Z.Systems, a B2B marketplace transforming Africa’s traditional retail ecosystem, has successfully closed a $1.05M seed funding round. Led by Morocco-based VCs—MNF Ventures (through its MNF II fund), Witamax (through Fund II and III), Cash Plus Ventures, and Kalys Ventures—the round fuels Z.Systems’s mission to modernize Morocco’s traditional retail sector.
Z.Systems is reshaping the retail landscape by integrating technology and innovation across the value chain. Its scalable platform empowers traditional retailers and brands with direct access to consumers, reviving competitiveness in traditional trade (hanouts), which accounts for 85% of the FMCG market.
The deal is pending regulatory approval from Morocco Competition Council.
Africa’s traditional retail sector, with over 2.5 million small, independent shops, faces significant challenges: fragmented supply chains, inefficiencies, and growing competition from modern retail formats and discount stores. With Morocco’s FMCG market estimated at $25 billion, Z.Systems is bridging the gap through a digital platform that connects retailers, brands, and distributors with consumers, fostering accessibility and innovation.
Since its launch in 2022, Z.Systems has achieved remarkable traction: over 15,000 active retailers, translating to ~85% of Greater Casablanca’s addressable market and more than 800,000 orders placed with a 95% positive rating on rated orders.
“Our platform is not just about transactions; it’s about transforming lives and creating opportunities for local retailers,” said Meriem Benabad, Founder & COO. “This funding enables us to expand our vision and accelerate our impact.”
Proceeds from the $1.05M round will support Z.Systems’s technology development, product catalogue expansion, and preparation for its next growth phase. “This funding marks a pivotal moment for Z, as we aim to scale operations and bring cutting-edge solutions to traditional retail,” said Samer Choumar, Founder & CEO. “Our vision is to empower small businesses and unlock growth across Morocco and Africa.”
Dounia Boumehdi from MNF Ventures added, “We’re excited to support Z.Systems’s innovative approach and look forward to its continued growth and momentum.”. “Z.Systems impresses with its operational efficiency and strong expertise, bringing valuable innovation to Morocco’s FMCG ecosystem”, concluded Ghita Zniber from Kalys Ventures.
