Walmart has officially launched its first store in South Africa, marking the American giant’s highly anticipated debut on the African continent. The grand opening in Roodepoort saw eager shoppers lining up for hours, drawn by the promise of “Everyday Low Prices” and exclusive access to international products like Drew Barrymore’s air fryers and Labubu dolls. This strategic move places Walmart in direct competition with established local services such as Shoprite, notably through its new sixty-minute online delivery offering. Beyond just selling goods, the company emphasizes its commitment to the local economy, having created 80 new jobs and partnered with 15 South African small businesses. This new store represents Walmart’s ambitious plan to secure a stake in a competitive market by supporting both consumer savings and local business development.
Reuters
