OneCart – one of the most versatile shopping systems in South Africa is getting a big expansion over the coming months. This push for expansion is coming at a great time for Makro and Game owner Massmart after word that Amazon would probably be making its way to South Africa next year.

What makes OneCart unique is the fact that you can add items from multiple stores, collecting it all into… We see what you did there. You’re able to shop from 20 different product categories, and add items from up to 12 stores. Then, you pay and voila. A delivery driver will be at your door with everything you need. Or if you’d rather not come within the hour, the user can select a specific time slot which suits them better.

“Not only does the platform act as an alternative customer channel for some of the country’s most established brands, but it is also the first direct-to-consumer channel for smaller, emerging retailers and SMEs entering the online market.” said Lynton Peters, CEO and founder of OneCart.

Expanding to fit the market

Massmart and OneCart announced that it would be doubling its offerings in terms of stores available on the app. Stores such as Makro, Wonderboom, Carnival, and Crown Mines will be added to the pickings pretty soon. A select few Builders stores will also be added as the year goes on. These stores will be added to the already wide range of 28 Game stores, and 12 Makro stores.

“We are really pleased to be able to leverage OneCart for mutual benefit at Massmart through this expansion, given the high priority that Massmart has placed on on-demand eCommerce at Game, Makro and Builders,” said Peters.

But what is the end goal for the ‘expansion’ of the OneCart app? Well, according to the OneCart CEO, the company wants every store to be represented within a 10KM radius of all customers using the app. He wants customers to have their pick of stores, no matter where they are.

“OneCart’s business model is becoming increasingly relevant for both retailers and consumers as convenience and time become new currencies. As retailers seek new growth opportunities and access to new customers, a fast, low-cost online presence is invaluable.” He said.

Putting up a fight

OneCart will need to grow rather quickly over the rest of the year as the threat of Amazon’s arrival in early 2023 lloms. Once Amazon is here, it might prove difficult for many local retailers to compete.