Kenyan eCommerce startup, Copia Global, has announced the expansion of its services to neighboring Uganda after successfully establishing its presence in the Kenyan market, where it claims to serve over one million customers.
Copia Global is different from most eCommerce platforms, rather than depending on a website, it uses a network of agents spread across Kenya. When customers need an item, they visit an agent with a digital device to place their order.
After their order is placed, the agent sends it to Copia Global, who processes and delivers it within two days when the customer returns to pick it up. This model allows the company to serve people who do not own digital devices or cannot access the Internet since it is built on USSD technology.
Despite 47pc of the population owning mobile subscriptions in Uganda, only 12 million Ugandans use the Internet according to a report. The model might just be what the country needs.
“Uganda has one of the fastest-growing middle classes in the world with a hardworking population and a dynamic entrepreneurial culture. Copia is designed specifically to serve this high growth but underserved consumer base who want access to high-quality products at the best prices.” Founder and Chairman, Tracey Turner says.
According to Crunchbase, the startup has raised $53 million in funding from investors, including LGT Lightstone, Endeavor Catalyst, and Goodwell Investments.
