List of Companies That Need Distributors in Nigeria 2024

The history of distribution companies extends back to ancient times, well before the advent of the modern period.

The distribution business is a significant source of income in modern Nigeria (and the globe), which delivers products from manufacturing centres to consumer hubs.

Even though distributorship is on the rise in Nigeria, it is still widely neglected since many people see it as dull or odd.

Sadly, though, while the uninformed drown in their ignorance, the smart are making a killing with this business.

In this post, I will provide a complete overview of distributorship business prospects in Nigeria so that you are well-informed about the companies that need distributors in Nigeria.

Let me know in the comment if you have any questions. I will love to hear from you.

Distributorship Business in Nigeria

A man smiling at the camera

Goods generally move through the four stages in the distribution chain:

  1. Manufacturer
  2. Wholesaler
  3. Retailer
  4. Consumer.

This structure demonstrates the role of distributors in bringing products to the end customers, who are the target markets for all enterprises and producers.

Because of this, manufacturers and producers are always looking for new distributors to work with on a part-time or permanent basis.

As Nigeria has such a large population, there is always a need for consumer products.

The distribution business will remain successful so long as there is a need for products.

It means distribution is a few industries where job loss is unlikely.

Find a good product and a reputable manufacturer or company, and you’ll have everything you need to enter the Nigerian distribution market.

More essential, ensure you have direct communication with your intended audience.

List of Companies That Need Distributors in Nigeria

Women standing near carton of boxes

The following is a detailed list of companies that need distributors in Nigeria:

  • FMCG Companies
  • Breweries Companies
  • Noodles Companies
  • International Companies

FMCG Companies

The phrase “Fast Moving Consumer Goods,” or “FMCG,” is perhaps the most important.

In its most basic form, distribution involves transporting consumer items so that they may be reached by people who need them.

Companies that produce household goods like Bournvita, Milo, Chivita (and other beverage products), Semovita, CloseUp, Indomie, and so on are often referred to as fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

Thousands more distributors work for these firms, and their main job is to get the companies’ products to the people who need them.

Interestingly, most fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies are always searching for new distributors to expand into new regions and reach more of their target demographic.

Examples of major FMCG companies include;

  • Nestlé
  • Dangote
  • CHI Limited
  • Cadbury
  • Peak Milk
  • Maggi
  • Dangote Flour Mills
  • PZ Cuzzons
  • Procter & Gamble (P & G)
  • AG Leventis
  • Next International Nigeria LTD
  • Promasidor
  • OneCard
  • Unilever and many more.

Those interested in becoming distributors for FMCG products should contact these companies.

You can sign up as a distributor at the company’s local branch, depot, or plant/factory.

There is a cost involved. However, that will vary with how many items you’re prepared to invest in upfront.

You’ll need at least two hundred thousand Naira (₦200,000) to get your FMCG distribution business off the ground.

In addition, Unilever Nigeria PLC is one of the largest FMCG companies globally, making them your best choice if you’re looking to distribute various FMCG products.

Breweries Companies

Beer consumption in Nigeria is so high that the country is among the top beer drinkers in Africa.

Beer manufacturers, including Guinness, Gulder, Star, Coca-cola, SevenUp Bottling Company, Heineken Trophy, and Hero, always looking for distributors to help them increase their sales.

Numerous individuals in Nigeria have found gainful employment via the beer distribution industry.

And the biggest winners are the people who own pubs and restaurants serving alcohol.

The breweries in Nigeria can’t get their beer to all the taverns and clubs in the country on their own. Thus, the significance of beer wholesalers can’t be underlined enough.

To succeed as a beer distributor in Nigeria, having a vehicle (through lease or hire purchase) is strongly recommended but not required.

Getting products to customers quickly is crucial to any business’s success, and this factor’s importance increases with distance from the consumer.

Like any other distribution business, a beer distribution company needs initial funding to get off the ground.

It would cost something in the range of ₦200,000 to 500,000 to distribute the product on a smaller scale.

Massive distribution, assuming no additional hidden expenses, would cost several million Naira.

Noodles Companies

One of the most popular foods in Nigeria is Indomie, the slang name for noodles in general.

It’s usually a quick meal or snack because it’s cheap, has a lot of nutrients, and doesn’t take much time to make.

Working adults and students who don’t have much time to cook find Indomie a good supplement.

It means that Indomie (noodles) are in high demand in Nigeria. And its distribution is one of the most profitable businesses in the country.

Getting approved as a distributor for Indomie or another major noodle brand (like Honeywell) requires a significant financial investment for a warehouse, vehicles or trucks, and stock procurement. An average cost might reach 10 million Naira (or more).

Dufil Prima Foods (Indomie) and Honeywell, two companies that make noodles, are actively looking for distributors in Nigeria.

They offer wholesale prices and stock to distributors. You may be obligated to pay in whole or part based on the terms of the legally binding agreement.

Recall it’s suggested that you get in touch with other local distributors of noodles.

So, you might find a secret formula to help your business grow and succeed.

International Companies

There are a lot of different international companies and goods that can be sold in Nigeria.

You can get a distributor’s license for international companies.

Despite the industry’s longevity, new prospects and commodities are constantly being introduced for distribution.

You are free to start a distributorship business using any one of the several existing international companies.

Prominent international companies that need distributors in Nigeria are;

  • A-Map
  • Evergrow International
  • Zafco
  • Al Kamal Shampoo & Cleaning Material International
  • New Al Dhaid Furniture

Join A-Map if you want to engage in the distribution of automobile batteries and components.

If you’re going to sell car batteries and parts, you can become a member of A-Map. Zafco is a great company to work with if you’re interested in batteries or tires.

Regarding beauty products, KEMO is your go-to distributor, while Evergrow International is your go-to for stationery and electronics.

Other Distribution Companies

Other distributorship companies are:

Water Companies

Bottled water, such as CWAY Table Water, Eva Table Water, Nestle Bottle Water, Ragolis Bottle Water, and SWAN Table Water, are also available for distribution.

These companies include CWAY, Aquapac Limited, 7up, and Nigerian Breweries.

Drugs

If you want to become a distributor, the following drug companies are hiring now.

  • Fidson Healthcare plc,
  • Chris Ejik Pharmaceuticals & Drug Co. Ltd,
  • GlaxoSmithKline Plc,
  • Klat Pharmaceutical Co.,
  • Maydon Pharmaceuticals Limited,
  • Famzy Nigeria Limited, and
  • Pharma Deko Plc.

International Distribution Nigeria

Many more companies are available for starting a distributorship in Nigeria than we could cover here.

I recommend starting at www.africa-business.com if you want to pursue unbiased research.

This website provides information about businesses in the United States and other countries looking for distributors in Nigeria and other African countries.

Conclusion

Many more companies like the above make and sell products and have distributor opportunities for Nigerian distributors.

So there you have it. All that’s left is for you to make a daring move.

And as a distributor, I do not doubt you will do well. I wish you the best of luck.

Let me know in the comment box below if you have any questions or need further clarification. I will love to help you.

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27 thoughts on “List of Companies That Need Distributors in Nigeria 2024”

  1. Hello Blessing, Apart from the 200k for the startup with the company, what are the other necessary thing to put in place in other not to be stock along the line. kindly give more insight.
    Thank You

    Reply
    • While the initial investment of 200k is important, it’s only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to avoiding stock issues and becoming a successful distributor in Nigeria.

      Here are some other essential things to consider:

      1. Market Research and Product Selection:

      a. Thoroughly research the market: Understand the demand for the products you want to distribute, your target audience, and existing competition. Analyze pricing, distribution channels, and potential challenges specific to your chosen products and region.

      b. Choose products with high turnover: Opt for products with consistent demand to avoid stock piling up. Consider factors like seasonality, trends, and local preferences.

      c. Negotiate flexible payment terms with suppliers: Secure agreements that allow you to manage your cash flow effectively and avoid overstocking due to financial constraints.

      2. Business Operations and Planning:

      a. Develop a solid business plan: This should include financial projections, marketing strategies, sales plans, and inventory management procedures.

      b. Secure adequate storage space: Choose a location that meets product storage requirements, is accessible, and has proper security measures.

      c. Implement efficient inventory management: Utilize inventory tracking software or systems to monitor stock levels, optimize ordering, and prevent overstocking or stockouts.

      d. Establish a reliable transportation network: Secure partnerships with reliable logistics companies to ensure timely and efficient product deliveries to your customers.

      3. Marketing and Sales Strategies:

      a. Develop effective marketing strategies: Utilize various marketing channels like online platforms, social media, or local advertising to reach your target audience and create brand awareness.

      b. Build strong relationships with retailers and wholesalers: Network and build partnerships with key players in your target market to ensure consistent sales channels.

      c. Offer competitive pricing and value-added services: Analyze competitor pricing and offer attractive deals to attract and retain customers. Consider offering additional services like delivery or installation to differentiate yourself.

      d. Monitor sales performance: Regularly track your sales data to identify trends, adjust strategies, and optimize product selection and inventory levels.

      Remember, success as a distributor requires a combination of careful planning, strategic execution, and constant adaptation. By focusing on market research, efficient operations, effective marketing, and building strong relationships, you can increase your chances of avoiding stock issues and achieving sustainable growth in the Nigerian market.

      Reply
  2. Hi, blessing. My name is Jadesola, I’m a student and I’d like to know more about the distributorship business to help a fellow family member. Is it okay if you drop your email or any other means I can communicate with you?

    Reply
    • I’d be happy to help you write a business plan for a Coca-Cola sub-distributor. To provide the most relevant and comprehensive plan, I need some additional information from you:

      1. Location and Scope:

      – Where will your sub-distribution business operate? (Specify city, region, or specific territory)
      – What type of customers will you primarily target? (Retail stores, restaurants, convenience stores, etc.)
      – What Coca-Cola products will you distribute? (Specific brands, bottled/canned/fountain formats, etc.)

      2. Business Operations:

      – What is your business model? (Wholesale, delivery, value-added services, etc.)
      – What is your initial investment budget? (Warehouse, vehicles, equipment, inventory, etc.)
      – How many employees do you plan to hire initially?
      – What will your marketing and sales strategy be?

      3. Financial Projections:

      – Do you have any estimated sales projections for the first year or three years?
      – What are your expected operating costs and expenses?
      – Do you have any funding secured, or are you seeking investors?

      Once I have this information, I can start building a tailored business plan

      Reply
  3. i want to start a business as a distributor of Nigeria brews products in abuja,if i can get the marketing manager incharge of the distributor in abuja ,so that he can guide ,provide all the necessary require to be a major distributor

    Reply
    • 1. Contact Nigeria Brews Headquarters: Call their main office in Lagos at +234 1 280 4300 or +234 1 461 6469. Ask to be connected to the Regional Sales Manager for Abuja.

      2. Visit the Nigeria Brews website: Check their “Contact Us” page or careers section for regional team details.

      3. Network with Industry Professionals: Attend industry events or contact existing Nigeria Brews distributors in Abuja to inquire about the regional manager’s contact information.

      Reply
    • As a sub-distributor of a product in Nigeria, you can make a profit by buying the product from the distributor at a wholesale price and reselling it to retailers at a higher price. The difference between the wholesale price and the retail price is your profit margin.

      Reply
  4. Evergrow International is your go-to for stationery and electronics.

    How reach the company and if you know what it will cost to register as a distributor

    Reply
  5. Dear Blessing, My name is Andy, please can you be my mentor? I live in Abuja Nigeria, what distributor business can I go into with #100,000.

    Reply
    • There are many distributor businesses that you can start with 100,000 naira in Abuja, Nigeria. Here are a few ideas:

      1. Food distributor: This is a popular business because food is always in demand. You can start by distributing packaged foods, such as noodles, rice, and canned goods. As you grow, you can expand to distributing fresh produce, meats, and dairy products.

      2. Electronics distributor: This is another in-demand business, as electronics are becoming increasingly popular in Nigeria. You can start by distributing small electronics, such as mobile phones and laptops. As you grow, you can expand to distributing larger electronics, such as televisions and refrigerators.

      3. Clothing distributor: This is a good business for people who have a good eye for fashion. You can start by distributing clothes for men, women, and children. As you grow, you can expand to distributing other fashion accessories, such as shoes, bags, and jewelry.

      4. Pharmaceutical distributor: This is a regulated business, but it can be very profitable. You will need to obtain a license from the government before you can start this business.

      5. Hardware distributor: This is a good business for people who are familiar with the construction industry. You can start by distributing basic hardware items, such as nails, screws, and tools. As you grow, you can expand to distributing more specialized hardware items, such as roofing materials and electrical supplies.

      6. Office supplies distributor: This is a business that is always in demand, as businesses need office supplies on a regular basis. You can start by distributing basic office supplies, such as pens, paper, and staplers. As you grow, you can expand to distributing more specialized office supplies, such as furniture and printers.

      Once you have chosen a distributor business, you will need to develop a business plan. This plan should include your goals for the business, your marketing strategy, and your financial projections.

      Starting a distributor business can be a great way to make a profit. However, it is important to do your research and choose a business that is right for you. With hard work and dedication, you can be successful in this business.

      Reply
  6. Dear Sir,

    I trust this message finds you well. My name is Victor Masih, and I serve as the Export Manager on behalf of Pyrotech Electronics Pvt Ltd, a distinguished manufacturing company established in India since 1976. We specialize in the production of a comprehensive range of industrial LED Lights, Solar Lights, Drivers, Fire Alarm Systems, CCTV, and various other industrial equipment. so i would like to request you kindly guide us that how can we find a dealer and distributor who have good contact in industry like cement plans, Still plants, Mining and other sectors

    Reply
    • Here are some tips on how to find a dealer and distributor who have good contact in industries like cement plants, steel plants, mining, and other sectors:

      1. Start by networking with people in the industry. Talk to your colleagues, suppliers, and customers to see if they know of any dealers or distributors who would be a good fit for your products.

      2. Attend trade shows and conferences. This is a great way to meet potential dealers and distributors and learn more about the industry.
      Search online for dealers and distributors. There are a number of websites that list dealers and distributors of industrial products.

      3. Contact the manufacturers of the equipment that you sell. They may be able to put you in touch with dealers and distributors who sell their products.

      4. Use a trade association. There are a number of trade associations that represent the interests of the industrial sector. They may be able to put you in touch with dealers and distributors.

      Once you have a list of potential dealers and distributors, you will need to contact them to see if they are interested in your products. Be sure to provide them with information about your products, your company, and your sales terms.

      It is also important to do your research on the dealers and distributors that you are considering. Check their reputation, their financial stability, and their reach in the industries that you are targeting.

      Finding a good dealer and distributor can be a challenge, but it is essential for success in the export market. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a dealer and distributor who will help you to reach your target markets.

      Here are some additional tips for finding a dealer and distributor:

      1. Be clear about your target market. What industries are you targeting? What are the specific needs of these industries?
      2. Be clear about your products. What products do you sell? What are the benefits of your products?
      3. Be clear about your sales terms. How do you expect to sell your products? What are your payment terms?
      4. Be persistent. It may take some time to find a good dealer and distributor. Don’t give up if you don’t find one right away.

      I hope this helps!

      Reply
    • Sure, I can help you with that. Here are the steps on how to become a dealer of all Coca-Cola products in Nigeria:

      1. Contact the Coca-Cola Bottling Company Nigeria (CCBN). The CCBN is the exclusive bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola products in Nigeria. You can contact them through their website or by phone.

      2. Request for a dealer application form. The CCBN will provide you with a dealer application form. You will need to complete this form and submit it to the CCBN.

      3. Provide the required documentation. The CCBN will require you to provide certain documentation, such as your business registration certificate, your tax clearance certificate, and your financial statement.

      4. Meet the eligibility requirements. The CCBN has certain eligibility requirements that you must meet in order to become a dealer. These requirements include having a valid business license, having a good credit history, and having the financial resources to operate a successful business.

      5. Sign a dealer agreement. If your application is approved, you will be required to sign a dealer agreement with the CCBN. This agreement will outline the terms and conditions of your relationship with the CCBN.

      6. Start selling Coca-Cola products. Once you have signed the dealer agreement, you will be able to start selling Coca-Cola products.

      Here are some of the requirements that you need to meet in order to become a dealer of all Coca-Cola products in Nigeria:

      1. You must have a valid business registration certificate.

      2. You must have a good credit history.

      3. You must have the financial resources to operate a successful business.

      4. You must have a suitable location for your business.

      5. You must be able to meet the minimum order requirements.

      6. You must be able to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

      I hope this helps!

      Reply
        • The minimum order requirements to become a Coca-Cola distributor in Nigeria can vary depending on several factors, including:

          1. Distributor type: Coca-Cola has different categories of distributors, each with their own requirements. For instance, a small “mom-and-pop” distributor might have lower minimums than a large regional distributor.

          2. Territory size: Distributors responsible for larger territories will naturally have higher minimum order quantities compared to those handling smaller areas.

          3. Product range: The variety of Coca-Cola products you intend to distribute will also influence the minimum order. Distributing a wider range typically means higher minimums.

          4. Distribution channel: Whether you’re supplying supermarkets, restaurants, kiosks, or other outlets can impact the minimum order.

          5. Current market conditions: Coca-Cola might adjust minimum order requirements based on overall market demand and supply situations.

          Reply
    • I understand that you want to be given goods on credit so that you can sell them and pay back later. There are a few ways that you can do this.

      One way is to contact a wholesaler or distributor of Indomie and ask them if they offer credit terms. They may be willing to give you a small amount of credit to start with, and then increase your credit limit as you build a good relationship with them.

      Another way to get Indomie on credit is to find a retailer who is willing to sell you the goods on consignment. This means that you will not have to pay for the goods until you have sold them. However, you will need to agree on a commission rate with the retailer, and you will be responsible for any losses if the goods do not sell.

      Finally, you could also try to get a loan from a bank or other financial institution. This would allow you to buy a large quantity of Indomie in one go, and then sell it off over time. However, you would need to be able to provide collateral for the loan, and you would also have to pay interest on the loan.

      Whichever method you choose, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are getting a good deal. You should also be clear about the terms of the agreement, so that there are no surprises later on.

      Reply

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