The History of Wazobia African Market
We’re more than just a grocery store.
In 2013, Tunde Fasina opened a small general store in Houston, TX to meet the local demand for African food products and groceries. That store grew to become Wazobia African Market — a company renown for excellent service and reasonable prices. Today, our store has evolved into one of the largest African supermarkets in Houston, catering to thousands and branching out to multiple locations. Our outstanding success is a testament to our employees’ hard work and dedication and the vision of our founder. Today, Wazobia African Market is synonymous with quality, variety, value and superior customer service.
Official Launch
Wazobia African Market is officially launched on 18th of June, 2013. Our products are sourced solely from local farmers and dealers in African products.
A Game of Survival
The company struggled to stay afloat.
In the Black!
The store recorded a profit for the first time. Our sister brand, Wazobia African Kitchen is launched.
The Fun Fair Gives Back
We held our first Fun Fair for customers of both brands, giving members of the community a chance to have fun, enjoy free, delicious African meals all day and win coveted prizes including cash awards, gift vouchers and more!
Business Booms and Harvey Response
We increased 100% in volume and began to import products directly from local communities in Africa. Our Fun fair moves to a Park for the first time. Hurricane Harvey makes landfall in Texas, and we were one of the first on the scene to support the relief efforts in Houston by providing free relief packages to survivors in affected areas.
Big Moves
The storegot renovated. We signed a deal for a new branch and began construction.
Second Store is Opened and Houston takes note!
Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner, officially opened our second outleton 18th of March, 2019, gave us an award recognition for our service to the community and made a Wazobia Market Day Proclamation. The new branch became profitable within nine months (by December 2019).
Covid-19 shuts the city down
Coronavirus pandemic creates logistical and cash flow challenges. Product shortage leads to price hikes all over the country. We refused to increase our prices as a show of support to the people who are vulnerable in the community. We also handed out food to families for 2 months during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Deep Freeze and Re-branding
Houston and surrounding areas experienced an extreme weather with freezing conditions, causing disruptions and water shortage. We kept our doors open to feed as many people as possible. We re-launched a new responsive and dynamic online website as part of our digital transformation journey.