Tendo Technologies, an online retail software platform in Ghana, has acquired Shopa, a Ghanaian provider of comprehensive commerce solutions for informal retailers across Ghana in a cash and stock options to redefine the supply chain landscape in Africa.
Tendo will leverage Shopa’s large network of offline distributors, predominantly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) space to connect with its online retailers, help to expand its product offerings and widening opportunities for entrepreneurs.
According to Chief Executive Officer of Tendo, Felix Manford, “We are excited to have Shopa, an integral provider of technology infrastructure for the informal supply chain in Africa, as part of Tendo Technologies. Our vision at Tendo is to help entrepreneurs and small businesses start and scale their businesses by making supply chains seamlessly accessible.”
Manford says the deal will advance Tendo’s distribution technology and expand its wide network of suppliers to deliver unprecedented value to both their offline and online retailers.
With FMCG already contributing over 30% to Tendo’s current volume and continuously growing, Tendo will enhance its offering and ensure a consistent supply for its resellers. This partnership will also empower FMCG distributors in Africa who have been largely offline to seamlessly unlock new online channels through Tendo’s network of over ten thousand online resellers.
As part of the acquisition, Shopa will also be rebranded to Tendo Retail, a newly formed division under Tendo which focuses on providing informal distributors in Africa with advanced technology to scale their businesses. Shopa’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Founder Frank Addae will head this new division with his extensive experience in digitizing informal retail supply chains. The technologies of the two entities will also be merged to provide a unified experience for users.
The CEO of Shopa further commented: “We are excited to join the Tendo team, an innovative social commerce platform empowering online entrepreneurs in Africa. This partnership will enable us to access Tendo’s resources and capabilities, strengthening our value proposition to suppliers and manufacturers in Africa. Our expanded offerings will include greater opportunities for suppliers to unlock new retail channels and access diverse online and offline markets to scale their businesses.Together, with our shared vision and values, Tendo and Shopa will take the informal retail space in Africa to new heights. ”