11% of households now shop in the independent sector on par with Clicks and not far behind Checkers.
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GUEST – Andrea Slabber, Insights Lead at Trade Intelligence
South Africa’s independent wholesale and retail sector is no longer the “hidden giant” of the economy, it’s a R268 billion industry that commands nearly a third of the FMCG market. According to Trade Intelligence, this sector, made up of wholesalers, hybrids, hypermarkets and independent supermarkets, is not only the backbone of the informal economy feeding tuckshops, spazas and small businesses but it’s also emerging as a powerful shopping destination for households under financial pressure. With agility, community investment and rapid innovation, independents are transforming from bulk-focused “cash & carry” outlets into modern retail hubs that rival, and in some cases outpace, corporate chains.
South Africa’s independent wholesale and retail sector is no longer the “hidden giant” of the economy, it’s a R268 billion industry that commands nearly a third of the FMCG market. According to Trade Intelligence, this sector, made up of wholesalers, hybrids, hypermarkets and independent supermarkets, is not only the backbone of the informal economy feeding tuckshops, spazas and small businesses but it’s also emerging as a powerful shopping destination for households under financial pressure. With agility, community investment and rapid innovation, independents are transforming from bulk-focused “cash & carry” outlets into modern retail hubs that rival, and in some cases outpace, corporate chains.
