Sooyah Bistro, a fast-growing Nigerian fast-casual chain, continues to expand despite Nigeria’s economic challenges.
The firm recently opened its 12th branch in Yaba, Lagos, marking a significant milestone in its growth journey.
Speaking at the Yaba branch opening, the founder of Sooyah Bistro, Olamidun Ogundoyin, emphasised Yaba’s strategic importance, stating, “Yaba is a thriving locality in Lagos. We have been eyeing this location for years, and it’s an essential addition to our portfolio,” she said. The chain’s other locations span Lagos Island, the mainland, and Ibadan in Oyo State.
Despite economic upheaval, including the Nigerian currency’s depreciation by over 70 per cent in the past year, Ogundoyin credits strategic planning and innovation with the company’s resilience.
“Businesses need to grow dramatically to survive. We have increased revenue, staff, and customer orders while expanding branches, proving that creativity and innovation are essential to staying competitive,” she stated.
Ogundoyin also highlighted challenges as a woman entrepreneur in Nigeria’s male-dominated business landscape. “As a woman, you have to work twice as hard to gain the same recognition or success,” she said.
She said that the firm’s story is a true testament to perseverance and revealed that the business began with less than N20,000, operating modestly from a supermarket where she sold suya to customers. The company’s growth was bootstrapped, relying on reinvesting sales into inventory and operations.
She also highlighted challenges as a woman entrepreneur in Nigeria’s male-dominated business landscape. “As a woman, you have to work twice as hard to gain the same recognition or success,” she said.
Ogundoyin reiterated that the firm’s commitment to maintaining quality and hygiene across all outlets has also been a driving factor, with rigorous staff training and quality control systems in place.
“Today, Suya Bistro stands as a Nigerian success story, combining tradition, innovation, and resilience to achieve impressive growth. With Yaba now on the map, the company looks poised for even greater expansion in the future,” she added.