Takealot launching new international business
The Takealot Group is launching a new standalone business unit focusing on international trade.
Takealot Fulfilment Solutions (TFS) will house the group’s logistics, courier, on-demand, supply chain and international freight capabilities under one brand.
The move forms part of the group’s strategy to grow from the South Africa’s biggest e-commerce provider into a tech-driven fulfilment partner.
The launch of TFS’s full-service global freight capabilities this week is central to the group’s goals. This will allow for simplified importing and exporting of goods.
“TFS is a transformative service designed to empower businesses, improve delivery experiences for consumers and connect communities in meaningful ways,” said Frederik Zietsman, CEO of Takealot Group.
“Built on Takealot’s proven systems, TFS offers smart, integrated solutions that simplify and enhance every step of the delivery process – from first mile to last.”
The new company intends to support a new group of customers, such as established retailers, startups and individuals needing affordable logistics services.
Francois Retief, CEO of TFS, said that the company will offer services to address every aspect of logistics, including from global freight forwarding and warehousing and to meet the growing demand for on-demand delivery services.”
These services draw on the group’s maturing logistics infrastructure, with the network aiming to help businesses collaborate more effectively, allowing for cost efficiencies and optimised delivery times.
“TFS is about creating a seamless fulfilment experience for businesses, consumers and communities alike,” said Retief.
“By leveraging a scalable and dependable logistics ecosystem, TFS helps businesses unlock growth and reach new markets – both locally and internationally.”
Close to breaking even
Takealot’s new business comes as the group tries to break even in South Africa following years of losses
As per its parent company Naspers’ latest results, the group’s revenue grew by 20% in US dollar terms to reach $823 million (around R14 billion).
Takealot Gross Merchandise Value (GMW) increased by 13% year-on-year despite a slow start, with gross profit margin improving by 1%, supported by the strong performance of high-growth segments like Mr D Grocery.
Despite the revenue growth, the group recorded an adjusted loss before interest and taxes (aEBIT) of $12 million (R217.12 million) due to increased marketing amid growing international competition and infrastructure investments.
AEBIT is a non-IFRS measure that refers to EBITDA adjusted for depreciation, amortisation of software and interest on capitalised lease liabilities.
It was previously referred to as a trading profit or loss by the group. Despite not being a standard measure for profit or loss, Naspers said it’s useful for its chief operating decision-maker.
Despite the loss, the latest results still mark an improvement from the group’s $14 million loss seen in 2024.
Naspers said that the Takealot group remains on track to achieve profitability in the 2026 financial year.
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