Home-based food business booms among women

MULTAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Apr, 2026) The home-based food industry is rapidly emerging as a structured sector across urban areas of south Punjab, including Multan, with hundreds of women earning substantial incomes through digital platforms.

Social activist Tahira Najam while talking to APP stated that over 500 women in Multan alone were currently engaged in home-based food businesses, a number that continues to grow steadily.

Demand for homemade meals has surged by 30 to 40 percent over the past two years, driven by consumers’ preference for hygienic, fresh, and healthier food options. Office workers, students, hostel residents, and individuals living alone are among the Primary customers benefiting from these services.

Entrepreneur Ayesha Khan shared that she started her venture in 2022 with an initial investment of Rs10,000, which has now grown into a stable business. She receives 15 to 25 orders daily, earning a monthly income between Rs60,000 and Rs80,000. She credited social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram for expanding her customer base.

Similarly, Zainab Ali, who joined the sector a year ago, said rising inflation had made it difficult to manage household expenses. However, her home-based food business now generates Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000 per month through 10 to 15 daily orders, enabling her financial independence, she shared with pride.

Economist Jarrar Rizvi added that home-based businesses in Pakistan are expanding rapidly, with the food sector gaining particular prominence. He said digitalization, online payments, and social media marketing have made it a low-cost, high-return business model.

Despite its growth, the sector faces several challenges, including lack of an organized delivery system, rising raw material costs, and increasing competition.

Chef Sajida Khalil emphasized that government support through formal registration, training, easy loans, and access to digital platforms could further strengthen the sector, enhance women’s economic empowerment, and create additional employment opportunities at the local level.