Mr. Emeka Ike, is the MD, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, MP Masterpiece Limited, an indigenous company that uses local content for the production of spirit and wine in the beverage industry. In this interview with Nosike Moses during the unveiling of the company’s latest product, 4 Round Bitters, Mr Ike revealed that his products’ success in the market is based on thorough research.

Excerpt:

Despite the challenges of local producers in Nigeria, you have consistently remained in production, 4 Round Bitters is a new product, what is your propelling factor?

We just unveiled our latest product, 4 Rounds Bitters with the signing of Nigerian Nollywood stars, Femi Adebayo, Destiny Etiko and Zubby Michael. So, after our market research, we found that our targeted Nigerian consumers need quality bitters that are made from pure herbs. And you know most of our African herbs are medicinal. So, we produce based on the demands of the market to give consumers what can quench their thirst, in terms of bitters. 4 Rounds Bitters is a very high quality product made from selected ingredients.

We are in Nigeria because Nigeria is my country and I believe in made in Nigeria products, that is why I’m investing in my country. Again, as my company is producing in the country, we are creating job opportunities and contributing to economic growth, GDP of Nigeria. We are at the same reducing crime in the society as we engage people to work, especially the youths. MP Masterpiece Nigeria Limited is a beverage and alcoholic company. I’m not regretting producing in my country despite environmental challenges. We are planning to introduce more other products in the future.

Which areas do you think the government can help local producers?

We are asking the federal government to stabilize the dollar. We need good roads and electricity. Local producers need tax rebates, and the government should work on the inflation rate which is high. When an enabling environment is created by the government, it will not only promote local investment, it will also attract foreign investment and more jobs will be created etc.

How competitive is your product in the market, and your secret?

Well, the secret is all about quality ingredients. We use local content to produce quality products in the country. And our product is competitive in the market despite the challenges we face as local producers. Again, we take time, spend most time to do research before launching any product into the Nigerian spirit and beverage market. During our research, we discover what our Nigerian consumers need.