Keep It Cool is a Kenyan company founded in 2014 that addresses the challenge of food spoilage by providing sustainable and innovative refrigeration solutions tailored for small farmers and fishers. The company operates a decentralized cold storage system that helps extend the shelf life of perishable goods, thereby reducing spoilage and enhancing market access. By employing solar-powered cooling technologies, Keep It Cool enables producers to efficiently bring their products to market, thereby increasing farmers' income and promoting fair trade practices. The company has garnered investments from major organizations like the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation to expand its impact in East Africa.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Founders | Unspecified |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, USAID, Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation |
| Industry | Cold Chain Logistics, Refrigeration |
| Number of Employees | Unspecified |
Keep It Cool was founded in response to the significant challenge that farmers and fisheries face due to post-harvest losses in Africa. The lack of reliable cold storage infrastructure in many parts of the continent severely restricts the shelf life of fresh produce. Recognizing this critical gap, Keep It Cool embarked on its mission to provide affordable, accessible, and sustainable refrigeration solutions tailored for the specific needs of small-scale farmers and fishers. Initially focusing on localized cold storage solutions, the company rapidly expanded its operations due to increasing demand, utilizing solar technology to power its coolers and thus mitigating the dependency on centralized energy sources.
Keep It Cool has developed a business model focused on delivering sustainable cold chain solutions that can significantly reduce food waste and improve food security. The company creates localized refrigeration systems powered by solar energy, allowing clients to store perishable goods without relying on an unstable power grid.
Currently, Keep It Cool is at the forefront of the cold chain logistics industry in Africa, particularly in Kenya and surrounding regions. By continuing to expand its network of solar-powered cooling units, the company provides a pivotal service that bridges the gap between producers and consumers. This network helps mitigate the challenges posed by limited cold storage options and centralized power shortages, thereby facilitating improved income for farmers and reducing food wasted due to spoilage. The company’s strategic partnerships and investments enable it to expand its facilities and services, thereby strengthening its competitive edge in the market.
Keep It Cool is playing a transformative role in redefining cold chain logistics in East Africa. With its commitment to sustainability and social impact, the company not only contributes to economic growth but also fosters environmental stewardship by minimizing the carbon footprint associated with traditional cold storage solutions. As Keep It Cool continues to innovate and expand, its operations stand to make a significant impact on improving food security and agricultural productivity across the region. The organization's future trajectory seems promising, with potential to further integrate technological solutions that enhance efficiency and accessibility within the sectors it serves.