SPAR South Africa has provided support to local independent retailers and businesses since 1963, creating opportunities for collaboration with their local wholesaler, suppliers, and other retailers to meet the needs of local communities throughout the country.

Independent retailer strength

SPAR South Africa’s retail network comprises a family of independent retailers, working together with shared values and commitment to the community. From long-standing family retailers to the next generation, SPAR South Africa and its independent retailer network are dedicated to meeting the needs of their locality.

The Tam family, located in Cradock in the Eastern Cape province, has had its entrepreneurial journey dating back to 1902. In 1963, they joined the SPAR South Africa network. This move provided a catalyst for a new era of growth and community impact. From Peter Tam, the pioneering family member, to his grandson Donnie, who now runs the business, the Tam family has built more than just a successful store; they have established a community cornerstone.

The family philosophy is simple yet powerful: “run a SPAR store like a family and support the community as if it were their own”. This approach has fostered lasting sustainability, not only for their business but for the Cradock community. The Tam family, and every SPAR retailer, carries the torch of entrepreneurship, legacy, and impact.

With the SPAR retail trading model, independent retailers are supported by a strong wholesale and distribution network – combining the power and agility of local entrepreneurship with the strength of a trusted brand.

Focusing on the supply chain and local producers

The expansion of SPAR South Africa’s Eastern Cape distribution centre in Gqeberha, with a new dry-goods warehouse and bulk storage facility, is an investment both in its infrastructure as well as people. The developments provide the capacity for teams throughout the supply chain network, from warehouse teams to logistics specialists and drivers, to effectively serve stores which cater to thousands of customers across the region each day.

SPAR South Africa empowers local businesses and entrepreneurs in the food and agriculture sectors with the SPAR Supplier Development Programme. Here, micro and small businesses are supported with training, technical expertise, food safety guidance and access to industry specialists, helping them grow sustainably and participate more meaningfully in the retail value chain. Since its inception, the programme has supported 4,882 entrepreneurs and small businesses, with more than 6,700 products across a wide range of categories, including grocery, bakery, fresh produce, and butchery, currently available for retailers, who benefit from the diverse range of products which are then available for consumers, further building on the nationally sourced own brand ranges exclusively available for SPAR retailers.

By increasing capacity and improving operational efficiency, SPAR South Africa is enhancing service levels and strengthening collaboration with independent retailers while creating opportunities for growth across the value chain.

Source: SPAR South Africa

Read more about SPAR South Africa.

About SPAR South Africa

SPAR South Africa was established in 1963 when a license was granted by SPAR International to a local business. Today, the license holder is listed on the Johannesburg stock exchange and operates different retail organisations as well as a robust distribution network. SPAR South Africa grants sub-licences to independent retailers to operate SPAR branded stores across the country.