Ninja Mart expands support for traditional retailers amid evolving retail landscape

 

NINJA Mart is strengthening support for Malaysia’s traditional retail sector through a hybrid model that combines digital tools, logistics capabilities and on-the-ground assistance, as neighbourhood grocery stores continue to play an important role in communities nationwide.

The business-to-business (B2B) distribution platform currently supports more than 16,000 active retail outlets across general trade, modern trade, petrol marts and hospitality channels, helping brands expand their reach while simplifying day-to-day operations for retailers.

Speaking during a media session at Al-Amin Fresh Mart in Kampung Kuantan, Klang, Ninja Mart Malaysia country head Denise Ang said traditional retailers remain an important part of the country’s retail ecosystem despite growing competition from modern retail formats and e-commerce platforms.

“The future of general trade will depend on practical solutions that reflect how traditional retailers actually operate,” she said.

“Kedai runcit owners are more than just retailers. They are part of the communities they serve and understand the daily needs of their customers in a way that is deeply local and relationship-driven.”

According to Ang, brands face challenges in reaching and servicing Malaysia’s highly fragmented retail landscape, which comprises thousands of independently operated stores across urban, suburban and rural communities.

For retailers, meanwhile, common operational challenges include managing inventory, coordinating deliveries, handling returns and maintaining product availability while operating with limited resources.

Ninja Mart’s platform combines app-based ordering, sales support, logistics services and field teams to help retailers manage product sourcing, delivery coordination, enquiries, returns and claims.

Ang said the company’s approach aims to address the needs of both brands and retailers.

“For brands, the challenge is not just about reaching more stores. It is about reaching them consistently, efficiently and with better visibility,” she continued.

“For retailers, the need is more practical — easier ordering, reliable support, access to relevant products and help in managing everyday store operations.”

The initiative comes as Malaysia’s retail sector continues to grow. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, retail trade sales reached RM71 billion in April 2026, representing a 6.3% year-on-year increase.

Government initiatives such as Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), which aims to expand participation among small grocery retailers to 10,000 outlets by the end of 2026, have also reinforced the role of neighbourhood stores in providing access to essential goods.

As consumer behaviour and retail channels continue to evolve, Ninja Mart said traditional retailers will remain a key component of Malaysia’s retail landscape, particularly in communities where convenience, proximity and trust continue to influence purchasing decisions. ‒  Focus  Malaysia