Kenyan Craft Beverage Maker Attracts $1 Million Investment

Kenyan craft beverage maker African Originals has received $1 million (Ksh130 million) in fresh funding from Phoenix Beverages Ltd (PBL), the Mauritian drinks company that invested in the business two years ago. The capital will be used to upgrade production facilities, expand distribution networks, and accelerate product innovation across the company’s portfolio of ciders, spirits, and ready-to-drink cocktails. CEO Alexandra Chappatte said the investment supports the company’s goal of scaling from Kenya’s leading craft beverage producer into East Africa’s first multi-category beverage platform.

The additional funding comes amid strong growth for African Originals, which reported more than 50 percent year-on-year revenue growth by targeting younger consumers seeking locally made drinks that balance quality and affordability. The Kenyan Originals range sources fruits and botanicals from local farmers and small processors, maintaining a sustainable supply chain that the company plans to preserve as it expands regionally. PBL’s stake remains unchanged, but the funding deepens operational support as competition in Kenya’s premium beverage sector intensifies.

African Originals’ expansion aligns with a broader investor trend toward physical consumer products, a sector that has traditionally received less attention compared to tech-driven startups. The company plans to roll out its products more broadly across Kenya over the next year, targeting both modern retail and on-trade channels. Observers say the partnership demonstrates how patient capital and strong local branding can enable homegrown beverage companies to compete with global players.