Kenyan retailers and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies reported a surge in sales as panic buying took hold across major towns amid the fear of closures as Covix-19 cases were reported.
The recent rise in Covid-19 cases has impacted retail consumption as people avoid crowded areas, especially food and beverage, entertainment centers and shopping malls.
However, some are coming up with novel ideas to ensure their consumers can buy their goods.
Tusker Mattresses Limited (TML), the country’s second-largest retailer, has come to the rescue of its consumers by partnering with Sendy, a Kenyan startup which operates an app linking delivery drivers with customers, for home deliveries to curtail the spread of the Corona Virus in line with the government’s directive.
Through the partnership, they will execute the ‘Stay in, shop safe’ campaign.
“Tuskys will do home deliveries, to support efforts to check the spread of Corona. Ridiculously simple process” says Dan Githua, Chief executive Officer Tuskys Supermarket.
“Available on Short Text Messages (SMS), email, WhatsApp, telephone.”
https://twitter.com/DanGithua/status/1239628266765529088?s=20
The move will see Tuskys customers make purchases of groceries from the comfort of their homes and have them delivered to their doorsteps, hence avoiding the crowded areas.
The retailer says this is in line with its growth strategy.
TML and Quickmart Supermarket noted that they had witnessed a surge of shoppers at its stores but confirmed it would continue stocking general supermarket merchandise.
“We have engaged with our suppliers and received firm commitments that we shall continue receiving the necessary supplies at the standard prices,” according to Tusky’s statement.
“In light of the current situation in the country surrounding the confirmation of a COVID19 (Novel Corona Virus) case, we understand the anxiety that our customers are experiencing. We have worked diligently with all our suppliers to ensure that there is no scarcity of items that are deemed essential at this time,” a statement from Quickmart’s CEO Peter Kang’iri.
“We remain open for business and welcome all of you to enjoy our vast retail and lifestyle offering and at the same time we are wishing you and your loved one’s good health, Two River Lifestyle Center Management said in a public notice.
The Competition Authority of Kenya has warned businesses against hiking prices. Parties found culpable of either of the acts will attract a penalty of up to ten per cent of their respective turnover.
The Kenya Private Sector Alliance released a report which showed that 61 per cent of businesses have felt the impact of the Covid-19 on their operations.
