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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2026

    Pila Rulashe | South Africa | 30 September 2026

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2025

    Michael Felton | South Africa | 25 February 2025

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023

    Gary Phillips | South Africa | 20 February 2023

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021

    Gary Phillips | South Africa | 19 October 2021

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2020

    Duncan Bekker | South Africa | 15 April 2020

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2018

    Duncan Bekker | South Africa | 26 June 2018

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2016

    Duncan Bekker | South Africa | 01 March 2016

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014

    Ingi Salgado | South Africa | 10 February 2014

    Report Info

    Report Summary Table of Contents
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    Report Coverage

    This report provides a comprehensive analysis of South Africa's wholesale and retail food industry, covering industry structure, market performance, the competitive landscape, key market trends, supply chain dynamics, trade patterns, and the regulatory environment. It examines the factors shaping industry development, including economic conditions, unforeseen events and disruptions, labour market dynamics, technological innovation, sustainability imperatives, and food security considerations, and assesses the industry's key opportunities, challenges, risks, and critical success factors. The report also profiles 19 notable industry participants, including Shoprite, Pick n Pay, the SPAR Group, Woolworths, Massmart, Food Lover's Market, Africa Cash and Carry, and Kit Kat Group.

    Introduction

    • South Africa's wholesale and retail food industry is the primary channel through which food products move from producers and manufacturers to consumers and is one of the country's largest and most strategically important consumer sectors.
    • According to the United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service, total retail food sales rose by about 7.4% to R983.0bn in 2025, reflecting the market's scale and resilience despite continued pressure on household incomes and consumer spending.
    • The sector comprises a broad network of wholesalers, distributors, supermarkets, convenience stores, independent retailers, and informal traders that collectively underpin food distribution, economic activity and food security across the country.
    • The industry is characterised by a concentrated formal retail market that coexists with a sizeable informal trading sector. Informal participants, including spaza shops, street vendors, informal wholesalers and township-based enterprises, play an essential role in expanding access to food and other consumer goods in underserved communities and lower-income markets.
    • Together, the formal and informal segments form an integrated, highly adaptive food distribution ecosystem that supports employment, economic inclusion, and food security.

    Strengths

    • Extensive distribution and logistics networks support nationwide market coverage and product availability.
    • Its strong formal and informal market presence extends food access to urban, township, peri-urban and rural communities.
    • Sophisticated retail capabilities, including advanced merchandising, category management, inventory control, supply chain optimisation and data-driven decision-making.
    • Strong customer engagement platforms, supported by established loyalty programmes, personalised promotions, omnichannel retailing, e-commerce and rapid-delivery services.
    • The industry is a critical contributor to food security, ensuring the efficient distribution of food products nationwide.
    • The industry supports job creation across retail, wholesale, logistics, agriculture and food processing, while generating significant consumer spending and economic activity.

    Weaknesses

    • Dependence on complex supply chains and increasing vulnerability to transport disruptions, infrastructure bottlenecks, extreme weather events and supplier challenges.
    • High levels of food loss and waste across the supply chain increase costs, reduce efficiency, undermine sustainability goals, and contribute to ongoing food security challenges.
    • High volumes of food packaging waste create environmental challenges, increase compliance costs, and place growing pressure on businesses to adopt more sustainable packaging and waste management practices.
    • The formal wholesale and retail food industry is characterised by high market concentration, with a small number of large players dominating, which creates barriers to entry for smaller competitors.
    • Uneven regulatory enforcement, particularly in the informal sector, where inadequate monitoring increases the risk of food contamination, unsafe storage practices and foodborne illness outbreaks.

    Opportunities

    • E-commerce and digital retail platforms are enabling smaller businesses to reach consumers more efficiently.
    • Expansion of informal and hybrid retail channels is creating accessible routes to market for emerging suppliers.
    • Expansion of private-label ranges is increasing procurement opportunities for local food producers.
    • Food waste recovery, recycling and composting.
    • Growing consumer interest in sustainable, organic and ethically sourced products offers opportunities for product differentiation.
    • Growing demand for locally sourced products is creating new opportunities for domestic suppliers and manufacturers.
    • Growth in township and rural markets is opening new avenues for retail expansion and supplier participation.
    • Increasing demand for affordable ready-to-eat and convenience meals is supporting growth in foodservice and packaged food categories.
    • Regional export opportunities through AfCFTA
    • Rising demand for health, wellness and convenience foods is creating opportunities for innovative and value-added products.
    • Technology-enabled business models, including cloud kitchens, direct-to-consumer sales and last-mile delivery, are creating growth avenues.

    Threats

    • Climate change and extreme weather events threaten agricultural production, food supply stability and food security.
    • Cybersecurity risks are becoming more significant as retailers expand digital payment systems, online shopping platforms and cloud-based operations.
    • Escalating geopolitical risks and trade tariff uncertainties threaten global food supply chains, increase input costs and may reduce procurement flexibility for wholesalers and retailers.
    • Food safety, traceability and regulatory compliance risks pose a threat to public health.
    • Food security and affordability challenges continue to constrain consumer access to nutritious food.
    • Intensifying competition from major retailers, discounters, wholesalers, online platforms and independent operators is increasing pricing pressure.
    • Rising operating costs, including fuel, electricity, labour, security and municipal charges, are placing pressure on margins.
    • Social unrest and tensions between local and foreign-owned informal retailers periodically result in violence, business disruption and looting in informal trading environments.
    • Supply chain disruptions and input cost volatility may affect product availability, inventory levels and profitability.

    Outlook

    • Economic conditions are expected to remain a key determinant of sector performance. Modest economic growth, elevated unemployment and pressure on household disposable incomes are likely to reinforce value-conscious consumer behaviour, supporting continued growth in discount retail formats, private-label products, bulk purchasing and promotional shopping. Cost pressures from fuel, logistics, electricity, labour and imported products are expected to persist, creating ongoing challenges for retailers, wholesalers and suppliers.
    • Large retailers are expected to continue expanding into underserved markets through smaller store formats, convenience outlets and partnerships with informal traders. However, existing operators may resist this expansion.
    • Attention is increasingly focused on building locally owned enterprises and strengthening participation throughout the value chain. As Vusi Vokwana, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kasi Catalyst, noted, meaningful transformation requires participation beyond the retail endpoint and into higher-value activities such as wholesale distribution, logistics, warehousing, procurement and supply chain management, where the industry generates a greater share of value and margins.
    • Technology, digitalisation and changing consumer preferences are expected to reshape competition over the coming years. Retailers will continue to invest in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, automation, e-commerce platforms and omnichannel capabilities to improve customer experience, inventory management and supply chain efficiency.
    • Rapid-delivery services, personalised promotions and digital payment technologies are likely to become increasingly important competitive differentiators.
    • Sustainability considerations, including reducing food waste, improving packaging recyclability, strengthening local sourcing and investing in renewable energy, are also expected to gain prominence as retailers respond to regulatory requirements, investor expectations and consumer demand for more environmentally responsible business practices.
    • Climate-related risks will remain an important source of uncertainty for the sector. Increasingly frequent droughts, floods, heatwaves and other extreme weather events can disrupt agricultural production, affect food availability and contribute to price volatility. The anticipated 2026/27 El Niño event highlights food supply chains' vulnerability to climatic conditions.
    • Retailers and wholesalers are expected to place greater emphasis on supplier diversification, inventory optimisation, local procurement and sustainability initiatives to strengthen long-term resilience and food security.

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry
    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2026

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    R 20 000.00(ZAR) estimated $1207.35 (USD)*

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    Industry Landscape

    R 14 000.00(ZAR) estimated $ 845.15 (USD)*

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    Industry Organogram

    R 450.00(ZAR) estimated $ 27.17 (USD)*

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    Historical Reports

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2025-02-25

    R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $573.49 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023-02-20

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021-10-19

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2020-04-15

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2018-06-26

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2016-03-01

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014-02-10

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    Table of Contents

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    PAGE
    EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
    1. INTRODUCTION 8
    2. OVERVIEW OF THE INDUSTRY 8
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 14
    2.2. Regulatory and Policy Environment 20
    2.3. Geographic Position 22
    2.4. Market Size and Notable Players 24
    3. LOCAL 31
    3.1. State of the Industry 31
    3.2. Key Trends 41
    3.3. Key Challenges and Risks 42
    3.4. Performance of Notable Players 43
    3.5. Trade 48
    3.6. Corporate Actions 54
    3.7. Enterprise Development and Social Development 54
    4. AFRICA 59
    5. INTERNATIONAL 67
    6. INFLUENCING FACTORS 72
    6.1. Unforeseen Events 72
    6.2. Economic Environment 75
    6.3. Input Costs 77
    6.4. Labour 78
    6.5. Environmental Concerns 80
    6.6. Technology, R&D, Innovation 82
    6.7. Government Support 84
    7. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT 85
    7.1. Competition 85
    7.2. Ownership Structure of the Industry 87
    7.3. Barriers to Entry 87
    8. OUTLOOK 88
    9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 89
    10. REFERENCES 90
    10.1. Publications 90
    ANNEXURE 1 93
    Relevant Industry Legislation 93
    ANNEXURE 2 96
    Relevant Harmonised System (HS) Codes 96
    APPENDIX 1 97
    Summary of Profiled Players 97
    COMPANY PROFILES 103
    AFRICA CASH AND CARRY (CROWN MINES) (PTY) LTD 103
    BIG SAVE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE (PTY) LTD 105
    BUYING EXCHANGE COMPANY (PTY) LTD (THE) 107
    CONSOLIDATED STORE HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 109
    DEVLAND CASH AND CARRY (PTY) LTD 112
    ELITE STAR TRADING 56 (PTY) LTD 114
    FOOD LOVERS HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 116
    INDEPENDENT BUYING CONSORTIUM (PTY) LTD 121
    KIT KAT GROUP (PTY) LTD 123
    MASSMART HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 125
    MILLAT CONVENIENCE (PTY) LTD 129
    PICK N PAY STORES LTD 131
    PREMJEE CASH AND CARRY (PTY) LTD 136
    SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LTD 138
    SPAR GROUP LTD (THE) 143
    SUBTROPICO LTD 148
    UNITRADE MANAGEMENT SERVICES (PTY) LTD 151
    WELLNESS WAREHOUSE (PTY) LTD 153
    WOOLWORTHS (PTY) LTD 157

    Report Coverage

    This report on the wholesale and retail of food in South Africa includes comprehensive information on wholesalers and retailers, informal traders and buying groups. Aspects covered include retail, food and wholesale revenue, volumes, consumption, employment, food prices and food security. It also examines major trends such as discount retail and online platforms, and provides information and updates on notable players and corporate actions. There are profiles of 18 companies such as major players Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Woolworths and Spar, and wholesalers, distributors and buying groups such as Devland, Elite Star Trading and Kit Kat.

    Introduction

    • Food wholesale and retail is a cornerstone of the economy, playing a pivotal role in food distribution, job creation and food security.
    • The industry operates through interconnected players with distinct roles, including corporate and independent wholesalers, hybrid models, formal retailers and informal traders.
    • The industry is dominated by large, well-established retail players.
    • Key trends include ecommerce growth, with online platforms expanding rapidly.
    • Trends are driven by consumer demand for convenience, prioritising local sourcing and sustainable packaging, growing sales of private-label products, integration of informal traders, investments in renewable energy and cold chain management.

    Trends

    • Adoption of AI and machine learning.
    • Consumer price sensitivity and shift toward value-for-money products.
    • Enhanced loyalty programmes.
    • Expanding selection of plant-based and vegan products.
    • Expansion of discount-focused retail chains.
    • Food waste reduction initiatives.
    • Formal retailers are exploring partnerships with spaza shops.
    • Growing preference for locally-produced food.
    • Growth in convenience stores and small-format outlets.
    • Growth in eco-friendly packaging.
    • Growth in store-brand products.
    • Increase in consumers buying in bulk.
    • Increased demand for organic, gluten-free, and low-sugar products.
    • Integrating stores and platforms, with click-and-collect or delivery services.
    • Large retailers expanding into underserved small towns, township and rural areas.
    • Online shopping growth.

    Opportunities

    • Collaboration with spaza shops
    • Convenience market expansion.
    • Expansion into underserved areas.
    • Growth of ecommerce.
    • Growth of private labels.
    • Healthier options such as organic, gluten-free and fortified foods.
    • Indigenous and niche products.
    • Innovation in technology.
    • Last-mile delivery and partnerships with delivery platforms.
    • Ready-to-eat and pre-prepared meals.
    • Renewable energy investment.
    • Sourcing products from local farmers and suppliers.
    • Sustainable packaging and organic products.
    • Vegan and plant-based products.

    Challenges

    • Climate change, water scarcity and waste management.
    • Consumer behaviour changes.
    • Demand for sustainability.
    • Dominance of large retailers.
    • Economic volatility and uncertainty.
    • Global and local supply chain volatility.
    • Informal sector competition.
    • Logistical inefficiencies.
    • Market saturation in urban areas.
    • Ongoing competition law scrutiny.
    • Operational disruptions and cold chain breakdowns.
    • Regulatory and compliance burden.
    • Rising food prices and input costs.
    • Shift to ecommerce.
    • Skills shortages.
    • Technological barriers.

    Outlook

    • The industry faces a mixed outlook, with challenges such as market saturation and maturity and low economic growth limiting growth.
    • Opportunities shaped by evolving consumer behaviour, technological advancements, ecommerce, discount retail and sustainability are stimulating growth.
    • Online shopping and omnichannel models are expected to continue to evolve, with retailers investing heavily in ecommerce platforms and delivery logistics to meet demand.
    • The industry is expected to benefit from a rise in consumer spending after several challenging years, with discount retailers expected to perform well.
    • Large retailers continue to expand their footprint in townships, rural areas, and low-income neighbourhoods.

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry
    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2025

    Full Report

    R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $573.49 (USD)*

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    Industry Landscape

    R 6 650.00(ZAR) estimated $ 401.45 (USD)*

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    Historical Reports

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2026-09-30

    R 20 000.00(ZAR) estimated $1207.35 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023-02-20

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021-10-19

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2020-04-15

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2018-06-26

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2016-03-01

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014-02-10

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    Table of Contents

    [ Close ]
    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 6
    2.2. Geographic Position 7
    2.3. Size of the Industry 8
    3. LOCAL 16
    3.1. State of the Industry 16
    3.2. Key Trends 25
    3.3. Key Issues 26
    3.4. Notable Players 26
    3.5. Trade 33
    3.6. Corporate Actions 34
    3.7. Regulations 36
    3.8. Enterprise Development and Social Development 38
    4. AFRICA 42
    5. INTERNATIONAL 46
    6. INFLUENCING FACTORS 51
    6.1. Unforeseen Events 51
    6.2. Food Safety Concerns 52
    6.3. Economic Environment 53
    6.4. Labour 55
    6.5. Environmental Issues 57
    6.6. Technology, R&D and Innovation 58
    6.7. Input Costs 59
    7. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT 60
    7.1. Competition 60
    7.2. Ownership Structure of the Industry 62
    7.3. Barriers to Entry 63
    8. INDUSTRY SUMMARY 64
    9. OUTLOOK 65
    10. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 66
    11. REFERENCES 66
    11.1. Publications 66
    11.2. Websites 68
    Annexure 1 70
    Industry Legislation and Regulations 70
    Appendix 1 73
    Summary of Notable Players 73
    COMPANY PROFILES 77
    AFRICA CASH AND CARRY (CROWN MINES) (PTY) LTD 77
    BIG SAVE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE (PTY) LTD 79
    BUYING EXCHANGE COMPANY (PTY) LTD (THE) 81
    CONSOLIDATED STORE HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 83
    DEVLAND CASH AND CARRY (PTY) LTD 86
    ELITE STAR TRADING 56 (PTY) LTD 88
    FOOD LOVERS HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 90
    INDEPENDENT BUYING CONSORTIUM (PTY) LTD 94
    KIT KAT GROUP (PTY) LTD 96
    MASSMART HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 98
    MILLAT CONVENIENCE (PTY) LTD 114
    PICK N PAY STORES LTD 116
    PREMJEE CASH AND CARRY (PTY) LTD 136
    SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LTD 138
    SPAR GROUP LTD (THE) 248
    SUBTROPICO LTD 321
    UNITRADE MANAGEMENT SERVICES (PTY) LTD 324
    WELLNESS WAREHOUSE (PTY) LTD 326
    WOOLWORTHS (PTY) LTD 330

    Report Coverage

    This report on the wholesale and retail of food in South Africa includes comprehensive information on the state and size of the sector, the major players, developments, food and other input prices, economic factors, the presence of South African companies on the continent and the development of online delivery. There are profiles of 20 companies including the major retailers Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Spar and Massmart and wholesalers, cash and carry and buying groups including Africa Cash and Carry, Devland Cash and Carry, ICC Buying Group and Unitrade.

    Introduction

    • The wholesale and retail of food in South African generates well over R1.2tn in revenue, and even more including the growing but hard to quantify informal food trade.
    • Food retail is concentrated and dominated by four national, vertically integrated companies that control more than half the market.
    • Facing reducing returns in a mature, saturated South African urban market and African investments that have produced mixed results, retailers have invested in strategies to lower prices, differentiate stores and find new markets in small towns, rural areas, and townships.
    • Food wholesalers, independent retailers, and informal traders, under pressure from this retail expansion, have adopted new strategies to attract consumers.
    • The biggest risk to the success of these responses is the ability of consumers to continue to spend in a low growth, high inflation and high unemployment environment.

    Strengths

    • A large and growing informal sector with strong linkages to formal wholesale supply.
    • A strong regional presence in Southern Africa.
    • Capability for rapid increase in ecommerce trading.
    • Growing population and stable food demand.
    • Relatively high formal sector participation and extensive supermarket footprint throughout the country.
    • Resilient companies with expertise and experience operating in a challenging trading environment.
    • Very well-developed and efficient supply chains and logistics networks.

    Weaknesses

    • Highly dependent on economic growth to support consumer spending beyond essential purchases.
    • Increasing competition and relatively high barriers to entry in urban areas and shopping centres.
    • Informal sector very sensitive to shocks and vulnerable to supply interruptions.
    • Lack of skills.
    • Market is increasingly mature and saturated.
    • Relatively thin trading margins with profit growth primarily supported by streamlining and cost-cutting.

    Opportunities

    • Enforcement of the findings of the Competition Commission’s grocery retail market inquiry and the agreements of the Agricultural and Agro-Processing Master Plan can open opportunities for smaller players.
    • Expanding convenience market, forecourt retail, and pre-prepared meals.
    • Market share growth among affluent consumers.
    • Private label brand growth.
    • Rapid population growth, urbanisation, and rise of the middle-class in regional Africa to boost demand for food and modern shopping.
    • Rapidly expanding online shopping demand, initiated by the pandemic
    • Roll out of discounters, franchises, and corporate spaza shops to grow formal market participation.

    Threats

    • Continued poor economic growth and rising unemployment is affecting consumer spending.
    • Digital disruption from innovative online retailers.
    • Growing competition in all market segments.
    • Large retailers’ investment exposure to risks associated with volatile African markets.
    • Traders facing rising input and operating costs but being unable to pass costs onto price-conscious consumers.

    Outlook

    • Wholesale and retail of food in South Africa needs a rise in consumer spending after three tough years in which unforeseen events have dampened economic recovery from the pandemic.
    • While the industry is resilient, well-capitalised, has strong leadership, and is innovating to protect margins and stimulate consumer demand, it needs a recovery in economic growth and wealth.
    • The threat of a global recession, political turmoil, and the electricity crisis make it unclear whether consumer spending will increase.
    • The continued pace of innovative investments in the supply chain, services, store footprints, online retail and new store formats will be vital in securing a positive outlook for the industry.

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry
    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023

    Full Report

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

    Buy Now +

    Industry Landscape

    R 1 330.00(ZAR) estimated $ 80.29 (USD)*

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    Historical Reports

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2026-09-30

    R 20 000.00(ZAR) estimated $1207.35 (USD)*

    View Report Add to Cart

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2025-02-25

    R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $573.49 (USD)*

    View Report Add to Cart

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021-10-19

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

    View Report Add to Cart

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2020-04-15

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2018-06-26

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2016-03-01

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014-02-10

    R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.70 (USD)*

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    Table of Contents

    [ Close ]
    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 5
    2.2. Geographic Position 6
    2.3. Size of the Industry 7
    3. LOCAL 11
    3.1. State of the Industry 11
    3.2. Key Trends 14
    3.3. Key Issues 19
    3.4. Notable Players 23
    3.5. Trade 29
    3.6. Corporate Actions 30
    3.7. Regulations 33
    3.8. Enterprise Development and Social Development 33
    4. AFRICA 35
    5. INTERNATIONAL 40
    6. INFLUENCING FACTORS 42
    6.1. Unforeseen Events 42
    6.2. Economic Environment 43
    6.3. Labour 44
    6.4. Environmental Issues 47
    6.5. Technology, R&D, Innovation 47
    6.6. Government Support 49
    6.7. Input Costs 49
    7. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT 51
    7.1. Competition 51
    7.2. Ownership Structure of the Industry 52
    7.3. Barriers to Entry 53
    8. SWOT ANALYSIS 54
    9. OUTLOOK 55
    10. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 55
    11. REFERENCES 55
    11.1. Publications 55
    11.2. Websites 56
    APPENDIX 1 58
    Summary of Notable Players 58
    COMPANY PROFILES 62
    Africa Cash and Carry (Crown Mines) (Pty) Ltd 62
    Big Save Distribution Centre (Pty) Ltd 63
    Buying Exchange Company (Pty) Ltd (The) 65
    Consolidated Store Holdings (Pty) Ltd 67
    Devland Cash and Carry (Pty) Ltd 70
    Elite Star Trading 56 (Pty) Ltd 72
    Food Lovers Holdings (Pty) Ltd 74
    ICC Buying Group (Pty) Ltd 78
    Independent Buying Consortium (Pty) Ltd 80
    Kit Kat Group (Pty) Ltd 82
    Massmart Holdings Ltd 85
    Millat Convenience (Pty) Ltd 91
    Pick n Pay Stores Ltd 93
    Premjee Cash and Carry (Pty) Ltd 98
    Shoprite Holdings Ltd 100
    SPAR Group Ltd (The) 106
    Subtropico Ltd 112
    Unitrade Management Services (Pty) Ltd 116
    Wellness Warehouse (Pty) Ltd 118
    Woolworths (Pty) Ltd 122

    Report Coverage

    This report focuses on the wholesale and retail of food in South Africa. It includes comprehensive information on the size and state of the sector, the performance and developments of notable players and the major factors influencing the sector. There are profiles of 19 companies including major players such as Shoprite, Pick n Pay and Woolworths and Massmart, notable private companies such as Food Lovers and Wellness Warehouse, and cash and carry companies such as Africa Cash and Carry.

    Introduction

    The wholesale and retail trade of food in South Africa jointly generated revenue of just under R950bn in 2020. When factoring in the growing but hard to quantify informal food trade, revenues could be in excess of R1.1-trillion. The lion’s share of this revenue belongs to the formal food retailers dominated by national corporate supermarket chains who play the biggest role in shaping South Africa’s entire food system. Major companies have benefitted from the nearly three decades of a rapidly-growing South African middle class, the development of centralised distribution and application of new supply chain and logistics technologies, and the rapid growth of malls. The South African food retail sector is now defined by nationwide high-quality food supply, market concentration and maturity in its growth patterns. Food retail has come to account for more than half of all retail sales in South Africa. National supermarket chains and their development over the past few decades have also had a fundamental impact on the shape and functioning of the food wholesale and upstream food processing and agricultural industries. The strength and resilience of the food retail industry in adequately supplying South Africa was evident during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 (despite the restrictions on consumers and businesses) and the widespread unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng in July 2021 (despite the disruption to trading, property, stock levels and supply lines). The vulnerability of the industry, however, has been seen in the challenge of weakening consumer spending power and saturation in supermarket and shopping centre supply in major urban areas. This saturation has driven retailers to invest in Africa and in South Africa’s small towns, rural areas and townships. South Africa’s biggest food retailers have become Africa’s biggest food retailers but the results of this expansion have been mixed and strategy adjustments abound. The seeking of new markets in South Africa’s margins has prompted resilient responses from wholesalers, independent retailers and informal food traders who have long occupied these regions but found their livelihoods threatened by supermarket and mall expansion. One innovative result has been the “hybridisation” of food wholesale into retail resulting in a blurring of channels of supply. While feeling their way to better margins under these dynamics, the food retailers and hybrids were provided with an unexpected positive development: the huge increase in demand for online grocery shopping during the coronavirus pandemic. While the long-term impact of this sudden increase in online grocery retailing is not yet clear, many maintain that a fundamental shift has taken place and the migration of shoppers online will continue and unlock new avenues of value for food wholesale and retail.

    Strengths

    • A large and growing informal sector with strong linkages to formal wholesale supply.
    • A strong regional presence in Southern Africa.
    • Capability for rapid adoption of ecommerce trading.
    • Growing population and stable food demand.
    • One of the largest private sector employment industries.
    • Relatively high formal sector participation and extensive supermarket footprint throughout the country.
    • Resilient companies with expertise and experience operating in a challenging trading environment.
    • Very well-developed and efficient supply chains and logistics networks.

    Weaknesses

    • Highly dependent on economic growth to support consumer spending beyond essential purchases.
    • Increasing competition and relatively high barriers to entry in urban areas and shopping centres.
    • Informal sector markets very sensitive to shocks and vulnerable to supply interruptions.
    • Lack of skills.
    • Market is increasingly mature and saturated, and organic growth is slowing.
    • Relatively thin trading margins with profit growth primarily supported by streamlining and cost-cutting.
    • Susceptible to volatility in agricultural production as well as drought and other natural disasters.

    Opportunities

    • Enforcement of the findings of the Competition Commission’s inquiry and the agreements of the Agricultural and Agro-Processing Master Plan can open opportunities for smaller players.
    • Expanding convenience market, forecourt retail, and pre-prepared meals.
    • Expansion into value-added and financial services.
    • Market share growth among affluent consumers.
    • Private label brand growth.
    • Rapid population growth, urbanisation, and rise of the middle-class in regional Africa to boost demand for food and modern shopping.
    • Rapidly expanding online shopping demand, initiated by the coronavirus pandemic
    • Roll out of discounters, franchises, and corporate spaza shops to grow formal market participation.

    Threats

    • Concerns regarding land reform and expropriation without compensation.
    • Continued poor economic growth and rising unemployment may affect consumer spending.
    • Coronavirus outbreak and economic lockdown may result in significant long-term impact on economy, employment, and incomes.
    • Digital disruption from innovative online retailers.
    • Growing competition in all market segments.
    • Large retailers investment exposure to risks associated with volatile African markets
    • Traders facing rising input and operating costs but being unable to pass costs onto price-conscious consumers.

    Outlook

    Food wholesale and retail developed into a trillion rand industry off the back of growing wealth of the middle class with increasing real spending power and increasing sophistication of preferences. This has facilitated the rise of supermarkets and the spread of shopping centres. However, since 2008 consumer spending has been suppressed and the retail industry has reached maturity and saturation as has mall development. The spread of supermarkets into the rest of Africa as a response has had mixed to poor results while the spread of supermarkets and retail centres into South Africa’s small towns, townships and rural areas has brought immense pressure to bear on independent retailers, cash and carry wholesalers and informal traders. More recently there has been an increased focus on market segments expected to deliver relatively higher returns or provide a competitive advantage, such as fresh and private label products, ecommerce, and convenience and value-added services. But the importance of growing consumer spending power and habits was highlighted again through the economic shocks of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and the country’s slow recovery in 2021. Without strong growth in real consumer spending, market opportunities are likely to remain limited with an increasing number of retailers chasing the small high end of the market and competition for the low end of the market threatening the viability of smaller players. Despite the challenges of maturity, saturation and suppressed consumer spending, the food wholesale and retail industry has shown remarkable capacity for innovation and shifts, and the successful entry and growth of new players, while it has significant capital to test possibilities. For this reason, and the hope of real increases in household wealth and spending power, that the outlook of the industry looks bright.

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    Table of Contents

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    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 2
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 8
    2.2. Geographic Position 9
    3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 13
    4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 16
    4.1. Local 16
    4.1.1. Trade 28
    4.1.2. Corporate Actions 30
    4.1.3. Regulations 30
    4.1.4. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 31
    4.2. Continental 33
    4.3. International 39
    5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 40
    5.1. Coronavirus 40
    5.2. Economic Environment 48
    5.3. Impact of the July 2021 Unrest 50
    5.4. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 52
    5.5. Rising Input Costs 53
    5.6. Environmental Concerns 55
    5.7. Labour 55
    6. COMPETITION 61
    6.1. Barriers to Entry 62
    7. SWOT ANALYSIS 63
    8. OUTLOOK 64
    9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 65
    10. REFERENCES 65
    9.1. Publications 65
    9.2. Websites 66
    APPENDIX 1 67
    Summary of Notable players 67
    COMPANY PROFILES 71
    AFRICA CASH AND CARRY (CROWN MINES) (PTY) LTD 71
    BIG SAVE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE (PTY) LTD 72
    BUYING EXCHANGE COMPANY (PTY) LTD (THE) 74
    CONSOLIDATED STORE HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 76
    DEVLAND CASH AND CARRY (PTY) LTD 79
    ELITE STAR TRADING 56 (PTY) LTD 81
    FOOD LOVERS HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 83
    ICC BUYING GROUP (PTY) LTD 87
    INDEPENDENT BUYING CONSORTIUM (PTY) LTD 88
    KIT KAT GROUP (PTY) LTD 90
    MASSMART HOLDINGS LTD 92
    PICK N PAY STORES LTD 98
    PREMJEE CASH AND CARRY (PTY) LTD 103
    SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LTD 105
    SPAR GROUP LTD (THE) 111
    SUBTROPICO LTD 117
    UNITRADE MANAGEMENT SERVICES (PTY) LTD 120
    WELLNESS WAREHOUSE (PTY) LTD 122
    WOOLWORTHS (PTY) LTD 125

    Report Coverage

    This report examines South Africa’s wholesale and retail market for food, with a particular focus on the country’s large supermarkets. It includes comprehensive information on the state and size of the sector and its major players, and influencing factors including the effect of coronavirus, the rise of online shopping and the increasing importance of technology. There are profiles of 10 companies including the dominant retailers Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Spar and Woolworths, as well as FoodLovers Holdings, fresh produce market agent Subtropico and specialist player Wellness Warehouse.

    Introduction

    This report examines South Africa’s wholesale and retail market for food, with a particular focus on the country’s large supermarkets. Retail grocery sales totalled over R580bn in 2019 and the industry is led by four large retailers: Shoprite, Spar, Pick n Pay, and Woolworths. Food retailers are among the leading private sector employers in the country and the total industry provides employment for around 450,000 people. A bustling informal food trade operates alongside the supermarkets and wider formal sector. The industry is increasingly mature and competitive and has been negatively affected by South Africa’s protracted struggle with low GDP growth, high unemployment and constrained consumer spending. The outbreak of the coronavirus has seen a spike in food sales, but the longer-term impact of the crisis may have an adverse effect on food retailers. South Africa’s competition authorities recently made a number of recommendations to promote competition in the industry, with potentially significant effects for the market’s overall structure.

    Strengths

    • Growing population and stable food demand.
    • Large commercial farmers and food suppliers; over 90% local sourcing and net food exports.
    • One of the largest private sector employment industries.
    • Relatively high formal sector participation and extensive supermarket footprint throughout the country.
    • Resilient companies with expertise and experience operating in a challenging trading environment.
    • Strong presence in regional Africa.
    • Very well developed and efficient supply chains and logistics networks.

    Weaknesses

    • Highly dependent on economic growth to support consumer spending beyond essential purchases.
    • Increasing competition and relatively high barriers to entry in urban areas and shopping centres.
    • Lack of skills.
    • Market is increasingly mature and organic growth is slowing.
    • Relatively thin trading margins with profit growth primarily supported by streamlining and cost-cutting.
    • Susceptible to volatility in agricultural production as well as drought and other natural disasters.

    Opportunities

    • Expanding convenience market, forecourt retail, and pre-prepared meals.
    • Expansion into value-added and financial services.
    • Growing market for online shopping.
    • Market share growth among affluent consumers.
    • Online grocery shopping participation to be driven by coronavirus outbreak.
    • Private label brand growth.
    • Rapid population growth, urbanisation, and rise of the middle-class in regional Africa to boost demand for food and modern shopping.
    • Roll out of discounters, franchises, and corporate spaza shops to grow formal market participation.

    Threats

    • Competition inquiry, recommendations, and potential regulations may have far-reaching implications for the structure and efficiency of the market.
    • Concerns regarding land reform and expropriation without compensation.
    • Continued poor economic growth and rising unemployment may pressure consumer spending.
    • Coronavirus outbreak and economic lockdown may result in significant long-term impact on economy, employment, and incomes.
    • Digital disruption from innovative online retailers.
    • Growing competition in all market segments.
    • Rising input and operating costs; unable to pass costs onto price-conscious consumers.

    Outlook

    The grocery sector is maturing and, as organic growth has slowed, supermarkets have been adversely affected by South Africa’s stagnant economy, high unemployment, rising operating costs, and generally constrained consumer spending. Nevertheless, the leading food retailers have, with some important exceptions, continued to deliver relatively strong results despite the challenging trading environment. Sales growth is being supported by store expansions and heavy investment in technology, supply chains, and operational efficiencies. There is also an increased focus on market segments expected to deliver relatively higher returns or provide a competitive advantage, such as fresh and private label products, e-commerce, and a host of convenience and value-added services. However, competition and expenses are growing, and supermarkets are seldom able to realise meaningful price increases given the wider pressures on consumers; none expect trading conditions to ease in the medium-term. The outbreak of the coronavirus and the resulting five-week lockdown of the economy have seen a sharp rise in food demand, with supermarkets’ sales volume increasing more than 20% year-on-year. However, retail analysts expect demand to normalise in the coming months, and the boom may give way to a decline if the outbreak and lockdown have a significant effect on incomes. An increasing number of economists predict a relatively severe South African and global recession in the wake of the virus, which may deepen many of the structural challenges facing the grocery industry.

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023-02-20

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021-10-19

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2018-06-26

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2016-03-01

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014-02-10

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    Table of Contents

    [ Close ]
    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
    2.2. Geographic Position 4
    3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 5
    4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 6
    4.1. Local 6
    4.1.1. Coronavirus 25
    4.1.2. Corporate Actions 30
    4.1.3. Regulations 31
    4.1.4. Enterprise Development and Socio-Economic Development 33
    4.2. Continental 34
    4.3. International 39
    5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 40
    5.1. Economic Environment 40
    5.2. Input Costs 41
    5.3. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 42
    5.4. Labour 44
    5.5. Environmental Concerns 46
    5.6. Household Food Expenditure 46
    5.7. Consumer Preferences 48
    6. COMPETITION 49
    6.1. Barriers to Entry 51
    7. SWOT ANALYSIS 52
    8. OUTLOOK 53
    9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 54
    10. REFERENCES 54
    10.1. Publications 54
    10.2. Websites 55
    APPENDIX 1 57
    Summary of Notable Players 57
    COMPANY PROFILES 61
    BIG SAVE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE (PTY) LTD 61
    CHOPPIES ENTERPRISES LTD 63
    FOOD LOVERS HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 71
    MASSMART HOLDINGS LTD 74
    PICK N PAY STORES LTD 79
    SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LTD 84
    SPAR GROUP LTD (THE) 89
    SUBTROPICO LTD 95
    WELLNESS WAREHOUSE (PTY) LTD 98
    WOOLWORTHS (PTY) LTD 101

    Report Coverage

    The report on the wholesale and retail of food examines current conditions, the strategies employed to increase market share and factors that influence the success of the highly competitive sector. Profiles for ten companies are included in this comprehensive report. Apart from the “Big Five”, Shoprite, Pick 'n Pay, SPAR, Massmart and Woolworths, there are profiles for Wellness Warehouse (Pty) Ltd, which has 29 stores, including one online store, and Choppies Enterprises Ltd, which secured approval to acquire 21 retail stores owned by South African firm, Jwayelani Retail during 2016.

    Introduction

    This report focuses on the wholesale and retail of food in South Africa, with a particular focus on the country's large supermarkets. Retail sales of food at general dealers and supermarkets totalled R439bn in 2017 with a further R84bn in food, tobacco and beverages being sold in specialised stores. The sector provides employment for some 400,000 people. A bustling informal food trade operates alongside the formal sector and provides significant employment. The industry is dominated by a handful of large retailers including Shoprite, Pick 'n Pay, SPAR, Woolworths and Massmart. The sector has seen relatively muted growth for a number of years owing to poor macroeconomic conditions, and constrained consumer spending. Despite difficult trading conditions, South African grocery firms continued to invest in new stores and distribution centres in 2017 while attempting to win market share through innovation.

    Strengths

    • High levels of supermarket penetration and retail participation.
    • Resilient major players are able to produce competent results even in challenging trading environment.
    • Significant contribution to employment.
    • Strong presence in continental Africa.
    • Very well-developed supply chains and logistics networks.

    Weaknesses

    • Highly dependent on disposable income and economic growth.
    • Lack of skills.
    • Larger firms face relatively high barriers to entry.
    • Market maturity and thin trading margins.
    • Susceptible to volatility in agricultural sector.

    Opportunities

    • African economic growth and emerging middle class will drive food demand.
    • Expanding convenience market including forecourt stores.
    • Expansion into value-added and financial services.
    • Expansion of private label brands.
    • Increasing market for online retailing.
    • Market share growth in the middle- and upper-market.
    • Potential to formalise the large informal market.

    Threats

    • Competition Commission inquiry may have far-reaching implications for the structure of the market.
    • Continued slow economic growth and high unemployment will pressure consumer spending.
    • Increasing food prices can pressure volume growth.
    • Increasing input and operating costs.
    • Land reform destabilising the agricultural supply base.

    Outlook

    Grocery retail has remained negatively affected by slow economic growth, high unemployment and generally constrained consumer spending. Despite this challenging business environment, the majority of food retailers have managed to achieve increases in turnover and profit in recent years. Grocery firms are increasingly looking to compete for wealthy consumers with mounting investment in convenience stores and products, including premium fresh fruit and meat. The roll-out of value-added services is also a key pillar of future strategy according to Pick 'n Pay CEO Richard Brasher. Despite increasing price competition and marginal market share shifts between players, all of the large retailers are pursuing expansion strategies while focusing on efficiencies in their supply chains. Supply chain management and the reduction of operating costs represent “the next competitive frontier,” according to Trade Intelligence. Grocery firms have welcomed South Africa's new political leadership, hoping that increasing consumer confidence will help buoy the segment. The impact of the GDP contraction in Q1 2018 remains unclear but the majority of large retailers continue to forecast muted growth in the medium term as “the shine around President Cyril Ramaphosa's election begins to wear off.” Shoprite CEO, Pieter Engelbrecht, stated, “We no longer consider poor trading environments as exceptional and accept that difficult conditions are the prevailing milieu.”

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023-02-20

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021-10-19

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2020-04-15

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2016-03-01

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014-02-10

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    Table of Contents

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    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
    2.2. Geographic Position 4
    3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 5
    4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 8
    4.1. Local 8
    4.1.1. Corporate Actions 19
    4.1.2. Regulations 20
    4.1.3. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 22
    4.2. Continental 24
    4.3. International 26
    5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 27
    5.1. Economic Environment 27
    5.2. Price Increases 28
    5.3. Consumer Preferences 30
    5.4. Labour 30
    5.5. Environmental Concerns 32
    5.6. Ethical Trading and Governance 33
    5.7. Technology, Research and Development (R&D) and Innovation 33
    6. COMPETITION 35
    6.1. Barriers to Entry 40
    7. SWOT ANALYSIS 41
    8. OUTLOOK 41
    9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 42
    10. REFERENCES 42
    10.1. Publications 42
    10.2. Websites 43
    COMPANY PROFILES 44
    BIG SAVE DISTRIBUTION CENTRE (PTY) LTD 44
    CHOPPIES ENTERPRISES LTD 46
    FOOD LOVERS HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 55
    MASSMART HOLDINGS LTD 58
    PICK N PAY STORES LTD 64
    SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LTD 69
    SPAR GROUP LTD (THE) 74
    SUBTROPICO LTD 79
    WELLNESS WAREHOUSE (PTY) LTD 83
    WOOLWORTHS (PTY) LTD 86

    Report Coverage

    The South African Food Retail report examines current conditions and key trends in the industry, including the consolidation and market share growth of the largest players, and their commitment to cutting costs through extensive management of their supply chains. The dominant large retailers, Shoprite, Pick ‘n Pay, SPAR, Woolworths and Massmart are profiled, as are four other role players including Fruit and Veg City, which while a relatively small player, has grown rapidly as a force in the retail of fresh produce.

    Introduction

    This report focuses on South Africa's retail food sector, with particular emphasis placed upon the large supermarkets as well as the major grocery product lines. The retail food sector was worth some R400bn in 2014 while the informal market is estimated to be worth a further R150bn. Including beverage and tobacco retailing the sector employs some 380,000 people. The industry is dominated by a handful of large retailers including Shoprite, Pick ‘n Pay, SPAR, and Woolworths. Although for many years the sector has dealt with low volume growth attributable to poor macroeconomic performance and constrained consumer spending power, the dominant firms continue to produce positive, though muted, results. This report examines key trends in the industry, including the consolidation and market share growth of the largest players, and their commitment to cutting costs through extensive management of their supply chains.

    Strengths

    • Great degree of supermarket penetration
    • Very strong presence in continental Africa.
    • Well developed supply chains and distribution divisions.
    • Well known and trusted brands.
    • Well regulated with high food safety standards.

    Weaknesses

    •  Low profit margins.
    • Large supermarket dominance renders it difficult for independent firms to enter the market.
    • Skills shortages in middle management.

    Opportunities

    • African economic growth growing a middle class with tastes for a diverse basket of groceries.
    • Extending the range of high-profit private brands.
    • Growing domestic and regional population driving increased food demand.
    • Increasing the market for online retailing as a result of increasing internet penetration.

    Threats

    • Steeply rising costs driven by unstable electricity supply, wage increases and a shortage of casual labour.
    • The drought of 2015/2016 is set to markedly increase the prices of a number of key grocery products including maize, bread, dairy and meat.
    • Weak economic growth constraining consumer spending power.

    Outlook

    Poor macroeconomic performance is set to continue to constrain consumer spending power and analysts suggest that volume growth is unlikely to increase markedly. According to experts such as Syd Vianello, this may entail a slowing of floor space expansion in the coming years. However, the industry has proved remarkably resilient to depressed economic conditions and the continuing focus on supply chain management and cost cutting suggests that, although revenue growth will be slow and profit margins low, the sector is likely to remain stable in the short-term. Increasingly advanced logistics and distribution divisions will allow many South African retailers to overcome the difficulties posed by expansion into the rest of Africa and the leveraging of this market by South African firms is expected to continue. According to PwC, “Long-term success will depend upon a continued focus on the consumer, and consumer services, efficient supply chains and a low cost of doing business.” The expansion of local retailers into the convenience market, both at service station forecourts and through the diverse range of complementary services offered in-store suggest that they are meeting these fundamental requirements. Despite a “sound fundamental business”, a number of retailers warned in their 2015 reports that without a change in the macroeconomic performance of South Africa, the industry outlook may turn negative in the mid-term. Shoprite has called for the “urgent implementation of the National Development Plan” to combat this possibility.

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2023-02-20

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2021-10-19

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2020-04-15

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2018-06-26

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    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014-02-10

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    Table of Contents

    [ Close ]
    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
    2.1. Industry Value Chain 2
    2.2. Geographic Position 4
    3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 5
    4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 11
    4.1. Local 11
    4.1.1. Corporate Actions 24
    4.1.2. Regulations 26
    4.1.3. Enterprise Development and Social Economic Development 27
    4.2. Continental 30
    4.3. International 31
    5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 32
    5.1. Economic Environment 32
    5.2. Electricity Supply and Increasing Input Costs 33
    5.3. Labour Resources 34
    5.4. Research and Development (R&D) 36
    5.5. Environmental Concerns 39
    6. COMPETITION 40
    6.1. Barriers to Entry 42
    7. SWOT ANALYSIS 45
    8. OUTLOOK 46
    9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 46
    10. REFERENCES 47
    10.1. Publications 47
    10.2. Websites 47
    COMPANY PROFILES 49
    Big Save Distribution Centre (Pty) Ltd 49
    Fruit and Veg City Holdings (Pty) Ltd 51
    Massmart Holdings Ltd 54
    Pick n Pay Stores Ltd 59
    Shoprite Holdings Ltd 63
    SPAR Group Ltd (The) 69
    Subtropico Ltd 75
    Wellness Warehouse (Pty) Ltd 78
    Woolworths (Pty) Ltd 80

    Introduction

    This report focuses on South Africa’s highly competitive wholesale and retail food sector which is worth an estimated R400bn a year. This figure is based on a variety of sources and excludes tobacco and beverages that are typically included in official data. The sector is dominated by five large retailers, Shoprite, Pick ‘n Pay, Spar, Massmart and Woolworths. Supermarket penetration is high compared to the rest of Africa, yet at the same time, a sizeable, albeit declining, informal sector is serviced by wholesalers. Global trends in retail, especially online shopping, have been slow to take hold in South Africa, although top-end retailers are positioning for such changes.

    Strengths

    • High supermarket penetration.
    • Strong investment in supply chains.
    • Well-known brands.

    Weaknesses

    • A volatile labour force, high wages and inflexible labour policies.
    • Retail sector dominated by a few big players.
    • Skills shortages, particularly in mid-management.

    Opportunities

    • A growing South African middle class.
    • Expansion of retailers’ private labels.
    • Huge potential market in the rest of Africa.
    • Online shopping.
    • Opening of new stores in townships and rural areas.

    Threats

    • Growth of new online retailers outside of the established players.
    • Worsening of the economy, further reducing the disposable income of consumers.

    Outlook

    According to analysts and retailers, poor macroeconomic fundamentals and high commodity prices will continue to weigh down the wholesale and retail food sector in 2014 as household budgets remain under pressure. The Bureau of Market Research anticipates that the general economic environment will encourage consumers to conduct bulk shopping, particularly at supermarkets, and move away from specialty food products. Nevertheless, retailers are pumping money into new store openings as they move into townships and rural areas, which have long been the domain of informal traders and spaza shops. Pick ‘n Pay plans to spend R1.8bn in 2014, mostly on expanding its footprint via 100 new stores. In the words of Spar, the “fight” is on to secure new sites. According to PwC, the overall outlook for South African retail sector growth is “modest, if not fragile” up until 2016. Food sales are forecast to expand relatively slowly in this timeframe, but there will be growth opportunities at the top and lower ends of the income spectrum. Analysts believe that to remain competitive in a challenging trading environment, retailers will need to identify, respond to and leverage changes in consumer behaviour.

    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry
    The South African Wholesale and Retail Food Industry 2014

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    Table of Contents

    [ Close ]
    PAGE
    1. INTRODUCTION 1
    2. DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY 1
    2.1. Industry Supply Chain 1
    3. SIZE OF THE INDUSTRY 2
    4. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY 6
    4.1. Local 6
    4.1.1. Corporate Actions 7
    4.1.2. Regulations 7
    4.1.3. Black Economic Empowerment 8
    4.2. Continental 9
    4.3. International 10
    5. INFLUENCING FACTORS 12
    5.1. Economic Environment 12
    5.2. Rising Input Costs 12
    5.3. Labour Resources 12
    5.4. Distribution Channels 13
    5.5. Information Technology 13
    5.6. Cyclicality 14
    5.7. Environmental Concerns 14
    6. COMPETITION 15
    6.1. Barriers to Entry 16
    6.2. Research and Development (R&D) 16
    6.3. Innovation 16
    7. SWOT ANALYSIS 17
    8. OUTLOOK 17
    9. INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS 17
    10. REFERENCES 19
    10.1. Publications 19
    10.2. Websites 19
    ORGANOGRAM 20
    COMPANY PROFILES 22
    AIR CHEFS (SOC) LTD 22
    FAIRLANE AGENCIES (PTY) LTD 24
    FRUIT & VEG CITY HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD 25
    KERRY INGREDIENTS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD 27
    KEY DISTRIBUTORS (PTY) LTD 28
    LONRHO PLC 29
    MARSHALL MONTEAGLE PLC 32
    MASSMART HOLDINGS LTD 34
    PICK 'N PAY STORES LTD 38
    PROMASIDOR (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD 62
    SHOPRITE HOLDINGS LTD 63
    SPAR GROUP LTD (THE) 68
    SUBTROPICO LTD 71
    WALTLOO BIG SAVE (PTY) LTD 73
    WELLNESS WAREHOUSE (PTY) LTD 74
    WOOLWORTHS (PTY) LTD 75

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