Ghanaian retail-tech startup Tendo Technologies has announced its strategic acquisition of fellow Ghanaian company Shopa in a cash-and-stock deal aimed at revolutionizing supply chain infrastructure across Africa.
Founded in 2021, Tendo enables individuals to launch and grow online businesses without initial capital by connecting them with suppliers. The platform boasts a robust network of over 10,000 retail resellers in Ghana and Nigeria, reaching more than 42,000 customers with a diverse range of products including fashion, beauty, electronics, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).
Shopa, also established in 2021, specializes in optimizing FMCG distribution through its technology platform that connects retailers directly with suppliers and manufacturers. With a network of over 3,000 retailers in Ghana and advanced operational systems, Shopa has significantly improved stocking efficiencies and profitability for small shop owners and large retailers alike.
As part of the acquisition, Shopa will rebrand to Tendo Retail, a newly formed division of Tendo focused on providing informal distributors in Africa with advanced technology to scale their businesses. Shopa’s CEO and co-founder, Frank Addae, will head this new division, bringing his extensive experience in digitizing informal retail supply chains to the role.
The integration aims to leverage Shopa’s large network of offline distributors to connect with Tendo’s online retailers, helping to expand product offerings and widen opportunities for entrepreneurs. With FMCG already contributing over 30% to Tendo’s current volume and continuously growing, the partnership will enhance Tendo’s offering and ensure a consistent supply for its resellers.
Both Tendo and Shopa have previously received funding and support from the Catalyst Fund Inclusive Digital Commerce Accelerator, highlighting the success of accelerator-supported ventures in Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem.
This acquisition marks a significant step in Tendo’s mission to make supply chains seamlessly accessible, empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs across Africa to start and scale their ventures without traditional barriers.
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