Walmart Expands Rapidly
Johannesburg – Walmart’s push into South Africa is picking up speed, with new stores opening and more on the way, while Game’s network across the country continues to get smaller. This shift comes as Massmart, the local group fully owned by Walmart, looks at closing around 20 Game outlets in key provinces to make room for Walmart-branded shops. The changes highlight how the US retail giant is stepping up its game to offer better prices and quality goods to local shoppers facing tough economic times.
Walmart’s Growing Presence in South Africa
Walmart first dipped its toes into the South African market back in 2011 by buying a 51% stake in Massmart. By late 2022, it had taken full control, setting the stage for bigger moves. The company announced in September 2025 that it would open its first branded stores before the end of that year, marking a bold step to bring its well-known name directly to local consumers.
This expansion goes beyond just rebranding. Walmart aims to stock a wide mix of items, from fresh groceries and household basics to clothing and tech gadgets. Shoppers can expect exclusive private label products and unique items from around the world, all at competitive prices. The strategy focuses on quality and affordability, which Walmart sees as key to winning over South Africans hit by rising costs and weak growth.
Game’s Shrinking Network Amid Challenges
Game, a long-time favourite for electronics, appliances, and general goods, has been under strain for more than a decade. Fierce competition from other retailers and a sluggish economy have squeezed its profits and forced tough choices. Since late 2022, at least 13 Game stores have shut their doors, with some sites quickly turned into other formats or left empty.
Now, Massmart is reviewing about 20 more Game locations in Gauteng, the Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. These could close soon, with plans to rebuild many as new Walmart outlets. This follows a pattern where struggling Game spots are repurposed to fit Walmart’s vision. For example, the Game store at East Point Shopping Centre in Boksburg closed in July 2025, paving the way for potential changes.
These closures are not taken lightly. Massmart has promised to talk with affected workers about options like moving to new roles or other support. The moves aim to streamline operations and focus on stronger brands, but they also reflect the harsh realities of a retail sector where only the most adaptable survive.
Key Store Openings and Rollout Plans
The rollout kicked off in November 2025 with Walmart’s first two stores in South Africa. One opened at Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort, and the other at Fourways Mall in Johannesburg. Both replaced former Game sites, allowing Walmart to hit the ground running without starting from scratch.
Building on that success, a third store is set to open in Boksburg on the East Rand by the end of February 2026. This location, likely at the old Game spot in East Point Shopping Centre, will bring Walmart’s affordable range closer to more communities. Company leaders have hinted at speeding up growth beyond Gauteng in 2026, with sites in other provinces under consideration.
Massmart plans to share more about its long-term strategy in the second quarter of 2026. This could include details on new builds, not just conversions, and how Walmart will blend with existing chains like Makro and Builders. The approach shows Walmart’s commitment to adapting to local needs while using its global muscle to offer better deals.
Impact on the Local Retail Scene
South Africa’s retail market, worth around R1.3 trillion, is heating up with Walmart’s arrival. It puts the US giant in direct rivalry with home-grown leaders like Shoprite, Woolworths, and Pick n Pay. These chains have long dominated groceries and general merchandise, but Walmart’s focus on low prices and wide variety could shake things up.
For shoppers, this means more choices and potentially lower costs on everyday items. Walmart’s entry follows a growth summit held in Johannesburg in April 2025, where the company connected with local suppliers to boost opportunities. This not only helps build a stronger supply chain but also supports jobs and small businesses in the area.
However, the changes raise questions about Game’s future. With roughly 100 stores left, Massmart might convert more to Walmart or shift them to mini-Makro formats, as seen in some past trials. Analysts see this as a reset for Walmart in Africa, sticking with South Africa despite pulling back from other low-growth spots worldwide.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges
As Walmart ramps up, it faces hurdles like high unemployment, power outages, and supply chain snags that plague the local economy. Yet, with a population hungry for value, the timing could be right. The company’s 2.1 million global workforce and nearly R13 trillion in yearly revenue give it the tools to tackle these issues.
For Game employees and loyal customers, the transition brings uncertainty but also hope for fresh starts. Massmart stresses that any changes will involve talks to minimise job losses, possibly through transfers or training for new positions.
This evolving story underscores a bigger trend in South African retail: adaptation is key to survival. As Walmart grows and Game shrinks, the landscape is set for exciting shifts that could benefit consumers in the long run. Keep an eye out for updates as more stores open and strategies unfold.
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Source: https://centralnews.co.za/walmart-expands-rapidly-as-games-south-african-footprint-shrinks/