Norland International Uganda marked its seventh anniversary on Saturday with a high-energy celebration that blended recognition, business ambition and a renewed push into the country's wellness market.
Held at the UMA Show Grounds in Lugogo, the event drew investors, distributors, and entrepreneurs, all keen to witness the company's next move, the official launch of its Vmax 365 Tea and Coffee Shops franchise.
The anniversary doubled as both a celebration of growth and a statement of intent.
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Speaking at the event, Norland International President Mr Johnny Chen said the company has grown steadily since entering Uganda in 2019, despite early logistical hurdles.
"Every business faces challenges at the beginning. For us, it was stock availability, product registration and distribution, especially with goods coming from China," he said.
"But over time, we have understood the market better, and these challenges are now minimal."
Mr Chen said Norland's model goes beyond product sales, positioning itself as a network-driven business that shares profits with its distributors through commissions and bonuses.
"In the past seven years, thousands of partners have earned consistently. It is not only about us as a company, but about the families that depend on this business," he added.
The highlight of the day was the unveiling of the Vmax 365 Tea and Coffee Shops franchise, a new venture the company says will open doors for Ugandan entrepreneurs.
The model allows individuals to own and operate branded outlets offering tea, coffee, smoothies and wellness drinks infused with health-focused formulas.
Mr Chen said the concept combines affordability with health-conscious consumption.
"Our products are priced at about 60 per cent of similar items on the market, and the investment required is also lower. We are offering good taste, good health and good price," he said.
Founder of Norland East and Central Africa, Ms Maclyn Musiime Itazya, traced the company's journey from a modest start in her Muyenga home to a regional player with expansion ambitions.
"I started this journey seven years ago after leaving corporate life and moving into private business. Today, we are launching a franchise model that stands independently from network marketing," she said.
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Ms Musiime emphasised that the new venture mirrors global franchise systems and is designed to create sustainable business opportunities.
She also revealed plans to establish a manufacturing hub in East Africa within the next five years, aimed at producing everyday wellness products locally.
"The future is in localisation. We want to partner with Ugandan manufacturers and build capacity within the region," she said.
The event also featured personal testimonies from distributors, including Ms Agnes Kansiime, who credited the company's products and business model for transforming her life.
She recounted her struggle with illness and how joining Norland not only improved her health but also provided a source of income.
"After recovery, I embraced the business. Today, I travel and earn through helping others access these products," she said.
Saturday's celebration also honoured top-performing distributors with incentives, including travel rewards and other prizes, underscoring the company's emphasis on recognition.
As Norland enters its eighth year in Uganda, the organisers said its focus is set on scaling its footprint through franchising, while maintaining its core promise of combining wellness with income generation.
