Shoprite Holdings is officially stepping into the e-commerce ring. Specifically, it’s bolstering its Shoprite Cash & Carry brand by introducing a new online shopping system which allows “bulk-buying” customers to browse and purchase a “wide range of goods at highly competitive prices,” through the new automated system.
A first for Cash & Carry
The venture, which marks Cash & Carry’s first appearance in the world of e-commerce, targets spaza shops and small retail businesses alike. To prove its commitment to that statement, the store includes free same-day delivery to those within a 50km radius in the hopes of helping those businesses cut down on transport costs and ultimately get ahead, according to Shoprite Group’s head of B2B eCommerce, Mark Cotton.
“We are committed to supporting small businesses by providing innovative solutions to the specific problems these enterprises face. The new Cash & Carry digital platform provides customers with reliable and visible stock access and delivery services that eliminate the need to store excess inventory, frees up much-needed cash flow, and gives business owners more time on the shop floor to focus on their customers and business growth,” he said.
Upon entering the online store, customers will be asked to give up their location data to best determine the nearest Cash & Carry store that will handle the delivery, and find out whether they’re eligible for free, same-day delivery. More on that in a minute. The store offers a general array of groceries, liquor and… ‘Barware & Accessories’, alongside special deals for each category.
Read More: Here’s how Shoprite started as a grocer and evolved into a bank
Orders can be processed using several different payment methods such as credit/debit cards, EFT, store credit, ‘cash upon collection’ or Shoprite’s Money Market Account. It’s worth noting that customers’ Xtra Savings Cards will be accepted to obtain promotional deals and to earn other benefits.
Same-day free delivery is not guaranteed for every customer. Buyers must fall within a 50km radius of the nearest Cash & Carry store to unlock free delivery, while same-day orders can only be achieved by placing an order before 12PM, or midday. Those customers outside the 50km radius will incur an additional delivery fee, as follows:
- 0km-50km – Free
- 51km-60km – R210
- 61km-150km – R280 for every 10km
- 150km+ – To be discussed with store