Walmart has officially launched its first retail store in South Africa, marking the multinational’s long-anticipated entry into the African market and signaling a major shift in the region’s competitive retail landscape. The grand opening took place in Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg, where excitement built long before the doors opened. Hundreds of shoppers queued for hours, eager to explore the new outlet and secure early access to Walmart’s famed “Everyday Low Prices” and a range of international products rarely seen on South African shelves.
Many customers arrived with very specific items in mind. One such shopper, Refilwe Mabale, told Reuters she was hoping to buy Labubu dolls—popular children’s toys that are seldom available in the country. “I’m actually here for a specific product that you can’t really get in South Africa. It’s a children’s toy, Labubu,” she explained while waiting in line.
Others, like 44-year-old Tshepo Rambau, were drawn by the Black Friday weekend promotions. “I’m eyeing tech products like WiFi extenders. Hopefully I’ll get them cheaper here,” he said, expressing optimism that Walmart’s global sourcing power would deliver genuine savings.
The launch also introduces a key new player to South Africa’s fast-growing e-commerce space, with Walmart confirming it will offer a 60-minute delivery service. This move directly challenges Checkers’ Sixty60, currently the country’s dominant on-demand delivery platform operated by retail giant Shoprite. Walmart’s entrance is expected to intensify competition and potentially accelerate innovation across the sector.
Andrea Albright, Walmart’s Executive Vice President, described the opening as a strategic milestone for the company’s global ambitions. “Opening the first Walmart store in South Africa is about much more than a business milestone,” she said. “It demonstrates our commitment to helping customers save money and live better by consistently providing the lowest overall cost for the basket of products they rely on.”
Beyond retail offerings, the new Roodepoort location has already created 80 direct jobs and established partnerships with 15 local small and medium-sized businesses. This reflects Walmart’s pledge to integrate South African suppliers into its value chain and contribute to local economic development.
South Africa’s retail market is known for its sophistication and tough competition, dominated by established household names such as Shoprite, Woolworths, and Pick n Pay. Walmart’s arrival—with its expansive global supply network and aggressive pricing strategy—introduces a significant new force in both traditional retail and the rapidly expanding online shopping segment.
With its first African store now operating and plans for deeper expansion, Walmart is positioning itself as a major contender in Africa’s most industrialised economy, setting the stage for increased competition and potentially lower prices for millions of consumers.
