07/29/2024
When I started Eko Kitchen 6 years ago, I had no idea how it would turn out but I had a plan. I created a financial model (under the ceteres paribus assumption) that projected significant annual growth and avenues for diversification.
Through this business I was able to generate an aggregate $800k+ in revenue over the past few years, made a pathway for the acceptance of Nigerian food and culture in the United States and beyond and curate amazing experiences for my community. We made a meaningful positive impact on our community and even won some awards too.
My biggest challenges were that in reality, all things were not equal. I am faced with racism and discrimination when it came to leasing, financing and contracting opportunities. The pandemic created a significant shortfall in revenue and several other logistical and operational challenges. The team I tried to build to support my operations were not prepared for how much hard work would go into scaling the business and quit. Our comissary kitchen and inventory were lost in a fire incident (which was not my fault). The rising cost of food, operations and staffing issues in this industry have also become increasingly difficult to navigate.
This business taught me that life is what happens when you are busy making plans. I gave this business my best but I think it’s time to press pause and allow my other talents and intellect to shine.
I am eternally grateful to all of the people that have supported me and Eko Kitchen over the past few years. With you all I built the greatest Nigerian food brand America has ever known and bridged the gap between my two home countries, finally embracing my dual identity as a Nigerian American.
We will still be open (part time) for large catering orders and any scheduled events through the end of the year. We will also have some merch for sale soon if you’d like to rep the brand!
I am in search of roles that will allow me to use my many skills. So if you know someone looking to hire a transformational leader and stellar strategist with a first class honors bachelors degree in economics and a Msc in International and Development Economics , please let me know.
From Simileoluwa Adebajo , with love.
