Sundry Markets has more than doubled its store count over the past five years. The Nigerian grocery retailer is now recognized as one of Africa's fastest-growing companies.
Financial Times ranked the firm among the "Top 50 Africa's Fastest Growing Companies 2024–2026." Marketsquare Supermarket, its flagship brand, has become a household name across the country.
A decade ago, the company operated just one store in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Today it runs over 40 locations spanning 19 cities and 15 states.
Sundry Markets now employs more than 4,000 workers nationwide. These staff members serve approximately 2 million customers each month.
The company's footprint extends across major states including Lagos, Rivers, Kaduna, Oyo, Delta, and the Federal Capital Territory. Smaller markets in Borno, Abia, Anambra, Imo, and Enugu also have Sundry Markets stores.
Founder and CEO Ebele Enunwa marked a decade of operations at the company's anniversary gala last week. He reflected on the journey from dream to reality.
"Ten years ago, Sundry Markets was only a dream," Enunwa told attendees. "Today our markets have become a household name in many parts of the country."
The CEO identified a clear problem in Nigeria's retail grocery sector. He noticed customers were forced to shop in poor conditions with low standards.
"I decided to be part of the solution," Enunwa noted. His mission was straightforward: deliver warmth, trust, and affordability in clean, safe spaces.
Starting in Yenagoa seemed unconventional to many observers. But Enunwa asked a simple question: why shouldn't every community access quality retail?
Early years brought unexpected challenges to the young retailer. Power supply issues threatened their brand-new systems in those initial days.
"We learned, we adapted, and we grew," he said. The company now manages over 50,000 square metres of retail space.
Staffing has expanded dramatically since launch. A handful of employees has become thousands, according to Enunwa.
"Our country markets have served millions of customers and created thousands of jobs," he added. The firm has also "set new standards" across Nigeria's grocery retail landscape.
Success didn't come alone, the CEO emphasized. Staff members, partners, and customers across Nigeria all played crucial roles in the company's expansion.
Sundry Markets has invested in giving back to communities nationwide. The company runs scholarship programmes and healthcare education initiatives.
Cultural support remains part of their corporate responsibility agenda. Enunwa stressed commitment to sustainability and renewable energy adoption.
"We are committed to empowering women and paying our taxes," he said. The retailer takes pride in contributing meaningfully to Nigeria's economy.
Looking ahead, Sundry Markets has ambitious plans for the next decade. Enunwa wants to reach communities that currently lack access to quality supermarkets.
Digital transformation will drive future growth, he explained. Artificial intelligence integration into mobile applications is being explored.
"We are building technology solutions that will enhance convenience," Enunwa said. The company aims to "create experiences beyond imagination" for shoppers.
Innovation and inspiration will guide Sundry Markets forward. The retailer's trajectory suggests Nigeria's indigenous retail sector has substantial room for expansion.
