Global Shop, a New York-based company, completed the acquisition of ANKA for an undisclosed amount. Matilda Ceesay serves as CEO of the acquiring company and has taken direct operational control of ANKA.
The three original founders have departed from active roles in the company. Luc B. Perussault Diallo, Moulaye Taboure, and Kadry Diallo established the platform but stepped away following the acquisition completion.
Current employees and day-to-day operations continue without major disruption. The existing infrastructure remains the foundation for ongoing platform development and expansion efforts.
Background and Business Evolution
ANKA began operations in 2016 as an Ivorian e-commerce platform focused on connecting African sellers with international buyers. The company secured more than $13 million in funding from notable investors including the International Finance Corporation.
The platform originally operated under the Afrikrea brand before undergoing a strategic rebrand to ANKA. During its time as Afrikrea, the marketplace connected thousands of African sellers to customers across more than 170 global markets.
Performance Metrics Under Previous Brand:
- Monthly website visits: 1 million
- Total transaction volume: $40 million processed
- Global market reach: 170+ countries
Following the rebrand to ANKA, the company experienced significant growth in both transaction volume and revenue generation. The platform added an additional $20 million in processed transactions. Annual revenue reached $4.1 million in 2024.
The company underwent a strategic pivot after rebranding. ANKA transformed from a traditional marketplace model to a comprehensive software-as-a-service platform. This evolution integrated multiple business functions including marketplace operations, payment processing, and logistics coordination.
Business Model Transformation
The shift to a SaaS approach yielded substantial operational improvements. Payment volume increased by 300% following the model change. The company achieved breakeven status after implementing the new business structure.
ANKA’s integrated platform addresses multiple challenges faced by African small and medium enterprises. The solution combines storefront creation, international payment processing, and global shipping capabilities. This comprehensive approach reduces barriers for African designers and manufacturers seeking to reach international customers.
Core Platform Components:
- Marketplace functionality for product listing and discovery
- Payment systems enabling international transactions
- Logistics services facilitating global shipping
- Storefront tools for seller customization
Strategic Integration Plans
The acquisition combines ANKA’s established infrastructure with Global Shop’s international network and fashion industry expertise. This merger creates expanded capabilities for serving African sellers and diaspora communities worldwide.
ANKA’s existing payment processing, logistics coordination, and seller tools provide the operational foundation for broader expansion initiatives. The platform’s proven ability to facilitate international transactions positions it for scaled growth under new ownership.
The integration focuses on strengthening support systems for African creators while expanding market reach. Enhanced operational capabilities aim to streamline seller experiences and increase customer acquisition across target demographics.
