Lekker's story
Founded in 2016 by Gijs Opbroek, a Dutch national with a background in renewable energy, Lekker was born from a deep love for food, particularly cheese and wine. His experience volunteering at local organic markets ignited the spark, leading him to forge partnerships with local cheese-makers. This collaboration resulted in the production and marketing of high-quality Kenyan Gouda, crafted from the milk of Friesian cows. Lekker's signature cheese quickly gained popularity, finding its way onto the menus of top restaurants, select green grocers, and high-end hotels across Kenya and East Africa.
Recognizing a gap in the market for quality wines, he and a friend embarked on a parallel venture, establishing a premium wine import business. Lekker became the first retailer of world-class wines imported by De Vries Africa Ventures, introducing Kenyan consumers to a wider range of exceptional vintages. This venture complemented Lekker's cheese offerings perfectly, creating a natural synergy between the two.
The Lekker online shop, an embodiment of Lekker's culinary passions, serves as a hub for fine food and drink enthusiasts. The online store stocks a carefully curated selection of gourmet products, showcasing both Kenyan craftsmanship and international flavors. Beyond their renowned Kenyan Gouda, Lekker also imports a diverse range of high-quality cheeses from Europe, providing customers with an even broader spectrum of tastes and textures. Alongside these cheeses and wines, customers can find gourmet delicacies, and other specialty items, making Lekker a one-stop destination for those seeking exceptional culinary experiences.
Furthering their commitment to providing a complete culinary experience, Lekker has also ventured into the craft beer scene. This latest endeavor brings a carefully selected range of craft beers to their customers, complementing their existing wine and cheese offerings and catering to a wider range of palates.
Lekker's commitment to providing high-quality food experiences took a significant leap forward in 2023 with the acquisition of Lime Catering, a well-established, high-end catering company. This strategic move broadened Lekker's portfolio significantly. The acquisition brought with it expanded capabilities, including corporate catering services, a food truck for events, and a renewed focus on creating fresh, locally sourced meals. By incorporating Lime Catering's expertise and infrastructure, Lekker solidified its position as a leading provider of premium food experiences in Kenya, catering to a diverse range of needs, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate events.
In short, Lekker's journey reflects a commitment to quality, a celebration of local produce, and a passion for bringing exceptional food and drink to the Kenyan market. From its humble beginnings at local markets to its current status as a multi-faceted food and beverage company, encompassing cheese production, wine importation, retail sales, craft beer offerings, and catering services, Lekker Enterprises continues to evolve, driven by a dedication to culinary excellence and a desire to share the best the world has to offer.