At the current pace, there's no denying the improved fortune of ecommerce in Africa. Even the most hardent doubters of ecommerce viability on the continent will accept that the online shopping business is gaining momentum on the continent, contrary to their forecast and expectations.
Major African markets like Nigeria and Kenya are improving their internet penetration while the number of mobile phone users is rising exponentially. This, in turn, is boosting the online market entrants in urban locations and gradually rubbing off on rural settlements.
As a result, the conversation around ecommerce in a major market like Nigeria has gravitated from doubts on feasibility and acceptance, to quality of service delivery, customers expectations and satisfaction. With at least 87 ecommerce platforms in Nigeria, the online shopping community is increasing by the day with innovation and bespoke approaches to address the challenges of the market and meet customers expectations.
In the thick of this, some customers are already having a glimpse of what ecommerce offers at its peak, thanks to the effort of key market players. Iteshi Prince Izuchukwu, a businessman based in Rivers State said he likes shopping online because of the price slash.
“Based on his experience with several online shopping platforms, he was quick to acknowledge the extra effort of Africa's market leader on its quality of service delivery. "Things I order include Television, Wristwatches and others. When I buy these items on Jumia, they deliver on time and in good condition," he stated.
In today's market where customers demand value for every penny spent, a well thought out packaging that meets the aesthetic taste of the customers can spell a huge impact on the ecommerce business.
“It can help reduce the volume and cost of return, foster customer loyalty and put the brand in the face of prospects. "I always feel happy when what I ordered is being delivered to me. And as a businessman, I want value for money which I can say I am getting on a platform like Jumia," Izuchukwu said.
With continuous effort by ecommerce brands to meet customers’ quality, timely and packaging expectations in their service delivery, testimonials like this will go a long way in getting more people onboard the online shopping train.
