• Walmart to launch its own-brand stores in South Africa before year-end

• Retail giant to source from local SMEs and compete with Shoprite, Woolworths, Pick n Pay

• South Africa’s retail market grew 5.6% in 2024 to $72.6 bln, Euromonitor says

U.S. retail giant Walmart announced this week it will open its first stores under its own brand in South Africa before the end of 2025.

"This strategic move underscores Walmart's commitment to making high-quality, affordable merchandise accessible to more customers," the company said. Walmart operates more than 10,750 stores and numerous e-commerce platforms across 19 countries and has already started working with small and medium-sized African suppliers.

The South African outlets will offer a wide range of products, from fresh food to household essentials, clothing, and technology. "Walmart will also offer a variety of locally sourced products. By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, we aim to bring our signature every day low prices and global standards to the market while celebrating the country's rich culture,"  said CEO Kath McLay.

The group added that several stores are already under development and official opening dates will be announced in October.

Walmart employs about 2.1 million people worldwide and generates nearly $700 billion in annual revenue. Since 2022, it has fully owned South African retailer Massmart, which operates the Makro and Game chains and Builders Warehouse, a building materials distributor.

In South Africa, Walmart will face direct competition from established players including Shoprite, Woolworths, and Pick n Pay. In online retail, it will compete with Amazon and market leader Takealot.com.

The South African retail market grew 5.6% in 2024, reaching $72.6 billion, according to Euromonitor International.