South Africa’s e-commerce market has reached a key milestone, now accounting for 10 per cent of total retail sales, according to a new industry report. The figure signals a rapid digital shift in consumer behaviour, with implications for retailers, logistics providers, and the broader economy.
The growth has been fueled by increasing internet penetration, rising smartphone adoption, and the expansion of secure digital payment systems. Leading retailers such as Takealot, Woolworths, and Checkers Sixty60 have captured a growing share of consumer spend, while global platforms like Amazon are eyeing deeper entry into the market.
Industry analysts note that the pandemic accelerated online adoption, but habits have now stuck. Groceries, electronics, and fashion dominate the online basket, with logistics companies racing to keep pace with last-mile delivery demands.
The shift to digital retail is not without challenges. South Africa’s unequal broadband access and high data costs risk leaving segments of the population behind. However, fintech innovation and lower-cost delivery models are helping bridge gaps.
Market watchers predict that e-commerce could double its share of retail spend in the next five years if infrastructure investments and consumer trust continue to rise. For businesses, the message is clear: online is no longer an alternative—it is the battleground for the future of South African retail.