By Thebe Mabanga
Walmart’s announcement that it will open its branded stores in South Africa in the last quarter of this year is not only the logical progression of its 2022 decision to acquire 100% of Massmart and delist.
It also fulfills the company’s original intention when it first acquired 51% of Massmart back in 2010.
The move comes as no surprise.
The global retail giant has long signaled its plan to use South Africa as a launchpad into the rest of the continent, through both bricks-and-mortar stores and e-commerce.
Its strategy places emphasis on sourcing from local suppliers, a point reinforced earlier this year when Walmart hosted a supplier expo showcasing the depth and potential of African producers.
Back in 2010, Walmart faced stiff opposition both locally and globally.
It opted for a cautious entry, taking a 51% stake while retaining the Massmart brand and its subsidiaries, placing a
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