eaten as a snack or dessert, it provides the same refreshing feeling as your typical juice. It is made from dairy products, such as milk and cream, and often combined with fruits or other ingredients and flavours. Ice cream production is a great small-scale business for entrepreneurs with low capital to start on their terms and from the comfort of their homes. Choose the right flavours and location, and you are in business!

13). Gourmet Ice-Cream Cones:

Regardless of the increasingly abundant use of plastic containers, ice-cream cones will always remain a vital part of the ice-cream experience. Besides making gourmet cones for an ice cream business, you can also provide them for ice cream parlours that are too busy to produce their own.

It is important to differentiate the cones by providing distinct flavour profiles, colours, and shapes. This is a business you can easily start at home and scale up as needed to supply local ice cream parlours/vendors.

14). Coconut Juice Production Business:

Coconut juice is the clear liquid inside young green coconuts. It is a popular drink in places such as South East Asia, Pacific Islands, India, the Brazilian coast, and the Caribbean, where it is consumed fresh or in canned and bottled forms.

Recently, there has been increasing awareness of the health benefits of coconut juice in Nigeria and other African countries. This has led to a sharp increase in the demand for the product. The drink has been marketed as a natural energy drink due to its high potassium and mineral content. It is also known for having low levels of fat, carbohydrates, and calories. More so, it is identical in composition to human plasma (the liquid component of the blood), hence, can be used for dehydrated patients.

15). Ice Block Production Business:

The challenge of increased temperatures in most African countries, coupled with unstable electricity, creates the constant need for ice blocks. Ice blocks are necessary to chill drinks and preserve foods for personal and business purposes. 

For effectiveness, it is advisable to site the ice block factory at a location close to town, to aid delivery and distribution in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. 

16). Alkaline Coffee Production Business:

A lot of people cannot do without a regular dose of morning coffee. However, excessive caffeine can lead to a build-up of acid in the body which is potentially harmful. Alkaline coffee is a much better alternative since it doesn’t lead to a build-up of acid. There is a growing demand for this type of coffee, making it a lucrative business.

17). Smoothies Production Business:

The demand for smoothies has grown considerably over the past few years in most African countries, especially in student communities. More so, many fitness and health enthusiasts prefer to have smoothies for breakfast. Starting a smoothie business is highly profitable and appeals better to customers if it comes with different flavours and blends.

18). Smoothie Powder Production:

Other than making fresh smoothies, one can consider processing smoothies into powder and packaging them for sale. This will work for the convenience of customers as they would have access to it anytime, anywhere in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

19). Cocoa Powder Production:

Cocoa powder is the powdered form of dry cocoa derived from cocoa beans. It is used as a flavour in ice creams and dairy drinks. Cocoa powder is a healthy stimulant. It is heavily used in the beverage industry, for example, to produce chocolate milk. It can also be drunk as a hot cocoa drink. This is another product that can make a lot of profits in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

20). Chocolate Production:

Chocolate powder is the final product of cocoa, which combines cocoa powder and other ingredients such as sugar, creamer, and much more. It is used to create the desired chocolate we all love. Chocolates are much loved by many people around the world. They are very high in demand. The market is competitive but there’s always room for new entrants with the right competitive strategies up their sleeves.

21). Grape Wine Production:

Grape wines are common in restaurants, nightclubs, and parties. The demand for grape wine is very high all over the world, creating an opportunity for entrepreneurs to make a lot of money from producing their own brand. Grape wine is considered an exotic drink in most parts of Africa. Therefore, selling a grape wine product at affordable prices is bound to build a massive business.

22). Raw Materials and Chemical Supply:

A highly profitable business in the drinks and beverage production industry is to supply raw materials and chemicals to drinks and beverages manufacturing companies. You can supply raw farm supplies, preservatives, and several others to businesses and factories that need them for their respective production in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. This is a consistent business since many companies in the drinks and beverage industry constantly need raw materials for their production.

23). Carbonated Water Production Business: 

Carbonated water is a refreshing beverage and a good alternative to sugary soft drinks. Carbonated water is water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. This produces a bubbly drink also known as sparkling water, club soda, soda water, seltzer water, and fizzy water. 

With a good distribution system, you can build an empire out of the carbonated water production business. There is also a chance to distribute to sports clubs, parties, and hotels, among others. 

24). Soft Drinks Production Business:

Soft drinks are drinks that usually contain water, sweeteners, and flavourings, artificial or natural. They are usually, but not always, carbonated. Soft drinks have high market value as people everywhere consume them. They are always found at different parties and occasions. 

25). Tapioca Processing and Packaging:

Tapioca powder is used to make bubble teas as well as puddings. It is the starch extracted from cassava roots and can be prepared in different ways depending on your chosen recipe. When prepared properly, it is refreshing and nutritious. Making it into powdered form provides an even wider market reach.

26). Hibiscus Tea (Zobo) Production Business:

Zobo is a common drink in West Africa. It is made from the hibiscus sabdariffa leaves, also called zobo leaves. It is a tasty and healthy drink served at parties and ceremonies as light refreshment. It is also commonly enjoyed at home. With the right recipe and flavours, starting and building a Zobo business can be very rewarding in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

27). Millet Drink (Kunu) Production Business: 

Kunu drink is a popular drink in Nigeria made from whole grains of millets and sometimes, sorghum or corn. It is quite popular in most parts of Nigeria, especially the northern part where it originates. It has a spicy, nutty flavour and is packed with nourishing vitamins and minerals.

Although it is mostly found at specific places in Africa, kunu drink production is a business one can establish anywhere there is a market for it.

28). Tiger Nut Milkshake:

Kunu aya is another blend of natural goodness. It is a Northern Nigerian beverage made from a mix of tiger nuts, coconut, dates, and ginger. It is a nourishing drink, rich in numerous nutrients including fibre and vitamin E. It is a lucrative business as it is well-loved by many. 

29). Coffee Shop Business:

Opening a coffee shop is another business idea. Many people love their coffees and simply cannot do without them. As the owner of a coffee shop, it is necessary to deliver the absolute best to customers in terms of flavours and taste. To make it even more lucrative, you can include snacks in your menu, offering customers even better service.

30). Tea Shop Business:

Tea is a popular drink in many countries and it is available in a variety of flavours. After water, it is the most widely consumed drink in the world. There are caffeinated and decaffeinated teas, and it is a nutritious beverage due to its numerous antioxidants. If you’re thinking of going into the tea business, you could decide to open your tea café or start an online tea retail business in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world

31). Iced Tea Production Business:

Iced tea is a form of cold tea usually served with ice. It may be sweetened with sugar, syrup and/or apple slices. Iced tea is also a popular packaged drink and can be mixed with flavoured syrup, with multiple common flavours such as lemon, raspberry, lime, passion fruit, peach, orange, strawberry, and cherry.

32). Drinks and Beverages Packaging:

Drinks and beverage packaging has a massive market that continues to appreciate globally. Providing packaging materials to companies that produce drinks and beverages is a lucrative venture in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. Types of packaging include bottles, cans, pouches, cartons, nylon and several others. Packaging is important to business and many companies aim to use unique and convenient packages for their products.

33). Aseptic Packaging:

Aseptic packaging refers to a specialised manufacturing technique that sterilises food separately from the packaging. In a sterile atmosphere, the contents are then placed into the container by the aseptic packaging companies. Drinks and beverages are packaged aseptically. Aseptic packages, among other things, increase the shelf life of drinks and beverages and eliminate the need for preservatives. Aseptic packaging is a lucrative business to venture into in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

34). Water Bottling Business: 

Water is certainly the most widely consumed drink in the world. Everybody drinks water, whether you’re on a diet or not. The benefits and importance of water are innumerable. Starting a sachet or bottled water business is very lucrative. However, you need to invest in equipment for filtering and packaging. 

35). Milkshakes:

From vanilla milkshakes to banana milkshakes, everybody loves a good serving of this almost irresistible drink. This sweet drink has certainly found acceptance among people in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. Starting a milkshake business anywhere in Nigeria or Africa at large or adding it to one’s beverage business can boost revenues.

36). Health Shakes:

Health shakes are blended drinks intended to be healthy for a person to consume. They are often consumed by sportspeople as part of a fitness diet or as a meal replacement. Health shakes may include a variety of ingredients, including powdered nutrients, superfoods, bee pollen, peanut butter, coconut oil, bean powder, clover sprouts, and so on. The multiple health benefits of health shakes contribute massively to their market value. 

37). Protein Shakes:

Not to be confused with health shakes, protein shakes act as food supplements. They provide the body with proteins and related nutrients. For people conscious of their health, having a protein shake bar down the street can be a blessing. 

Hence, starting a protein shake business is a great business idea. However, you have to target the right clientele. 

38). Non-Alcoholic Wine Production Business:

Not everyone likes to take alcohol. However, it will be an awkward situation when one is left unattended to at a formal event where wine is being served. A de-alcoholised or non-alcoholic wine will serve well at such parties and events where wines are served freely. Although the market is relatively smaller, there is a great prospect for this business.

39). Non-alcoholic Beer:

Non-alcoholic or low-alcohol beer is a beer with little or no alcohol content. Similar to the de-alcoholised wine, it aims to reproduce the taste of beer while eliminating (or at least reducing) the inebriating effects of standard alcoholic brews. It is a more lucrative business in places where alcoholic beverages are banned.

40). Apple Cider Production Business:

Apple cider is an unfiltered, unsweetened, non-alcoholic beverage made from apples. Fresh liquid cider is extracted from the whole apple. It is opaque due to fine apple particles in suspension and tangy. However, to extend its shelf life, it is necessary to pasteurise it.

41). Honey Processing Business:

Honey processing involves liquefying and filtering raw honey. With honey as a natural sweetener for many beverages, the value continues to grow daily. The production process is simple and can be initiated on a small-scale and home-based basis. With the growing awareness of the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, you can make good profits out of this business in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

42). Lemonade Production Business:

Lemonade is a popular sweetened lemon-flavoured beverage. It is prepared using lemon juice, water, and a sweetener such as cane sugar, simple syrup, or honey. It can also be carbonated. Lemonade is a refreshing beverage enjoyed by people in many countries, and is good for business in African countries, especially among the elite and educated population.

43). The ‘-ade’ Beverages:

These are fruit-flavoured beverages. Apart from lemonade, other common ‘-ades’ are limeade, orangeade and cherryade. Like lemonade, they may be carbonated or non-carbonated. They are often always made from citrus fruits. 

44). Sport (Electrolyte) Drinks:

Sports drinks are functional beverages used by athletes to replace water, electrolytes, and energy before, during, and especially after training or competition. They provide all necessary nutrients, electrolytes, and fluid requirements that are lost during exercise to rehydrate the body and enhance performance. 

The sports drink production company has to target the right market to stay in business in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world. 

45). Root Beer Production Business:

Root beer is a sweet North American soft drink traditionally made using the root bark of the sassafras tree or the vine of sarsaparilla as the primary flavour. It is usually, but not always, non-alcoholic, caffeine-free, sweet, and carbonated. Like beer, it mostly has a thick and foamy head. It is common to add vanilla ice cream to make a root beer float.

46). Relaxation Drinks Production Business:

A relaxation drink is a non-alcoholic beverage containing calming ingredients found in nature. It is a functional beverage that serves to calm a person, but unlike other calming beverages such as tea, it almost universally contains more than one active ingredient. Relaxation drinks may be served chilled and carbonated. They can also be served in shot-form. It works well for people experiencing stress, sleep disorders and the likes.

47). Brewery:

A brewery or brewing company is a business that makes and sells beer. Beer is a by-product of grains like hops, wheat, corn, etc. So, brewing involves processing cereals and grains into an alcoholic beverage. A brewery is a beverage production business idea best practised with huge capital

However, individuals with low capital can start a microbrewery that produces craft beers. Note that different licenses and permissions are required to start this business in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

48). Punch Production Business:

The term punch refers to a wide assortment of drinks, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic, generally containing fruits or fruit juices. Punch is common all over the world and comes in different concoctions. Finding a recipe that works wherever you are is key to breaking into the business.

49). Fruit Juice Production:

Processing fruits into juices is another lucrative business that enjoys a steady market. Fruit juices are used in homes, canteens, hotels, restaurants, and also in various events such as weddings, birthday parties, baby showers, and all types of celebrations. 

For entrepreneurs who know their onions, a fruit juice brand won’t take more than a good marketing strategy to become a household name. One could also do with dependable advertising and distribution systems.

50). Bar Business:

People who know how to mix cocktails properly can as well open a licensed bar. They can also sell other alcoholic and even non-alcoholic drinks to make maximum profit. It will take some capital to set up, but in the long run, it’ll be worth the investment.

To Sum It Up

The drinks and beverage production is replete with lucrative business ideas for entrepreneurs depending on the location and targeted market. If you’re looking for business opportunities in the drinks and beverage industry to venture into, you can choose from any of the 50+ lucrative drinks and beverage business ideas mentioned in this article to start in Nigeria, Africa and many places around the world.

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