Walmart to open first Africa stores in South Africa after Nigeria talks failed

Walmart will open its first branded stores in Africa before the end of the year, starting in South Africa, the U.S. retail giant announced Tuesday.

The move comes more than a decade after Walmart acquired South African retailer Massmart, and it will put the Arkansas-based company in direct competition with local chains such as Pick n Pay, as well as e-commerce players like Amazon and Takealot.

Kath McLay, Walmart International President and CEO, said the South African stores will combine “everyday low prices” with local sourcing. “By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, we aim to bring global standards to the market while celebrating the country’s rich culture,” she said.

Massmart CEO Miles Van Rensburg added that several sites are already under development, with opening dates expected in October. The stores will stock groceries, household goods, apparel, technology, and locally made products. Walmart also plans to integrate digital shopping options and expand community investments in food security, disaster relief, and workforce development.

South Africa is the first African country to host Walmart’s own-name outlets — but it was not the first market the company explored. In 2022, Walmart executives held talks with Lagos state officials to open stores in Nigeria, a country of over 21 million people in its commercial hub alone. Then-Governor Akinwunmi Ambode touted the potential for jobs and investment, but the plan never materialized.

Instead, Walmart has maintained a limited Nigerian presence through Massmart’s Game and Makro outlets, as well as Builders Warehouse.

The South Africa’s stores will be Walmart’s first branded stores in Africa.

The South African Walmart stores will offer a wide range of merchandise, fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel and technology products, said President and CEO Kath McLay.

“Walmart will also offer a variety of locally sourced products. By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, we aim to bring our signature every day low prices and global standards to the market while celebrating the country’s rich culture,” McLay added.

The company said several store sites are under development, with official opening dates expected to be announced in October.