Global tools distributor opens e-commerce site for Kenyan clients

Global industrial and electrical equipment distributor RS Components has launched an e-commerce website on which Kenyans can now buy products using their credit cards.

The new African e-commerce site will be managed by the South Africa office servicing 14 countries including Kenya, where customers have previously been forced to order through the South African site, which has led to delays in delivery.

The firm distributes equipment to various industries such as manufacturing, mining, automotive, utilities and electronics.

It distributes more than 500 000 products from 2500 brands, including batteries, converters, computing equipment, cables, transformers, fans, adhesives, plumbing and security equipment.

“Customers in Africa had access to our products prior to the website, however there were long lead times and higher freight costs depending on location,” said the company in a statement.

“With the new website customers receive their products much quicker and we can give additional markets in Africa access to our range through our e-commerce platform where they can pay via credit card.”

RS Components is the trading brand of London Stock Exchange listed firm Electrocomponents Plc, which also runs distributorships in Europe, North and South America, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

The move to launch the e-commerce platform is informed by the increased use of online shopping options in Kenya and the region, which has coincided with more widespread access to the Internet.

Kenya also has one of the fastest Internet speeds in the region.

Making purchases online directly from global suppliers is also cheaper for local buyers, even taking into account shipping charges, and also gives them access to a wider range of products that they would not otherwise find in local shops.