Author: Mike Smollan

Around the developing world, informal retail continues to be a powerful social force, employing millions of people who might otherwise not have jobs, driving economic activity in spaces that formal business has not penetrated, and providing essential goods and services for the under-served. Giving this sector a deep knowledge of their market – enabling them to stock preferred brands and products, and even offer credit to loyal customers. In Africa, this sector is remarkably resilient, showing adaptability and innovation by adopting new tools and ways of doing business – seen for example in the uptake of mobile internet and other…