Amazon has revealed the launch of Amazon.co.za, introducing a fresh online shopping avenue for consumers in South Africa
Accessible through the Amazon Shopping App or by navigating to www.amazon.co.za on both desktop and mobile browsers, customers now have access to a diverse array of local and international brands spanning 20 distinct product categories. They can explore, discover, and purchase items at competitive prices, with the added convenience of same-day and next-day delivery services.
For items fulfilled by Amazon, initial orders will benefit from complimentary delivery, followed by subsequent orders above R500 (approximately US$27) also qualifying for free shipping. Furthermore, customers will receive real-time updates via WhatsApp, allowing them to monitor their orders at each stage of the process.
To enhance the convenience and reliability of the shopping experience, Amazon.co.za offers hassle-free returns within a 30-day window, with options including home pickup and self-drop. Additionally, comprehensive customer support is available via phone, email, and live chat channels.
“We are excited to launch Amazon.co.za, along with thousands of independent sellers in South Africa. We provide customers with great value, broad selection—including international and local products—and a convenient delivery experience," said Robert Koen, managing director of Sub-Saharan Africa, Amazon. "From today, customers can count on Amazon.co.za for a stress-free shopping experience, fast and reliable delivery, access to 3,000 pickup points, 24/7 customer support, and easy returns. Customers will also enjoy free delivery on their first order.”
Amazon.co.za showcases an extensive array of products spanning various categories, including Consumer Electronics, Sporting Equipment, Toys, Home, and small Kitchen Appliances. It proudly features renowned international brands such as Apple, Sony, HP, LEGO, Chicco, Maybelline, Pampers, Neutrogena, and Johnson’s. Moreover, the platform highlights beloved local brands sourced from independent South African sellers, such as Amanda-Jayne, King Kong Leather, Masodi, and Tiger Lily.
In a philanthropic collaboration, Amazon has joined forces with goGOGOgo, a South African non-profit organisation. This partnership offers customers the unique opportunity to have eligible products packaged in handmade gift bags. Headquartered in Johannesburg and with projects spanning across South Africa, goGOGOgo is dedicated to empowering grandmothers, affectionately known as GOGOs. These gift bags, crafted from recycled plastic and handsewn, directly contribute to supporting local businesses and generating income opportunities for GOGOs who are raising children. Given that over four million children in South Africa are nurtured by GOGOs, this initiative significantly contributes to enhancing the life outcomes of these families.
“We are grateful for this wonderful opportunity to partner with Amazon to expand our reach and make a meaningful impact in promoting positive life opportunities and health outcomes for GOGOs and the children they are raising, often in difficult conditions,” said Founder of goGOGOgo, Jane Simmonds. “Through this partnership, Amazon recognizes the importance of our cause to support these extraordinary women in the vital role they play within their families and their communities around South Africa.”
New opportunities for local businesses
More than 60% of the items sold in Amazon’s stores globally are from independent sellers—most of which are small- and medium-sized businesses—providing a vast selection of products, competitive prices, and great convenience for shoppers. As part of its commitment to connect customers with businesses throughout the country, Amazon.co.za offers independent sellers an opportunity to rapidly launch, grow, and scale, while leveraging the innovative capabilities, valuable tools, and educational content provided by Amazon.
“The heartbeat of our small business enterprises measures the health of our country’s economy. If they are pumping, the nation is growing. We welcome companies that provide opportunities for local sellers and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses," said minister of small business development of South Africa, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams. "We are counting on Amazon to provide such opportunities to our small enterprises, and look forward to working together to unlock these opportunities. This will create jobs and contribute to government’s objective of repairing the legacy of poverty and inequality. This is the heartbeat we want to hear.”
Launching the Amazon.co.za store with thousands of independent sellers, customers can choose from a wide variety of local brands including Nomakade, a local business offering organic hair care products. “With our uniquely formulated products made for coily African hair, we want to inspire self-confidence and self-love to celebrate the ‘Naturally Flexible Elegance’ of natural hair,” remarked Noma Diko, founder and CEO of Nomakade. “Nomakade has counted on word of mouth for its success, but now we look forward to reaching more South Africans with Amazon.”
South African businesses of all sizes can sell their products to customers across the country through Amazon. The company offers independent sellers access to easy onboarding tools, payment processing solutions, and promotional features to help them get discovered by customers, as well as reports and analytics to improve sales.
