Walmart (WMT) officially opened its first branded store in South Africa at a mall location in Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg. The store opening marks Walmart’s (WMT) direct entry into the African retail market.
The launch event over the weekend reportedly attracted large crowds seeking both bargains and access to international products rarely found locally, such as branded appliances, unique toys, and specialty food and beverage items.
Notably, the retail giant also launched a region-specific version of its shopping app, capable of handling online orders for fresh and frozen foods, household essentials, and small appliances.
Walmart (WMT) has done business in South Africa in the past through its 100% ownership of Massmart, which is a major South African retailer operating local chains such as Game, Makro, Builders Warehouse, and CBW. Looking back, Walmart (WMT) acquired a controlling stake in Massmart in 2011 and took full ownership by 2022.
Earlier this year, Walmart (WMY) held a Growth Summit, which featured suppliers from 12 countries across the continent with “incredible” innovations and products made, grown, or assembled in Africa. Notably, the event resulted in the recruitment of small and medium-sized Africa-based suppliers.
Walmart (WMT) reportedly has other sites under development in South Africa and intends to announce additional locations and further details about its hiring and community initiatives in the months ahead.