Tfg Takes On Shein, Amazon With Faster Delivery In South Africa

The Foschini Group TFG, a retail conglomerate headquartered in Cape Town and led by South African executive Anthony Thunstrom, is enhancing its e-commerce capabilities with faster delivery, competing with global players Amazon, Shein, and Temu in the growing South African online retail market.

Leveraging an extensive logistics network, TFG aims to slash delivery times, setting itself apart from rivals whose shipments to South Africa often stretch to 10 days. In a Bloomberg interview , Thunstrom underscored TFGs local-first strategy. South Africa may have lagged in e-commerce uptake, but once the wave begins, the growth is almost inevitable, he noted.

South Africas e-commerce landscape has been turbulent. Jumia Technologies AG recently announced plans to close its South African subsidiary, Zando, by year-end, citing economic headwinds and mounting competition from cost-conscious e-tailers like Shein and Temu. Similarly, Superbalist, formerly part of Takealot, was sold to a consortium in September amid financial and market pressures.

TFGs Bash platform, offering same-day and next-day delivery, is a standout in a sector where delivery fees, payment obstacles, and economic pressures weigh on businesses and consumers alike. TFGs logistical strength and widespread physical presence enable it to keep delivery times low, bolstering its competitive edge.

Operational hurdles remain, with frequent power and water shortages posing risks. TFG has responded by investing in solar power and water storage solutions to ensure business continuity. Weve set up contingency plans to provide water at stores, safeguarding operations and supporting our employees in high-need areas, Thunstrom said.