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Quenching a Thirst – Beverages in Africa

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FMCG

Smollan representing some of the world’s most loved FMCG and commerce brands dips into the types of distribution channels for beverages in Africa

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, November 2, 2023/APO Group/ — 

Africa has a vibrant beverage culture that is evolving at pace. On the one hand, offering a wider selection of drinks that cater to new shopping behaviours, and on the other opening up exciting opportunities for local producers, entrepreneurs, and multinational beverage companies looking to tap into this diverse marketplace.

Smollan representing some of the world’s most loved FMCG and commerce brands dips into the types of distribution channels for beverages in Africa, and a few of the challenges and opportunities that keeps the industry on its toes.

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 US$93.24bn in 2023 and expected to grow annually by 7.32% between 2023 and 2027.

Leading up to this, the most notable shifts have been seen in the rise of modern retail formats, such as supermarkets and convenience stores, which have become increasingly popular in urban areas. These retailers offer a wide range of beverage options, including both local and international brands to meet the demands of a diverse consumer base. So too, ecommerce has taken off gaining traction in Africa, enabling shoppers to order beverages online especially beneficial in areas with limited access to physical stores.

Furthermore, there has been a rise in specialised beverage stores and cafes that focus on specific types of drinks from coffee shops offering artisanal brews or traditional teas. It’s all about connecting with customers in new ways by creating unique experiences where enthusiasts can explore different tastes and sensory pleasures and appreciate different beverage cultures.

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

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 responsible for getting the job done well within the context of fragmented retails 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 at times fragile African context understanding the nuances of distribution channels is key to unlocking growth and establishing a strong market presence.

Working with infrastructure issues, logistics, inadequate cold chain facilities and red tape, they enable and unlock exciting opportunities for growth in this sector

DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS

Traditional

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 – offering locally produced drinks such as palm wine and sorghum beer to bottled water, soft drinks, and alcohol. Where smaller-scale entrepreneurs compete alongside more established multinational brands, making these markets a significant part of the informal economy.

Modern

Supermarkets and hypermarkets have grown significantly, primarily due to urbanisation and evolving customer preferences. These urban retail powerhouses have become a fixture in large cities offering a broad selection that includes soft drinks, bottled water, fruit juices and alcohol plus, premium imported brands. Making these outlets key for global brands to reach consumers. In addition, the convenience of air-conditioned shopping spaces, a guarantee of quality and multiple payment options makes for an attractive shopping experience.

Digital

As access to the internet improves and smartphone penetration grows on the daily, ecommerce and mobile commerce are gaining traction in Africa. These digital platforms offer extensive product selections that are convenient and cater to busy urban lifestyles. Local retails and manufacturers partner with online marketplaces and delivery services to offer fast, reliable fulfilment for consumers plus, payment options from mobile money to credit and debit cards and cash on delivery.

CHALLENGES THAT BECOME OPPORTUNITIES

Right now, global beverage brands and local and regional producers are making significant inroads in various African markets by blending 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 key for success. If we look at traditional markets, hygiene, quality control and infrastructure are the most common stumbling blocks. While the growth of modern distribution channels has led to increased competition among beverage brands, making price sensitivity a key factor in purchasing decisions. Alongside this, ecommerce channels need to work around issues such as logistics, infrastructure limitations, and trust-related issues in term of payments, delivery, and accessibility.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Smollan.

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As global power structures shift, Invest Africa convenes The Africa Debate 2026 to redefine partnership in a changing world

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February 6, 2026

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The Africa Debate 2026 will provide a platform for this essential, era-defining discussion, convening leaders to explore how Africa and its partners can build more balanced, resilient and sustainable models of cooperation

LONDON, United Kingdom, February 5, 2026/APO Group/ –As African economies assert greater agency in a rapidly evolving global order, Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com) is delighted to announce The Africa Debate 2026, its flagship investment forum, taking place at the historic Guildhall in London on 3 June 2026.

Now in its 12th year, The Africa Debate has established itself as London’s premier platform for African investment dialogue since launching in 2014, convening over 800 global decision-makers annually to shape the future of trade, finance, investment, and development across the continent.

Under the theme “Redefining Partnership: Navigating a World in Transition”, this year’s forum will focus on Africa’s response to global economic realignment with greater agency, ambition and economic sovereignty.

The Africa Debate puts Africa’s priorities at the centre of the conversation, moving beyond traditional narratives to focus on ownership, resilience and long-term value creation.

“Volatility is not new to Africa. What is changing is the opportunity to respond with greater agency and ambition,” says Invest Africa CEO Chantelé Carrington.

“This year’s edition of The Africa Debate asks how we strengthen economic sovereignty — from access to capital and investment to financial and industrial policy — so African economies can take greater ownership of their growth. Success will be defined by how effectively we turn disruption into leverage and partnership into shared value.”

The Africa Debate 2026 will provide a platform for this essential, era-defining discussion, convening leaders to explore how Africa and its partners can build more balanced, resilient and sustainable models of cooperation.

Key challenges driving the debate

Core focus areas for this year’s edition of The Africa Debate include:

This year’s edition of The Africa Debate asks how we strengthen economic sovereignty — from access to capital and investment to financial and industrial policy

Global Realignment & New Partnerships

How shifting geopolitical and economic power structures are reshaping Africa’s global partnerships, trade dynamics and investment landscape.

Financing Africa’s Future

The growing need to reform the global financial architecture, new approaches to development finance, as well as the strengthening of market access and financial resilience of African economies in a changing global system.

Strategic Value Chains

Moving beyond primary exports to build local value chains in critical minerals for the green economy. Also addressing Africa’s energy access gap and mobilising investment in renewable and transitional energy systems.

Digital Transformation & Technology

Unlocking growth in fintech, AI and digital infrastructure to drive productivity, inclusion, and the next phase of Africa’s economic transformation.

The Africa Debate 2026 offers a unique platform for high-level dialogue, deal-making, and strategic engagement. Attendees will gain actionable insights from leading policymakers, investors and business leaders shaping Africa’s economic future, while building strategic partnerships that define the continent’s next growth phase.

Registration is now open (http://apo-opa.co/46b19gj).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

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Zion Adeoye terminated as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CLG due to serious personal and professional conduct violations

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February 6, 2026

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After a thorough internal and external investigation, along with a disciplinary hearing chaired by Sbongiseni Dube, CLG (https://CLGglobal.com) has made the decision to terminate Zion Adeoye due to serious personal and professional conduct violations. This process adhered to the Code of Good Practice of the Labour Relations Act, ensuring fairness, transparency, and compliance with South African law.

Mr. Adeoye has been held accountable for several serious offenses, including:

  • Making malicious and defamatory statements against colleagues
  • Extortion
  • Intimidation
  • Fraud
  • Misuse of company funds
  • Theft and misappropriation of funds
  • Breach of fiduciary duty
  • Mismanagement

His actions are in direct contradiction to our firm’s core values. We do not approve of attorneys spending time in a Gentleman’s Club. CLG deeply regrets the impact this situation has had on our colleagues and continues to provide full support to those affected.

We want to express our gratitude to those who spoke up and to reassure everyone at the firm of our unwavering commitment to maintaining a respectful workplace. Misconduct of any kind is unacceptable and will be addressed decisively.

We recognize the seriousness of this matter and have referred it to the appropriate law enforcement, regulatory, and legal authorities in Nigeria, Mauritius, and South Africa. We kindly ask that the privacy of the third party involved be respected.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.

 

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The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Strengthens Partnership with the Republic of Djibouti through US$35 Million Financing Facility

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February 6, 2026

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This facility forms part of the US$600 million, three-year Framework Agreement signed in May 2023 between ITFC and the Republic of Djibouti, reflecting the strong and growing partnership between both parties

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, February 5, 2026/APO Group/ –The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (https://www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, has signed a US$35 million sovereign financing facility with the Republic of Djibouti to support the development of the country’s bunkering services sector and strengthen its position as a strategic regional maritime and trade hub.

The facility was signed at the ITFC Headquarters in Jeddah by Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, Chief Executive Officer of ITFC, and H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, Minister of Economy and Finance in charge of Industry of the Republic of Djibouti.

The financing facility is expected to contribute to Djibouti’s economic growth and revenue diversification by reinforcing the competitiveness and attractiveness of the Djibouti Port as a “one-stop port” offering comprehensive vessel-related services. With Red Sea Bunkering (RSB) as the Executing Agency, the facility will support the procurement of refined petroleum products, thus boosting RSB’s bunkering operations, enhancing revenue diversification, and consolidating Djibouti’s role as a key logistics and trading hub in the Horn of Africa and the wider region.

We look forward to deepening this partnership, creating new opportunities, and leveraging collaborative programs to advance key sectors and drive sustainable economic growth

Commenting on the signing, Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, CEO of ITFC, stated:

“This financing reflects ITFC’s continued commitment to supporting Djibouti’s strategic development priorities, particularly in strengthening energy security, port competitiveness, and trade facilitation. We are proud to deepen our partnership with the Republic of Djibouti and contribute to sustainable economic growth and regional integration.”

H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, Minister of Economy and Finance in charge of Industry of the Republic of Djibouti, commented: “Today’s signing marks an important milestone in the development of Djibouti’s bunkering services and reflects our strong and valued partnership with ITFC, particularly in the oil and gas sector. This collaboration supports our ambition to position Djibouti as a regional hub for integrated maritime and logistics services. We look forward to deepening this partnership, creating new opportunities, and leveraging collaborative programs to advance key sectors and drive sustainable economic growth.”

This facility forms part of the US$600 million, three-year Framework Agreement signed in May 2023 between ITFC and the Republic of Djibouti, reflecting the strong and growing partnership between both parties.

Since its inception in 2008, ITFC and the Republic of Djibouti have maintained a strong partnership, with a total of US$1.8 billion approved primarily supporting the country’s energy sector and trade development objectives.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

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