Cape Town – Walmart has announced plans to open its first branded stores in South Africa before the end of 2025, marking a significant expansion of the US retail giant’s presence in the country, reports say.
The new stores will offer groceries, household items, apparel, technology, and a selection of global brands, while also featuring locally sourced products through partnerships with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs.
Store locations and official opening dates have not yet been disclosed, but Walmart said they will be announced in the coming months along with hiring and community initiatives. Digital capabilities will also be integrated to enhance the shopping experience.
“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,” Walmart International President and CEO Kath McLay said.
Walmart is set to launch its first branded stores in South Africa in 2025, aiming to provide affordable, high-quality merchandise while partnering with local suppliers and celebrating South African culture.
Key Takeaways
• Walmart plans to open stores with wide aisles,… pic.twitter.com/YkstYpyWi8
— shaun.trennery.com (@shauntrennery) September 9, 2025
“The goal is to combine Walmart’s low prices and global standards with South Africa’s rich culture,” he added, according to The South African.
Massmart President and CEO Miles van Rensburg added that the stores would focus on delivering a high-quality customer experience, from helpful in-store assistance to efficient checkout processes.
Walmart has operated in South Africa through its ownership of Massmart, a local holding company that owns chains such as Game, Makro, and Builders Warehouse.
Today @Walmart announced its plans to open its first branded stores in South Africa later this year. This strategic move underscores Walmart’s commitment to making high-quality, affordable merchandise accessible to more customers. pic.twitter.com/UM6yZ8g5L7
— Massmart (@MassmartSA) September 9, 2025
The company first acquired a 51% stake in Massmart in 2011 and became its full owner in 2022. According to Daily Investor, the move signals Walmart’s commitment to strengthening its footprint in the South African retail market.
The expansion follows Walmart’s first growth summit held in South Africa earlier this year, which included suppliers from 12 African countries and led to the recruitment of small and medium-sized South African suppliers.
News24 reports that the official opening dates of the new stores are expected to be announced later this year, with customers able to look forward to enhanced digital shopping capabilities alongside the traditional in-store experience.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
