Unlocking Africa's Informal Markets: How Lengo AI Revolutionizes Retail Visibility

In the vast and dynamic landscape of Africa's informal retail sector, visibility and data-driven insights have long been elusive for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies. This challenge is being addressed by Lengo AI, a pioneering startup based in Dakar, Senegal. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and real-time data, Lengo AI is transforming how FMCG brands and retailers operate in Africa's informal markets.

The Challenge of Informal Markets

Informal markets in Africa account for a staggering 90% of retail purchases across the continent. However, these markets have traditionally been opaque, making it difficult for FMCG companies to understand consumer behavior, track product sales, and optimize distribution. This lack of visibility hinders effective market penetration and expansion.

Lengo AIs Innovative Solution

Lengo AI tackles this challenge with a unique hybrid approach that combines Lengo Eagles—field agents who gather data from corner shops—and AI technology. This blend allows the company to provide real-time performance data on product sales, bridging the gap between retailers and FMCG companies. Here's how Lengo AI's solution works:

• Real-Time Market Monitoring: Lengo AI offers near real-time monitoring for over 2,000 products, providing FMCG companies with actionable insights into market trends and consumer preferences.
• Geomapping Solution: The company's AI-powered geomapping has mapped over 30,000 traditional store locations, helping brands uncover new market opportunities at a fraction of the cost.
• Lengo Club: This platform empowers shopkeepers by offering insights into customer behavior, alerts about new products, and a loyalty point system, thereby increasing their revenues.

Optimizing Operations and Expanding Reach

Lengo AI's data-driven insights enable FMCG companies to optimize their operations in several ways:

• Distribution Optimization: By understanding where products are selling well, companies can refine their distribution strategies, ensuring that products reach the right markets efficiently.
• Market Expansion: With precise data on consumer behavior and market trends, FMCG brands can identify new opportunities for growth and expansion across Africa.
• Competitive Advantage: Lengo AI's insights help brands outperform competitors by making informed decisions about product placement, pricing, and marketing.

Expanding Across Africa

Following a successful pre-seed funding round led by Acasia Ventures and Ventures Platform, Lengo AI is poised to expand its operations into new African markets. The company has already made significant strides in Nigeria and plans to enter other key markets like Egypt. This expansion will further enhance its ability to provide comprehensive market insights across the continent.

Conclusion

Lengo AI is at the forefront of a retail revolution in Africa, leveraging AI and real-time data to illuminate the informal market landscape. By bridging the visibility gap, Lengo AI empowers FMCG companies and retailers to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and expand their reach in Africa's vibrant retail ecosystem. As the African market continues to grow, Lengo AI's innovative approach positions it as a key player in unlocking the continent's vast retail potential.