From Bulk to Sachets: Tracing Nigeria’s Sachet Economy

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In the 1980s, most Nigerian groceries stocked tins and bulk staples. Families could afford larger packs and buy in bulk. By the early 1990s, harsh economic conditions led to the rise of sachet packaging. In 1991, Cowbell introduced a 39g milk sachet for just ₦5. A year later, DIL Pure Water launched sachet water, sparking a wave across detergents, beverages and more. Today, tiny sachets dominate FMCG categories. They make products affordable in small quantities but raise the unit cost. Nigeria’s sachet economy shows how poverty can drive consumers to pay more over time.

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