Nigerian e-commerce site Jumia has won The Best Retail Launch of the Year at the World Retail Congress in Paris, becoming the first African company to take home this prestigious award.
The event is run by the publishing company EMAP and discusses issues affecting the international retail industry; covering core retail in all segments issues as well as social, economic, political and ethical concern. Previous winners include top brands such as ASOS, Migros, NikeTown, Woolworths or Zappos.com.
Jumia offers products online, via a mobile app or on cash delivery spots – leapfrogging traditional retail in Africa.
“We are delighted with the wide international reach of this year’s winners and that for the first time, we are presenting an award to an African retailer,” says Ian McGarrigle, chairman of the World Retail Congress.
According to World Retail Congress’s jury, Jumia sets the highest benchmark when it comes to retailing in Africa.
Jeremy Hodara, co-founder of JUMIA, comments: “This is a historic moment to us and I hope, also for the whole of Africa. When we started JUMIA last year we had the goal to enable safe, convenient and stress-free shopping experiences in Nigeria. Now one year later, we deliver products to hundred thousands of customers in over six countries every day. This award makes us incredibly proud and reinforces us in what we do.”