ON Tuesday 7 May, Amazon announced the launch of Amazon.co.za, providing customers in South Africa with a new online shopping experience. Available by either downloading the Amazon Shopping App or visiting www.amazon.co.za, customers can discover and shop from a selection of local and international brands across 20 different product categories, take advantage of pricing, and select same-day and next-day delivery.
Worldwide Amazon Stores CEO Doug Herrington shares how Amazon continues to deliver a massive selection of quality products at record speeds. “We are excited to launch Amazon.co.za, along with thousands of independent sellers in South Africa. We provide customers with great value, broad selection ̶ including international and local products ̶ and a convenient delivery experience,” said Robert Koen, managing director of sub-Saharan Africa, Amazon. “From Tuesday 7 May, customers can count on Amazon.co.za for a stress-free shopping experience, fast and reliable delivery, access to 3,000 pickup points, 24/7 customer support, and easy returns. Customers will also enjoy free delivery on their first order.”
Amazon.co.za features a wide range of products across categories such as consumer electronics, sporting equipment, toys, home, and small kitchen appliances, including international brands such as Apple, Sony, HP, LEGO, Chicco, Maybelline, Pampers, Neutrogena, and Johnson’s. The store will also include popular local brands from independent South African sellers, including Amanda-Jayne, King Kong Leather, Masodi, and Tiger Lily.
For products fulfilled by Amazon, customers will enjoy free delivery on their first order, followed by free delivery for subsequent orders above R500 (about $27). Customers will also receive status updates via WhatsApp, so they can track their order. To further ensure a convenient and trusted shopping experience, Amazon.co.za offers returns within 30 days via convenient options, including home pickup and self-drop. Additionally, customer support is provided via phone, email, and live chat.
Amazon has also partnered with goGOGOgo, a South African non-profit organisation, offering customers the opportunity to package eligible products in handmade gift bags. Based in Johannesburg with projects across South Africa, goGOGOgo is dedicated to building the capacity, skills, and knowledge of grandmothers, locally known as GOGOs. Made from recycled plastic and handsewn, these gift bags directly support local businesses and income generation opportunities for GOGOs raising children. With over four million children in South Africa being raised by grandmothers, this project helps contribute to improved life outcomes for these families.
“We are grateful for this wonderful opportunity to partner with Amazon to expand our reach and make a meaningful impact in promoting positive life opportunities and health outcomes for GOGOs and the children they are raising, often in difficult conditions,” said founder of goGOGOgo, Jane Simmonds. “Through this partnership, Amazon recognises the importance of our cause to support these extraordinary women in the vital role they play within their families and their communities around South Africa.”
New opportunities for local businesses
More than 60% of the items sold in Amazon’s stores globally are from independent sellers ̶ most of which are small- and medium-sized businesses ̶ providing a vast selection of products, competitive prices, and great convenience for shoppers. As part of its commitment to connect customers with businesses throughout the country, Amazon.co.za offers independent sellers an opportunity to rapidly launch, grow, and scale, while leveraging the innovative capabilities, valuable tools, and educational content provided by Amazon.
“The heartbeat of our small business enterprises measures the health of our country’s economy. If they are pumping, the nation is growing. We welcome companies that provide opportunities for local sellers and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses,” said Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams. “We are counting on Amazon to provide such opportunities to our small enterprises, and look forward to working together to unlock these opportunities. This will create jobs and contribute to government’s objective of repairing the legacy of poverty and inequality. This is the heartbeat we want to hear.”