US-based retailer Walmart has announced plans to launch its first branded stores in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The stores will offer affordable groceries, entertainment, and family and home essentials, including global brands.
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Development of the stores is underway, with official opening dates expected to be announced in October.
The move is part of Walmart’s strategy to provide “high-quality, affordable merchandise” to a broader customer base.
The announcement follows Walmart’s first Growth Summit in April 2025, which brought together suppliers from 12 African countries.
The event led to the recruitment of small and medium-sized suppliers based in Africa.
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By GlobalDataWalmart international president and CEO Kath McLay stated: “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 everyday low prices and global standards to the market, while celebrating the country’s rich culture.”
The retailer plans to announce further details about store locations, hiring and community initiatives in the months to come.
These stores will feature digital capabilities to enhance customers’ shopping journey.
With this strategic move, Walmart, which owns the South African retail group Massmart, positions itself in direct competition with established local retailers such as Woolworths, Shoprite and Pick n Pay, as reported by Reuters.
Massmart president and CEO Miles Van Rensburg stated: “We’re thrilled to begin this journey introducing the iconic Walmart brand to South African associates, customers and communities. By listening and working together, we aim to build lasting relationships and deliver a delightful shopping experience that reflects the needs and aspirations of South Africans.
“Every rand matters when it comes to price. It is this balance and mindset on quality and everyday low prices that enable us to deliver and build customer trust. We’re committed to providing an exceptional in-store experience at every customer touchpoint, from a warm welcome upon entering the store, to helpful assistance in the aisles and friendly, efficient checkout.”
The Massmart brand operates the Makro and Game retail chains, which offer merchandise similar to that of Walmart. Massmart also owns Builders Warehouse, a chain specialising in building materials.
Walmart recently inaugurated a 725,000ft² perishable distribution centre in Wellford in the US state of South Carolina.
