Z, a B2B marketplace transforming Africa's traditional retail ecosystem, has secured $1.05 million in seed funding. The investment round was led by Morocco-based venture capital firms MNF Ventures, Witamax, Cash Plus Ventures, and Kalys Ventures, pending Competition Council approval. According to Z's press release issued on December 12, 2024, the startup has gained significant traction since its 2022 launch, serving over 15,000 active retailers representing approximately 85% of Greater Casablanca's addressable market. The platform has processed more than 800,000 orders with a 95% positive rating on rated orders. The company was founded by Meriem Benabad, a former P&G executive and Stanford GSB graduate, alongside Samer Choumar, an ex-BCG consultant and Columbia Business School graduate, and Youssef Ait-Haddouch, who brings expertise in fintech and mobile payment systems. Operating in Morocco's $25 billion FMCG market, Z aims to address challenges faced by traditional retailers, including fragmented supply chains and growing competition from modern retail formats. The funding will support Z's technological development, product catalog expansion, and preparation for its next growth phase.
