The CCZ has issued a statement regarding the closure and economic struggles of formal retailers in Zimbabwe. OK recently announced it is shutting down six branches in and around Harare. While we acknowledge the impact of these closures, it's important to note that formal traders are not closing solely due to competition from informal traders. They face significantly higher overheads. Even if all informal traders were shut down, many consumers would still struggle to afford prices like US$5 for a bottle of cooking oil or US$1.10 for a loaf of bread. The prices set by formal retailers are often beyond the reach of the average Zimbabwean for various reasons. See our full coverage on the issue here: https://zimpricecheck.com/market-intelligence/ok-zimbabwe-is-not-leaving-zimbabwe-it-is-shutting-down-six-branches/ #retailchallenges #zimbabwe