Revitalize Your Footwear with Locally Produced Shoe Polish
This blog explores the business opportunity of making shoe polish in Kenya. Shoe polish is a waxy paste or cream used to polish, shine, waterproof, and restore the appearance of leather and footwear products. It is not only applied to shoes but also to other leather materials like bags. With the prominent type of shoe polish, Kiwi, being imported, local producers have an opportunity to tap into this market. Let’s delve into the production process, market analysis, government incentives, and the availability of machinery and equipment in Kenya.
Production Process: Crafting Quality Shoe Polish
The production process of shoe polish involves several steps:
1. Mixing and Thinning: Molten waxes and other additives are homogenized and thinned with a solvent. The wax is heated at high temperatures, up to 85 degrees Celsius, to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Packaging: The semi-solid shoe polish is packed in round tins, while the liquid polish is packed in plastic bottles with sponge-pasted caps.
3. Dye Addition: Dyes are added and mixed in turpentine oil, if required, to enhance the color of the shoe polish.
4. Cooling and Distribution: The mixed mass is slowly cooled and poured into a cooling chamber, ensuring uniform distribution. The process is straightforward, and the necessary equipment can be easily acquired.
Market Analysis: Meeting the Demand for Quality Shoe Care
Leather footwear is widely used in both rural and urban areas of Kenya. Shoe polish plays a crucial role in improving the life and appearance of footwear, making it an essential product for consumers. By producing good quality shoe polish locally, entrepreneurs can cater to the demand in the market. The key to success will be delivering high-quality products that meet the expectations of buyers.
Government Incentives: Support for Industrial Growth
The Kenyan government provides incentives to industries, including shoe polish manufacturing.This support encourages entrepreneurs to invest in the manufacturing sector and contributes to the growth of local industries.
Source of Machinery: Options for Cost Reduction
Machinery and equipment required for shoe polish production can be easily fabricated in Kenya, reducing costs. While local fabrication is a viable option, importing machinery remains an alternative for entrepreneurs.
Revitalize your footwear with locally produced shoe polish. Enhance the life and appearance of your shoes while supporting local industries. With a growing market, government incentives, and access to machinery, this business venture promises success and the opportunity to meet the demand for quality shoe care in Kenya.
