1. UNDERSTAND THE AGROVET BUSINESS
An agrovet sells farm-related inputs and provides basic advisory services to farmers. Products include:
• Animal feeds and supplements
• Veterinary drugs and vaccines
• Seeds and seedlings
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Farm tools and equipment
Agrovets mainly serve:
• Smallholder farmers
• Livestock keepers
• Poultry and dairy farmers
• Agro-based institutions
2. MARKET RESEARCH
Before starting:
• Identify dominant farming activities in your area (dairy, poultry, crops)
• Find out which products farmers buy most
• Study competitor prices and product range
• Understand seasonal demand (planting and harvesting periods)
3. LEGAL & REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS IN KENYA
You will need:
• Business name registration (eCitizen)
• Single Business Permit (County Government)
• KRA PIN
• PPB (Pest Control Products Board) License – for selling pesticides
• Pharmacy and Poisons Board / Veterinary Directorate approval – for veterinary drugs
• Certificate of good conduct (may be required)
• Employ or partner with a qualified agrovet attendant (certificate or diploma)
⚠️ Licensing is critical in this business.
4. LOCATION & SHOP SETUP
Best locations:
• Near farming areas
• Market centers
• Along busy rural roads
• Close to livestock markets
Shop requirements:
• Secure premises
• Good ventilation
• Shelves and display cabinets
• Lockable cabinets for chemicals
• Clean and organized layout
5. EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Basic requirements:
• Shelving units
• Counter table
• Lockable chemical cabinets
• Refrigerator (for vaccines)
• Fire extinguisher
• Pest control measures
• Record books or POS system
6. PRODUCT SOURCING
Source products from:
• Authorized manufacturers and distributors
• Licensed wholesalers
• Agricultural cooperatives
Tips:
• Stock fast-moving items first
• Avoid overstocking chemicals
• Check expiry dates
• Keep invoices for traceability
7. STAFFING & SKILLS
You will need:
• A trained agrovet attendant
• Basic customer service skills
• Knowledge of animal health and crop protection
Staff should:
• Give correct usage advice
• Follow safety procedures
• Maintain accurate records
8. PRICING & PROFITABILITY
Pricing depends on:
• Cost of goods
• Transport and storage
• Operating costs
Typical margins:
• Veterinary drugs: 15–30%
• Feeds: 5–15%
• Seeds and pesticides: 10–25%
Price competitively while ensuring profit.
9. MARKETING & CUSTOMER GROWTH
Effective strategies:
• Good farmer advisory service
• Clear product labeling
• Loyalty programs for farmers
• Partnerships with cooperatives and SACCOs
• WhatsApp groups for farmer education and promotions
10. DAILY OPERATIONS
• Keep products well organized
• Monitor expiry dates
• Update stock records daily
• Maintain cleanliness and safety
• Ensure proper chemical storage
11. CHALLENGES & RISK MANAGEMENT
Common challenges:
• Fake products → Buy from licensed suppliers
• Expired stock → Rotate stock (FIFO)
• Regulatory inspections → Stay compliant
• Seasonal sales → Diversify product range
12. GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES
As the business grows, you can:
• Add mobile agrovet services
• Offer farmer training clinics
• Supply institutions and large farms
• Open branches in other locations
13. KEY SUCCESS TIPS
• Hire qualified staff
• Follow all regulations
• Build farmer trust
• Stock genuine products
• Keep proper records
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