In a somber announcement on May 16th, 2024, Kenyan ecommerce startup Copia notified its 1060 employees of looming layoffs and the imminent risk of business shutdown. In a notice to staff obtained by Launch Base Africa, Copia CEO Tim Steel outlined the company’s difficulties and the potential impact on its workforce. The notice, issued in compliance with Section 40 (1) (b) of the Employment Act, 2007, hinged on the necessity for organizational restructuring to salvage operations.

Copia, which has been grappling with financial challenges for some time, revealed its efforts to secure additional funding had been unsuccessful, leaving the company with no choice but to contemplate significant restructuring or potential shutdown. While the management expressed determination to overcome the hurdles, they cautioned employees about the uncertainties ahead, including the possibility of salary payment disruptions.

The company underscored its obligation to provide a one-month notice period for potential redundancies, as mandated by law, along with a corresponding one-month consultation period with affected staff. Should a restructuring be implemented, approximately 1060 positions could be eliminated, subjecting the incumbents to redundancy terminations. Moreover, in the event of a complete shutdown, all employees would face termination.

During the notice period, Copia assured its commitment to fulfilling statutory obligations regarding consultation and selection processes, where applicable. Employees were encouraged to reach out to Human Resources for any inquiries regarding the situation.

This development comes on the heels of Copia Global’s recent success in securing a $20 million Series C extension round in December last year. Notable contributors to the funding round include Enza Capital, co-founded by former Metaswitch CEO John Lazar, along with LGT, Goodwell Investments, DFC, DEG, Elea, Perivoli Foundation, and Sorenson Foundation. The investment was intended to bolster Copia’s endeavors in catering to mid- and low-income African consumers in rural areas through its ecommerce and fintech platform.

Investors cited several reasons for their support, including the anticipation of a surge in African consumer spending, Copia’s operational resilience facilitated by its extensive network of local agents, strategic alignments, and the startup’s shift towards profitability focus in its home market of Kenya.

Established a decade ago, Copia has been dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by consumers in rural areas in accessing goods and services. Despite recent adjustments in expansion plans, the company remains committed to achieving profitability in Kenya before scaling up internationally.

Previously, Copia had experienced significant growth, boasting a 100% annual growth rate. The company’s strategy focused on leveraging a network of over 50,000 local agents to provide essential goods and services to mid- and low-income consumers in rural areas. This hyperlocal approach addressed the specific challenges faced by these consumers, including limited access to products and unreliable services.

However, the current financial constraints threaten Copia’s future. The company’s ability to navigate these challenges and potentially achieve profitability in Kenya remains to be seen. The potential job losses for over 1000 employees cast a shadow over Copia’s future and its impact on the communities it serves.

Copia raised a total of $107.5 million in funding from its inception until the Series C extension round in 2023.