How Digital Technologies Could Boost Tiny Retailers in Developing Countries

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Too much of this vast market’s potential is unrealized.

October 03, 2023

Oct23 03 1479691508

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  • Micro-retailers are vitally important to the economies of developing countries and to consumer packaged goods companies. But their full potential is not being realized. The adoption of digital technologies could help change that. But for that to happen, obstacles must be overcome. Three strategies can address them.

    Independently operated micro-retailers that typically serve fewer than 100 households in local communities account for most retail business in developing countries. In Latin America, for example, these “nanostores” account for an estimated 40% to 70% of consumer-packaged goods (CPG) companies’ sales, making it the largest channel in terms of sales volume.

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    Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Digital Intelligence . Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.

    Excel in a world that’s being continually transformed by technology.

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