Africa's beverages industry

For investors, understanding the nuances of beverage distribution in Africa is critical in establishing a solid market presence.
Increasingly, digital platforms are offering extensive beverage selections that are convenient and cater to busy urban lifestyles.
For the traditional markets, hygiene, quality control, and infrastructure remain the most common stumbling blocks.

The vibrant culture in Africa’s beverages industry is evolving at pace. On the one hand, this culture offers a broader selection of drinks that cater to new shopping behaviours. Conversely, Africa’s beverage industry culture opens up exciting opportunities for local producers and beverage entrepreneurs. At the same time, multinational beverage companies are looking to tap into this diverse marketplace.

Smollan, as a representative of some of the world’s most beloved FMCG and commerce brands, delves into the various distribution channels for Africa’s beverages industry. This exploration touches upon various challenges and opportunities that keep the industry promising.

Beverage distribution in Africa

As retailers explore the intricacies of beverage distribution in Africa, this space has experienced significant changes and growth in recent years. To give one a sense of direction, if one looks purely at the alcoholic drinks market in Africa, according to Statista, revenue is set to amount to $93.24 billion in 2023. It is expected to grow annually by 7.32 per cent between 2023 and 2027.

Leading up to this, the most notable shifts have been seen in the rise of modern retail formats. Increasingly, supermarkets and convenience stores have become popular in urban areas. These retailers offer a wide range of beverage options.

In their offering, they stock both local and international brands to meet the tastes of a diverse consumer base. So, too, e-commerce has taken off, gaining traction in Africa’s beverages industry. It enables shoppers to order beverages online, benefiting areas with limited access to physical stores.

Furthermore, there has been a rise in specialised beverage stores. These stores and cafes focus on specific types of drinks. Across towns and cities, coffee shops offering artisanal brews or traditional teas are common. For retailers in Africa’s beverages industry, it’s all about connecting with customers in new ways. Retail brands create unique experiences where enthusiasts can explore different tastes and sensory pleasures. At the same time, these cafes are helping customers to appreciate different beverage cultures.

So, how do these new moves to quench a thirst in Africa relate to distribution and the supply chain? What are some of the opportunities and challenges faced within this fast-evolving space?

Fragmented networks in Africa’s beverages industry

Warren Brett, Cluster Executive, SEA Region, Smollan, said, “First and foremost, kudos must go to the wholesalers and distributors, who are the amazing unsung heroes of beverage distribution in Africa. Intermediaries are responsible for doing the job well within fragmented retail networks and complex marketplaces. Working with infrastructure issues, logistics, inadequate cold chain facilities, and red tape, they enable and unlock exciting opportunities for growth in this sector.”

Within this unique and, at times, fragile Africa’s beverages industry context, understanding the nuances of distribution channels is key to unlocking growth and establishing a solid market presence.

Traditional and modern distribution channels

These markets play a vital role, especially in regions with limited access to modern retail outlets. The variety at roadside vendors and in village marketplaces, in most instances, can be eye-opening. They offer locally produced drinks such as palm wine, sorghum beer, bottled water, soft drinks, and alcohol. Here, smaller-scale entrepreneurs compete alongside more established multinational brands, making these markets a significant part of the informal economy.

Across Africa, supermarkets and hypermarkets have grown significantly. This is primarily due to urbanisation and evolving customer preferences. These urban retail powerhouses have become a fixture in large cities. They offer a broad selection that includes soft drinks, bottled water, fruit juices, alcohol, plus premium imported brands.

Overall, these outlets are key for global brands to reach consumers. In addition, the convenience of air-conditioned shopping spaces, a guarantee of quality, and multiple payment options make for an attractive shopping experience.

Digital distribution channels

E-commerce and mobile commerce are gaining traction in Africa. This is primarily due to increasing access to the internet and the adoption of smartphones. As a result, digital platforms offer extensive product selections that are convenient and cater to busy urban lifestyles.

Local retailers and manufacturers are striking partnerships with online marketplaces. Their goal is to offer fast, reliable delivery services to consumers. What’s more, digital channels

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are giving payment options from mobile money to credit and debit cards and cash on delivery.

Challenges that become opportunities

Currently, global beverage brands and local and regional producers are making significant inroads across Africa. They are deploying a blend of distribution channels to connect with consumers. Furthermore, local players are often keen to invest in local production to create an advantage in price and route to market.

Overcoming the challenges to leverage penetration is vital to success. For the traditional markets, hygiene, quality control and infrastructure are the most common stumbling blocks. The growth of modern distribution channels has led to increased competition among beverage brands. This is increasingly making price sensitivity a critical factor in purchasing decisions.

In addition to this, e-commerce platforms must navigate challenges like logistics and infrastructure constraints. They must also address trust-related concerns, particularly regarding payments, delivery, and accessibility.