The rapidly growing and young population in sub-Saharan Africa continues to see the unlocking of its unmet potential, making the region an exciting opportunity for innovations, entrepreneurs and investors.
Euromonitor’s research manager Christy Tawii and Doctor Beate Stiehler-Mulder from the University of Johannesburg discuss the significant role of informal retailing in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the growth of modern channels, informal retail channels continue to reflect the typical shopping habits of a large proportion of consumers across all income groups and are expected to continue to play a vital role in the future. This podcast will help businesses understand how to tap into this important retail sector.
Despite the growth of modern channels, informal retail channels continue to reflect the typical shopping habits of a large proportion of African consumers across all income groups and are expected to continue to play a significant role in the future. Understanding informal retailing channels can assist businesses in developing a regional channel distribution strategy.
With over a billion people, and almost 60% under the age of 25, Africa has a large consumer base that companies want to attract. Regional trends in digital technology are allowing for greater consumer access through knowledge-sharing and payment systems and tools. Capitalising on these opportunities, along with developing a well-developed route-to-market strategy, can provide exciting results for companies in the near- and long-term.
Following the pandemic, economic recovery is starting in sub-Saharan Africa, with new opportunities in restructuring, diversification, and digitalised models reshaping the future of retailing, foodservice, and travel, now and into the future.
Despite difficult financial conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, humanisation and premiumisation are widespread across the region. Historically, dog ownership was very low due, with several reasons making it challenging to own dogs, although this is now changing. The pandemic has forced retailers to up their game in terms of e-commerce and it is expected that this growing shift will continue over the forecast period.