Wasoko : B2B e-commerce platform for informal retail supply chains

Wasoko is a B2B e-commerce solution built to optimize supply chains for informal retailers in Africa. Designed for small to medium-sized shop owners in urban and peri-urban areas, it allows businesses to order goods through mobile apps or SMS and receive same-day delivery. By offering a wide assortment of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs), flexible credit terms, and reliable logistics, Wasoko empowers informal retail to operate more efficiently, reduce stockouts, and scale sustainably.

What are the main features of Wasoko?

Extensive product catalog for informal retail

Wasoko provides access to a large selection of essential consumer products sourced from leading manufacturers. Retailers can browse and order:

• Beverages, packaged foods, and personal care items
• Household staples from brands like Unilever and P&G
• Inventory tailored to local consumer demand

This breadth ensures that shopkeepers can maintain consistent stock of high-demand items.

Multi-channel ordering through mobile and SMS

To accommodate varying levels of digital access, Wasoko supports ordering through:

• Mobile app: Offers a user-friendly interface for product browsing, order placement, and delivery tracking
• SMS-based ordering: Enables participation by retailers using basic mobile phones with no internet access

This inclusive approach ensures broader reach and usability for shopkeepers.

Same-day delivery logistics network

Wasoko runs its own fulfillment and delivery service, providing:

• Same-day delivery for orders placed during operational hours
• Reliable distribution in dense urban and semi-urban areas
• Reduced stock downtime for retailers

The quick turnaround time allows stores to restock in real-time based on customer demand.

Retailer credit services

Wasoko offers credit options tailored for informal retail businesses, including:

• Deferred payment terms
• Buy-now-pay-later models for frequent customers
• Credit eligibility based on purchase history and repayment behavior

These credit services support cash flow management and inventory growth.

Retail analytics and business insights

The platform aggregates data from purchases to help retailers:

• Understand best-selling products and seasonal trends
• Track purchase frequency and spending patterns
• Improve inventory planning

Data visibility supports better business decisions and customer responsiveness.

Why choose Wasoko?

• Greater product access: Makes a wide range of essential goods accessible even to remote or underserved shopkeepers
• Efficiency gains: Reduces manual procurement tasks and waiting times with digital ordering and fast delivery
• Cash flow flexibility: Retailers can stock up without upfront capital, thanks to credit options
• Adapted for low-tech users: SMS-based ordering keeps the service inclusive for those without smartphones
• Retailer growth support: Insights and logistics capabilities help informal retailers scale sustainably over time