Abstract:
Innovation strategies play a critical role in enhancing the competitiveness and financial
performance of businesses, particularly in the food and beverage business. Thika is known for its
vast food and beverage sector and this study can provide valuable insight for business owners or
individuals seeking to venture into the food and beverage industry. This research paper
investigated the dynamic relationship between innovation strategies and the financial performance
of food and beverage businesses in Thika. It aimed to evaluate the effect of new production
processes on the financial performance of food and beverage businesses, to analyze the impact of
market diversification on the financial performance of these businesses and to analyze the impact
of adoption of the state of art food processing technology and use of ARTIFICIAL
INTELLIGENCE[AI] on the financial performance of food and beverage businesses in Thika. It
focussed on three key dimensions of innovation: Product Innovation, Market Innovation, and
Process Innovation. This study employed a qualitative approach, using qualitative insights from
interviews and surveys from the important industry stakeholders. The research assessed the
adoption and implementation of innovation strategies like product innovation, process innovation
and market innovation from a sample of food and beverage businesses in Thika. The findings from
existing research articles indicate a positive correlation between the innovation strategies and the
financial performance of food and beverage businesses in other areas both locally and globally,
for businesses that prioritize innovation leading to higher profitability and creating room for
growth and expansion. This research furthermore identified the barriers, giving light to the
challenges these businesses face in pursuing innovation initiatives. It also offers a practical
recommendation for businesses seeking an improvement in their financial performance through
various innovation strategies. This study concluded that food and beverage businesses in Thika
should prioritize innovation as a strategic tool to navigate market challenges and drive financial
success.