Walmart is gearing up to make its biggest digital move yet in South Africa.
The global retail giant, through its local arm Massmart, is launching a mobile app that will let South Africans shop online directly from Walmart’s first branded stores in the country.
The move marks Walmart’s formal entry into South Africa’s online retail market, one that’s heating up as consumers increasingly turn to mobile apps for grocery and household shopping.
Walmart online
Massmart confirmed to MyBroadband that the upcoming stores will deliver a “full omnichannel experience,” allowing customers to browse, buy, as well as have their orders delivered straight from the app.
“The app combines the best of global and local expertise by leveraging Walmart’s advanced technical capabilities, integrated with locally developed pick, pack, and delivery systems,” Massmart said.
The app has been built with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. Shoppers will be able to buy groceries, liquor, and a curated selection of general merchandise through what the company describes as a “clean, uncluttered, and intuitive” interface.
Delivery options are still being finalised, but Massmart said it will use a mix of motorcycles and larger vehicles to complete orders.
In the US, Walmart’s Express delivery service fulfils orders in as little as five minutes after payment. While the South African version won’t launch with that level of speed, it will share several of the same features, adapted for local logistics and shopping patterns.
Massmart also added that the new app is designed to bring South African shoppers closer to the kind of seamless, tech-driven retail experience that has made Walmart a global leader in e-commerce.
