Top 10 South African Supermarkets by Turnover

South Africa’s supermarket sector remains one of the most advanced and competitive in Africa, with leading retail giants consistently achieving strong turnover figures despite global economic pressures and local operational challenges. From diversified product ranges to strategic expansion across the continent, South African retailers are not only shaping local consumption habits but are also playing a significant role in African retail modernisation.

Below is International Supermarket News’ exclusive breakdown of the top 10 South African supermarket chains by turnover:

1. Shoprite Holdings Ltd.
   Africa’s largest food retailer, Shoprite leads the pack with turnover exceeding ZAR 200 billion. With over 3,300 stores across the continent, its core brands include Shoprite, Checkers, and Usave.

2. Pick n Pay Stores Ltd.
   A household name in South Africa, Pick n Pay commands a turnover of over ZAR 100 billion, driven by its supermarket division and Boxer stores, targeting the lower-income segment.

3. Spar Group Ltd.
   Operating on a voluntary trading model, Spar’s decentralised structure contributes to a turnover of around ZAR 90 billion. The group also has a strong footprint in Ireland, Switzerland, and other parts of Southern Africa.

4. Woolworths Holdings Ltd. (Food Division)
   Known for its premium offerings and private-label focus, Woolworths Food contributes significantly to the group’s total revenue, reaching close to ZAR 40 billion in food turnover.

5. Massmart Holdings (Makro & Cambridge Food)
   Owned by Walmart (though currently under divestment restructuring), Massmart’s food retail arm, including Makro and Cambridge Food, registers substantial turnover in the region of ZAR 30–40 billion.

6. OK Franchise Division (Owned by Shoprite)
   This chain, primarily operating under OK Foods, OK MiniMark and OK Express banners, leverages Shoprite’s logistics and enjoys consistent turnover around ZAR 10–15 billion.

7. Food Lover’s Market
   Positioned as a fresh produce and artisanal foods destination, Food Lover’s Market is growing steadily with turnover estimated between ZAR 8–10 billion, and a growing international presence.

8. Choppies Enterprises (South African Operations)
   While Botswana-based, Choppies maintains a strong retail presence in South Africa, generating turnover in the low billions, targeting price-conscious consumers.

9. Cashbuild Ltd. (Retail Arm)
   Though more focused on building materials, Cashbuild’s community store model often includes basic grocery items, contributing a modest but notable amount to retail turnover.

10. Independent Supermarkets & Co-operatives
    Collectively, thousands of independently owned stores and smaller franchisees across South Africa contribute an estimated ZAR 10–15 billion to the sector, offering hyper-localised service and community integration.