Schneider Electric East Africa has launched an eCommerce platform to modernize the procurement process and enhance accessibility to its products.
The platform caters to tier 2 channels, industry teams, building managers, end-users, and retail customers, delivering products directly to their doorsteps.
Geraldine Sande, Channel Sales Leader, described the platform as a significant move to improve efficiency and visibility in the region.
“The eCommerce site in East Africa represents a significant step towards modernising the procurement process for Schneider Electric products. It also reinforces the company’s market presence,” said Sande.
The eCommerce site lists products under categories like Home and Building, Power Products, Industry Business, Digital Energy, and Access to Energy.
It primarily targets residential end-users and commercial customers, providing a convenient way to source products locally.
Also Read: MTN Group Hosts Ugandan Delegation to Boost Innovation and Collaboration
Schneider Electric Simplifying Access to Schneider Products
The platform aims to bridge a gap in Kenya’s market, where Schneider Electric lacked visibility and a formal online presence.
“Many people would ask if Schneider Electric was present in Kenya because we did not have a website. Customers would find our partners on other Schneider Electric subsidiary platforms,” Sande explained.
With this platform, customers can access products quickly without needing intermediary channels. It also supports “specifiers,” such as project planners and companies managing supply chains for maintenance.
Sande acknowledged potential concerns from resellers and distributors who might feel threatened by the platform. However, she emphasized the benefits for their businesses. “The platform can enhance distributor operations by creating a direct line to consumers,” she said.
The eCommerce site also provides preferential pricing for bulk purchases, encouraging resellers to buy in large quantities. Distributors can reduce overhead costs and improve stock turnover through streamlined inventory management.
“From the distributor’s perspective, the platform will benefit them by increasing their sell-out,” added Sande. “This represents an incremental business opportunity for our distributors.”
Schneider Electric’s eCommerce platform is set to strengthen its market presence and transform the procurement experience for customers and distributors.