Former Jumia Kenya figureheads have formally launched a new e-commerce platform dubbed, Kapu that will help consumers cut spending on their everyday groceries.
Kapu’s model is designed to allow customers to buy products in the quantities they want, offering a larger range than a kiosk.
The platform will offer a variety of products, including quality fresh produce from Kenyan farms, at wholesale prices.
Goods will then be delivered for free the next day to an Agent collection centre near their homes.
“We think it’s unfair that consumers in Kenya spend 40 per cent of their income on food, when Americans spend 6 per cent. This is a huge blocker to social mobility. Our goal at Kapu is to build the most relevant model of e-commerce for the majority of urban consumers in Africa,” Kapu CEO Sam Chappatte.
Kapu’s model relies on reducing the cost burden on consumers by sourcing products directly from manufacturers and farms.
With a large range, buyers get to choose what they need in the quantity that suits their pockets.
Customers can access lower prices through the platform if they place the order as a group.
“By working with existing community groups and local entrepreneurs, we believe we can play a part in reducing the costs of goods, and unlocking opportunities for millions of people,” Sam Chappatte.
Kapu agents include mama mbogas, salons, and individuals such as stay-at-home-mums and students, who are able to earn an extra income – whilst helping their communities save more.
Customers who want to try the service can dial *789*8# to register and get KES 50 cash back on their first order. Once registered, they can place an order with a KAPU-branded agent in their neighbourhood.
