How Sendy Supply Is Impacting The Retail Sector

Small and Medium Enterprises have continued to drive Kenya’s growth. Nairobi, which contributes significantly to the country’s GDP, houses a number of these businesses.

From small traders who own minimarts and hardware in Gikomba, Kamukunji, Kariokor, and in the estates to manufacturers along Mombasa Road and in Industrial areas, these businesses have proven to be pillars of the local economy and a solution to the unemployment question.

Despite their obvious contribution to trade and economic development over the years, retailers have faced a number of challenges in their quest to trade effectively. Logistics, financing, and finding a market to source their goods top the list of their concerns.

Ben Okoth, owns a wholesale store in Kariobangi. He has been in business for the last nine years. He acknowledges that logistics is a key challenge for him

“Getting a reliable partner to deliver goods is very expensive, sometimes the goods are even destroyed during transportation. This has been a big problem for us,” he says

When he started his business he had to wait for days to get his stock delivered. This greatly affected his operations and became unsustainable for his business. Today he uses a dedicated transporter who charges for delivery based on the distance and the amount of stock delivered. He says that he still finds this costly and sometimes unreliable.

Technology is changing how players like Ben can trade effectively. Sendy, a technology company that builds a fulfillment infrastructure for e-commerce and consumer goods are spearheading this cause. Through their platform, Sendy Supply they are enabling retailers to source goods directly from different manufacturers in real-time using an app.

“The inspiration behind Sendy supply was to provide a marketplace for retailers and manufacturers. We wanted to assist them to process their payments, provide financing to allow retailers to restock in time as well as ensure a seamless order fulfillment through our logistics support. As a result, we are enabling businesses to trade seamlessly and effectively,” said Don Okoth, General Manager of Sendy Supply East Africa.

The thriving tech company facilitates trade among retailers and manufacturers of consumer brands by creating a digital marketplace. This offers variety for the retailers as they can buy goods from different suppliers. They also provide free transport thereby relieving the headache of logistics.

Ndung’u Muigai owns a Wholesale in Umoja. He began working with Sendy last year. He confirms that he has noticed a difference in his business ever since he started working with Sendy. The impact has been visible.

“Through Sendy, I can now choose from a variety of different suppliers who offer competitive rates on products. I no longer have to worry about transport as they deliver on time. This was a major challenge as it would sometimes take up to two weeks before getting goods delivered,” he says.

Sendy is currently working with over 10,000 businesses, manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, hardware owners, and even liquor stores.

Retailers can also secure financing for their goods through Buy Now Pay Later, a lending scheme offered by Sendy to enable them to restock their stores in time and payback later.

Sendy Supply has allowed manufacturers to connect directly to retailers. It has also enabled retailers to overcome a number of their challenges, especially with logistics, financing, and finding a reliable market where they can get their supplies at competitive rates. The solution has positively impacted the retail space in the country.