Togo, with around 8.5 million people (2021 est.) and a GDP per capita around USD 2,260 (PPP), is a coastal West African country anchored by the Port of Lomé—critical for imports and re-exports to neighbouring landlocked states like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali .

Distribution & Retail Landscape

1. Supermarkets & Modern Retail

• Togo hosts multiple local and international supermarket chains throughout Lomé, including: Champion, Leader Price, Ramco, CitiMart, Cora, Eco Shop, Global Mart, King Cash, and Agroboss .
• These outlets cater to urban middle- and upper-income segments, importing most of their products.

2. Traditional & Informal Channels

• Outside major cities, most Togolese buy from neighborhood kiosks, local markets, and micro-retailers focused on essential foodstuffs and everyday goods .
• Markets like Dantokpa in Lomé serve as wholesale hubs for informal traders.

3. Distribution & Wholesale Players

• Major firms like CFAO Retail and SIVOP (for consumer goods or beauty/personal care) operate nationwide, supplying both modern and informal outlets .
• Other niche distributors include telecom (Moov/Togocel), agricultural inputs (CICA Togo), and industrial suppliers .

4. E-commerce & Digital Channels

• E-commerce remains early-stage: ~1–3% penetration with platforms like Miaplenou, Assigamé, Tchacs, and social-commerce via Instagram, using mobile money and cash-on-delivery .
• Logistics and trust barriers persist, though urban uptake is rising with fintech growth .

Entry Strategy Insights

Channel	Strategy Highlights
Supermarkets	Partner with chains in Lomé to access middle-/upper-tier consumers. These channels rely heavily on imports.
Informal retail	Forge relationships with wholesalers, market traders, and micro-retail outlets for wide distribution.
Distribution firms	Use experienced players like CFAO and SIVOP to manage import, clearance, warehousing, and logistics.
Digital sales	Pilot through local e-commerce platforms with mobile money and COD. Address trust and delivery infrastructure.
Cross-border leverage	Use Lomé’s port and free-trade zone (SAZOF) to export to regional markets.

How SCA‑Partner Supports You in Togo

• Provide economic and consumer insights tailored to Togo
• Source and vet distributors, wholesalers, and retail partners
• Plan channel strategies across supermarkets, markets, and digital
• Align logistics via Lomé–Cotonou networks and corridor planning
• Facilitate import clearance, licensing, and compliance
• Support e‑commerce pilots with delivery, payment, and marketing
• Secure trademarks and navigate local regulatory frameworks

Why On-the-Ground Expertise Matters

Togo’s retail ecosystem is a mix of traditional markets, growing modern retail, and nascent digital platforms. Working across these requires deep local insight—from Togo’s diverse shopper habits to port procedures and informal trade dynamics. SCA‑Partner—with a presence across 54 African countries—offers the hands-on support and channel access you need.

👉 Visit us at: www.scapartner.com