The Covid-19 pandemic has exposed the precariousness of a solely bricks and mortar model. According to a recent report by McKinsey, consumers expect a relative shift to online shopping in most categories in the short term, driven primarily by a sharp decrease in in-store shopping. In the longer term, 40% of consumers plan to increase online shopping once the crisis is over. 23 Jul 2020
Personal protective equipment (PPE) has arguably become the most sought-after commodity in the world. The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a global shortage of this equipment. This has created an opportunity for garment factories across Asia, which have lots of spare capacity because their clothing is in much less demand than usual. 23 Jul 2020
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Prior to the pandemic, Africa was identified as one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world, with household consumption growing even faster than gross domestic product (GDP) in recent years and annual GDP growth consistently overtaking the global average. 23 Jul 2020
The franchise sector, which in South Africa is represented in around 14 different business sectors, represents the most diverse range of entrepreneurial endeavours and is the most suited to lead the post-Covid recovery, says the Franchise Association of South Africa (Fasa). 22 Jul 2020
First they came for the Tempo, and I did not speak out - because I wasn't crazy about Tempo.
Then they came for the Lay's Salt and Vinegar chips, and I did not speak out - because I was always more of a "Lightly Salted" man. Then they came for the alcohol, and I did not speak out - because I had stockpiled an impressive amount of single-malts, along with toilet paper and sanitary wipes. Then they came for Chocolate Log - and I was too drunk to speak. 22 Jul 2020
Industry bodies representing South Africa's alcohol and restaurant industries have shared the letter they sent to President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday night, which requests a meeting with him and for the sale of liquor to resume based on a set of conditions to be agreed by both parties at the proposed meeting. 22 Jul 2020
Recent research has shown that the average price of cigarettes has increased by nearly 250% compared to pre-lockdown levels. Based on a second online survey, conducted between 4 and 19 June 2020, researchers from the University of Cape Town (UCT) found that the average price per cigarette was R5.69, or R114 per pack of 20. 22 Jul 2020
As the Covid-19 infections peak in the country, Heineken South Africa is extending Covid-19-related support to the families of more than 950 staff members. 22 Jul 2020
In his keynote address during the Seamless Saudi Arabia virtual conference this month, Amazon veteran Paul Misener shared insight into how the e-commerce giant approaches innovation and the profound role a diverse workforce plays in this process. 21 Jul 2020
Over 75% of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) milk and juice bottles are recycled, according to recent research conducted by the Polyolefin Responsibility Organisation (Polyco), a not-for-profit industry body focused on reducing the amount of polyolefin waste going to landfill. 21 Jul 2020
As dawn broke into 2020, e-commerce was already storming the markets. But the global lockdown on business and trade stamped on that trajectory's accelerator. In three short months, the pivot from brick-and-mortar into the e-commerce universe has been dramatic. 21 Jul 2020
Pierre van Tonder, the long-serving chief executive officer of Spur Corporation, will retire on 31 December 2020 after 38 years of service. 21 Jul 2020
The renewed prohibition of alcohol sales with immediate effect has led the South African alcohol industry to apply for a deferment of the payment of over R5bn in excise duties for July and August 2020. 20 Jul 2020
Both globally and locally, pet owners are finding novel ways to pamper their pets, as they are increasingly being considered as an important member of the family. These include treats such as ice cream, frozen yogurt and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a variety of high-end services, such as luxury pet hotels and spa treatments. These unique treats are popular among pet owners, who continue to humanise their pets with luxury products and services that they themselves enjoy. 20 Jul 2020
The current economic conditions are a perfect breeding ground for an increase in get-rich-quick Ponzi and pyramid schemes, warns Mthunzi Mbali, vice-chairman of the Direct Selling Association of South Africa (DSA). 20 Jul 2020
Lorna Jane recently launched an "antiviral" line of its activewear, called "LJ Shield", generating significant backlash from medical professionals. 20 Jul 2020
In light of Plastic Free July, Woolworths has announced two new paper packaging trials and the start of the national rollout of the specially-designed paper bags for Fashion, Beauty and Homeware (FBH) purchases to 17 stores. 17 Jul 2020
Stakeholders in South Africa's alcohol industry are requesting the research data that informed the recent reinstatement of the ban on sales and distribution of alcohol during the Covid-19 lockdown. 17 Jul 2020
The Competition Commission has said that of the 1,600 complaints received under the excessive pricing and consumer protection regulations by the end of June 2020, 307 (or 19%) related to basic food products in retail stores. 17 Jul 2020
Amazon is rolling out smart shopping carts that automatically scan items as they're placed inside the trolley, allowing customers to skip the checkout line. 16 Jul 2020
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