Scottish Vegan Firm To Double The Sales

A Scottish vegan food start-up has more than doubled its sales in two years.

Planet Kuku produces a range of vegan frittatas and supplies many outlets across Scotland, including Lomond Food Group, Margiotta, Real Foods and independent cafes.

A Middle Eastern frittata-style dish known as Kuku is produced using only plant-based ingredients such as chickpeas, flour and Scottish cold-pressed rapeseed oil.

The sales increased from £37,000 in 2017 to £90,000 in the last year and with support from Business Gateway Edinburgh the company has expanded into larger production site at Telferton Industrial Estate in Portobello.

Planet Kuku aims to target more food suppliers and double turnover again to £200,000.

Founders Mat Noniewicz and Maria Janowczyk started making their frittata in their home in 2015 and selling at markets and food events.

In 2017 the pair moved into a shared commercial kitchen, and they took on a full-time member of staff to meet demand. Their new 1800 sq ft facility has the capacity to produce more, and it allows them to target more food suppliers, shops and cafes across Scotland.

 Noniewicz said: “We are delighted with the growth of Planet Kuku, especially over the last year, which is thanks to many organisations who have helped us along the way including Business Gateway Edinburgh.

“Having our own advisor has been instrumental in our ability to expand into new premises and successfully grow the company.

“Every business has a steep learning curve; however, it’s been great for us to have someone at the end of the phone or face-to-face that we can call upon for advice on everything from licenses to growing the team and getting the right premises to marketing the company, which we are very grateful for.”

Susan Harkins, Head of Business Gateway Edinburgh, said: “We are delighted to be able to help Planet Kuku to grow their business. They have carved out a fantastic niche product which is guaranteed to continue to grow and be a huge success.”