5 well-known franchises that have disappeared across South Africa

Depsite South Africa’s booming fast-food industry, some nostalgic franchises didn’t make the cut, and these include Scooters Pizza, Domino’s Pizza, Subway, Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin Robbins, and Wakaberry.

South Africa’s fast-food sector had an estimated value exceeding R90 billion as of the end of 2023.

The successes of established local and international brands demonstrate the sector’s resilience and growth potential.

However, the failures of notable brands like Subway and Domino’s underscore the importance of adaptability, understanding local tastes, and strategic operations in a competitive market.

While these brands may no longer grace our high streets, their stories remain a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of South Africa’s fast-food landscape.

South Africa boasts one of the most vibrant fast-food industries globally, with franchises like KFC, Nando’s, and McDonald’s thriving in a landscape that caters to diverse tastes.

Despite the sector’s overall success, some well-loved brands have seemingly vanished behind the scenes, leaving fans with a bittersweet sense of nostalgia.

Therefore, BusinessTech looked at five franchises that once peppered the South African fast-food scene but have since slowly disappeared, examining the reasons behind their exits.

Scooters Pizza

Scooters Pizza launched in 2000, and the franchise expanded rapidly, boasting over 150 outlets nationwide at its peak.

Its hallmark promise of “39 minutes or it’s free” delivery resonated with South Africans looking for convenience and value.

However, by 2019, Scooters Pizza quietly vanished from the South African market.

The primary reason cited was declining sales amid stiff competition from international players like Debonairs and Domino’s Pizza, coupled with operational inefficiencies.

Parent company Taste Holdings eventually divested from its food businesses, signalling the end of Scooters Pizza.

This marked a sad chapter for a brand that had once been a trailblazer in local fast-food innovation.

Subway

Subway, the global sandwich chain famous for its “Eat Fresh” slogan, debuted in South Africa in 2006.

Known for its customisable menu and health-conscious options, Subway initially found a niche among urban consumers.

By 2015, the chain had around 40 outlets nationwide.

However, Subway’s South African journey came to an abrupt halt in 2020. Analysts attributed its failure to a lack of market differentiation and poor location strategies.

The franchise struggled to compete with local competitors offering more affordable options, and its higher price point became a deterrent during an economic downturn.

The brand’s closure left health-conscious consumers with fewer fast-food options.

Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins

Introduced to South Africa in 2016 by Grand Parade Investments (GPI), Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins promised to bring global sweetness to local consumers.

Dunkin’ opened 11 stores, while Baskin-Robbins had five outlets, primarily in metropolitan areas like Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Despite initial excitement, both brands failed to gain traction.

By 2019, GPI announced their closure, citing unsustainable operating costs and poor financial returns.

Dunkin’ struggled to compete with entrenched local coffee and pastry offerings, while Baskin-Robbins faced challenges from well-loved South African dessert brands.

The short-lived ventures became cautionary tales about underestimating local market dynamics.

Domino’s Pizza

Like Scooters, Domino’s Pizza entered South Africa under Taste Holdings in 2014, with a lot of anticipation over the American pizza brand.

The global pizza giant aimed to capture market share with its established brand identity and unique flavours.

Over five years, Domino’s managed to open 85 outlets, making it a recognisable name in urban areas.

Unfortunately, the franchise faced operational challenges, including supply chain disruptions and an inability to compete effectively with entrenched local competitors.

By 2020, Taste Holdings announced Domino’s closure in South Africa, citing unsustainable financial losses.

The exit illustrated the challenges of entering a market where consumer loyalty to established local brands runs deep.

Wakaberry

Wakaberry, South Africa’s first self-serve frozen yogurt chain, captured the hearts of many when it launched in 2011.

With its trendy branding and customisable toppings, the franchise grew to 33 stores nationwide by 2014, symbolising the peak of the frozen yoghurt trend.

However, by 2016, Wakaberry’s popularity began to wane. The frozen yoghurt craze cooled, and the brand faced rising operational costs and shrinking margins.

By 2017, Wakaberry ceased operations entirely, marking the end of an era for froyo enthusiasts. In September 2024, owner Famous Brands announced the closure of the last Wakaberry.

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