Big announcement for Game and Makro stores in South Africa

 ·3 Feb 2025

South African shoppers can expect exclusive Walmart private label items and unique international products at Massmart-owned Game, Makro, and Builders stores.

Walmart, which took over these stores in South Africa in 2011, is now bringing in unique products from Walmart and other countries.

With 22 Makro stores, 107 Game outlets, and 104 Builders locations nationwide, Massmart’s extensive footprint ensures that these new products will be widely accessible.

Herman Venter, Massmart’s chief merchandise officer, has outlined the company’s strategy to introduce a variety of Walmart private label products previously available only in the United States.

This includes private-label toys, snacks, baby care items, and bulk American breakfast cereals that promise to add variety to local breakfast tables.

According to Venter, the goal is to offer products that “resonate with local consumers.” He sees significant potential in the snack category and anticipates strong demand from South African shoppers.

In addition to these imports, Massmart also wants to work with more local suppliers in South Africa and from other parts of Africa.

A supplier summit scheduled for April aims to attract local manufacturers, assemblers, and growers as potential contributors to Massmart’s product range.

This will help local businesses grow and add more African-made products to Massmart’s shelves.

The introduction of Walmart’s private label products is also expected to drive competitive pricing, providing consumers with high-quality goods at more affordable prices.

Products such as baby care items, snacks, and household essentials will cater to a wide range of consumer needs, further strengthening Massmart’s position in the South African retail market.

Additionally, the inclusion of unique bulk cereal options from the US will offer families “value for money” choices.

Herman Venter, Massmart’s chief merchandise officer

Competition

Adding to the competitive landscape is Best Before, a growing retailer specialising in food and personal care products offered at prices lower than major chains like Checkers and Pick n Pay.

Founded by Mark Gordon and Alain Soriano in 2017, Best Before has carved out a niche by selling short-dated and past-best-before products that are still safe to consume.

Over seven years, it has expanded from a single store in Wendywood, Sandton, to six locations in Johannesburg and one in Pretoria, including outlets in Boksburg, Edenvale, Fourways, Northcliff, Krugersdorp, and the Atterbury Lifestyle Centre in Pretoria.

Best Before has recently broadened its product offerings with unique imports, bringing brands like Mountain Dew, Oshee, Cote d’Or, Toblerone, Hershey’s, Bokomo, Caffelux, Willards, Koo, Robertsons, and Labelo to its shelves.

The company also operates an online store serving Gauteng, with plans to expand its digital presence to other provinces soon.

This growth shows the increasing consumer demand for diverse and affordable products, as well as the convenience of online shopping in South Africa’s evolving retail landscape.

As Massmart strengthens its product lineup with exclusive Walmart items and international imports, and Best Before continues to diversify its offerings, South African consumers stand to benefit from an increasingly varied and competitive retail environment.

The introduction of new products, combined with the growth of local and regional suppliers, signifies a dynamic shift in the South African market, promising exciting options and better value for consumers nationwide.

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