Back in 2012 when it first launched, Jumia’s long-term goal was to become the leading e-commerce player on the continent. It set about that objective like typical e-commerce platforms do: acquiring vast inventory, building warehouses, and aiming to drive online sales based on the promise of ease and convenience. Indeed, one of the company’s first steps was to hire account managers in charge of growing its inventory base across a diverse range of categories, from mobile phones and electronics to fashion, beauty and childcare. If customers wanted to buy it, Jumia—often referred to as the Amazon of Africa—wanted to be able to sell it. It was similar to the way Amazon itself started first with books and CDs and then eventually an Amazon of nearly everything.
SOURCE: QUARTZ AFRICA
More Stories
Nationalising Rabat’s State Entities
When One Trial Ends Another Opens for South Africa’s Former President
China Follows DRC’s Lead on Mining Regulations
Namibian Protesters Call for Talks Before Accepting Berlin’s Deal
Nigeria has been Grappling with a Growing Drug Problem
Kigali Snubs Belgium Over Jailed Hotelier
How African States Can Take Advantage of the Growing Demand of Cashews
Proceeds from Seized Assets to Fund Malabo’s Vaccination Programme
Khartoum’s Transition Rocked by Coup Attempt
What a ‘Day of Peace’ Looks Like in Nigeria
Richard Branson’s Oasis in Morocco Gets Top Prize
The UK Keeps South Africa on its Red List for Travel