With the release of the annual cross-border e-commerce report by PayPal and Ipsos comes the news that South Africans are forecasted to spend over R45 billion online this year - a 19% increase from 2017 - with over 60% making a purchase from an overseas retailer. Encouraging news for some, but an important consideration for those involved in physical retail.
Meanwhile, in Nielsen research, South African consumers' stressful, time-starved lifestyles has created a burgeoning demand for convenient solutions that can help simplify their lives - from food delivery to meal kits and grab-and-go foods.
In other top headlines, the Spree-Superbalist merger will result in the Spree brand folding into Superbalist from October, with the combined business positioned as the largest player in South African online fashion.
We have the innovative, standout designs from this year's Pentawards, a prestigious worldwide competition devoted exclusively to packaging design. Good news for South Africa is that Cape Town-based beverage company, Superlatte, scooped a Bronze award in the Food Trends Category.
Sticking with food, Callebaut's ruby chocolate - the biggest innovation in chocolate in over 80 years - has finally made its way to SA. And some local chocolatiers have been turning their newly-prized stock into some eye-catching creations.
In other not-to-miss news, Zimbabwe is set to be the next country of origin for Nespresso's popular range of coffees, Burberry has stopped burning unsold goods and has banned the use of real fur, and Kirstie Weber answers whether on-pack promos remain relevant in the digital age.
Until next week, enjoy!
Lauren Hartzenberg
Retail Editor: Bizcommunity.com
