Walmart Plans Branded Stores in S. Africa

Walmart (Bentonville, Ark.) has unveiled plans to open its first branded stores in South Africa later this year. The retailer will unveil specific numbers and locales in coming months.

Until now, the retailer has operated stores by Massmart (Johannesburg), which Walmart took full ownership of in 2022 after a decade of operating as its majority owner with a 51% stake.

“We’re thrilled to begin this journey introducing the iconic Walmart brand to South African associates, customers and communities,” said Miles Van Rensburg, President and CEO of Massmart, which has 285 stores operating under several brands, including Makro and Jumbo. “… Every rand matters when it comes to price. It is this balance and mindset on quality and Every Day Low Prices that enables us to deliver and build customer trust.”

Said Kath McLay, president and CEO, Walmart International: “Walmart’s South African stores will offer a wide range of merchandise, including fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel and technology. Walmart also will offer a variety of locally sourced products. By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, Walmart will bring its signature Every Day Low Prices and global standards to the market, while celebrating the country’s rich culture.”

The move to branded stores follows Walmart’s first Growth Summit held in April in Johannesburg, which featured suppliers from 12 African countries displaying their innovations and products made, grown or assembled in Africa. The event resulted in the recruitment of several small and medium-sized Africa-based suppliers for the retailer.