Swedish multinational retail-clothing company, H&M has made its eagerly-awaited debut at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, with a Johannesburg outlet scheduled to open 5 November. Zeenat Moorad reports: "With developed economies increasingly saturated and competitive, a tide of investment has shifted over the past five years into population-dense emerging markets like SA, where aspirant consumers present an avenue of potential growth. Social media, the internet and television have all but dissolved market borders, creating a global shopper that never before has had such choice and access to brands."

Moreover, the technology revolution has drastically lowered the barriers to entry for new, niche, smaller retailers to enter the market, resulting in increased competition for both traditional and non-traditional retailers. According to Deloitte's Retail Transformation report, a "big shift" is needed. South African retailers need to adopt new strategies if they are to continue creating value for consumers.

Domino's Pizza just launched an online ordering platform, which will allow customers to order pizza in a matter of minutes. "Customers are increasingly looking for convenient solutions to make their time-pressured lives easier ... We have created a solution that makes [ordering pizza] a fast, efficient and engaging experience," said Jay Currie, CEO Food Division of Taste Holdings.

Ahead of the Manufacturing Indaba's Western Cape roadshow next week, we interviewed Philippa Rodseth, who was recently appointed executive director of the Manufacturing Circle, on the challenges and opportunities facing local manufacturers, and how the Indaba plans to help them address or embrace them.

Jessica Taylor, Retail Editor (@Biz_Retail)
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