FoodCo Nigeria Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing modern retail in Nigeria and providing market access for local manufacturers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Southwest region. This commitment was reiterated during the opening of the 20th brand store in Adegbayi, Ibadan, Oyo State, which includes a supermarket, restaurant, in-house bakery, and grills.
Funmi Aiyepeku, Head of Innovation & Growth and Business Transformation at FoodCo Nigeria Limited, emphasized that the new facility aims to bring quality assurance, convenience, and excellent customer service closer to the community and its surroundings. She highlighted the company’s dedication to meeting customer demands with affordable pricing while navigating economic challenges.
Aiyepeku underlined FoodCo’s resilience in the face of market shifts and its determination to redefine modern retail in Nigeria through customer-centricity, innovation, and community partnerships. The new outlet is a testament to this commitment.
Regarding growth strategies amid decreased customer purchasing power, Aiyepeku explained that FoodCo’s adaptability to market dynamics has been pivotal to its success. The company is actively exploring and investing in new technologies to engage the mobile younger population and provide them with a seamless and cost-effective shopping experience.
Ayotunde Oshintuga, Head of Supply Chain at FoodCo Nigeria Limited, emphasized the company’s serious approach to promoting locally produced goods, ensuring compliance with government regulations. He noted that FoodCo collaborates with local suppliers and small-scale farmers to enhance the availability of fresh farm items, working with approximately 700 local suppliers to support and bolster the local industry.
Oshintuga highlighted that one of the primary challenges faced by local producers and manufacturers is accessing the market, a gap FoodCo readily addresses by providing them with opportunities to reach consumers. He also emphasized the company’s robust system for quality control and product auditing to ensure standards and expiry dates are upheld for all stocked items.