Sai Mart to rebrand Choppies Zimbabwe outlets in major retail expansion

Oluwatosin Racheal Alabi -

Key Points

  • Sai Mart, owned by Raj Modi, acquires Choppies Zimbabwe outlets.
  • Choppies exits the market amid declining formal retail foot traffic.
  • The acquisition boosts Sai Mart’s position in Zimbabwe’s retail sector.

      • Sai Mart, a fast-growing retail chain owned by Zimbabwean Deputy Minister and businessman Raj Modi, will officially take over Choppies Zimbabwe outlets beginning January 1, 2025. This acquisition marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s retail sector, as Sai Mart aims to expand its footprint and offer affordable products through its convenient neighborhood stores.

      The acquisition comes as Choppies, a Botswana-based retail giant, exits the Zimbabwe market to focus on more profitable territories. Choppies, which entered Zimbabwe in 2013 by acquiring Spar outlets, had established a strong presence with 30 stores nationwide but has faced challenges due to declining foot traffic and increased competition from informal markets.

      The sale of Choppies’ Zimbabwe operations, managed by its subsidiary Nanavac (Pty) Ltd, is pending regulatory approval.

      Sai Mart’s growth and rebranding plans

      Sai Mart, currently operating six branches in Bulawayo, will rebrand the acquired Choppies outlets under its name. While details about the number of stores involved in the acquisition remain unclear, the deal is expected to boost Sai Mart’s market share and enhance its position as a major player in Zimbabwe’s retail sector.

      “At Sai Mart, we are committed to providing affordable products and making shopping convenient for our customers,” Modi said during a media briefing in Bulawayo. “This acquisition is a strategic step toward achieving that goal.”

      The expanded Sai Mart network will provide broader access to its products, creating competition in the formal retail sector and potentially stabilizing prices for consumers.

      Challenges and opportunities in Zimbabwe’s retail sector

      Zimbabwe’s formal retail sector has faced significant challenges, including a shift toward informal markets, which have reported a 30 percent decline in customer traffic over the past two years. This environment presents both hurdles and opportunities for Sai Mart’s growth.

      As Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Modi brings a unique perspective to the retail industry. His dual role as a politician and entrepreneur positions him to navigate the complexities of Zimbabwe’s economic landscape while leveraging strategic initiatives to expand Sai Mart’s influence.

      Transforming Zimbabwe’s retail market

      The acquisition of Choppies stores signals a new chapter for Sai Mart and Zimbabwe’s retail sector. With the addition of Choppies’ network, Sai Mart will be better equipped to compete with informal markets and provide more stable pricing and quality products to consumers.

      By revitalizing the formal retail sector, Sai Mart’s expansion could play a pivotal role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s economy and setting a new standard for retail operations in the country. As regulatory approvals move forward, the retail industry will closely watch this transformative deal’s impact on consumers and businesses alike.