Amazon has officially entered South Africa through the launch of its marketplace on Amazon.co.za, which went live on Tuesday, 7 May.
To celebrate the launch, the company is offering free delivery on all first orders, thereafter free delivery on orders worth R500 or more. It will offer same-day and next-day deliveries, over 3 000 pick-up points, easy returns, and 24/7 customer support.
The launch of Amazon’s Marketplace will offer healthy competition between Takealot, who held a monopoly for years in the local e-commerce space, which is a win for consumers.
In a blog post, it says customers will also receive status updates via WhatsApp, to track their order at every step of the way. “To further ensure a convenient and trusted shopping experience, Amazon.co.za offers hassle-free returns within 30 days via convenient options, including home pickup and self-drop. Additionally, customer support is provided via phone, email, and live chat.”
Amazon says there are a wide variety of local and international brands across 20 product categories, including Consumer Electronics, Sporting Equipment, Toys, and Home Appliances at great prices. Brands available include Apple, Sony, HP, LEGO, Chicco, Maybelline, Pampers, Neutrogena, and Johnson’s.
Robert Koen, managing director of Sub-Saharan Africa at Amazon says, “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.”
In a media statement, Amazon says it has partnered with goGOGOgo, a South African non-profit organisation, offering customers the opportunity to package eligible products in handmade gift bags. Based in Johannesburg with projects across South Africa, goGOGOgo is dedicated to building the capacity, skills, and knowledge of grandmothers, locally known as GOGOs. Made from recycled plastic and handsewn, these gift bags directly support local businesses and income generation opportunities for GOGOs raising children.
Customers can shop on Amazon.co.za from desktop and mobile browsers, or download the Amazon shopping app.
Recharged is an independent site that focuses on technology, electric vehicles, and the digital life by Nafisa Akabor. Drawing from her 18-year tech journalism career, expect news, reviews, how-tos, comparisons, and practical uses of tech that are easy to digest. Nafisa is a traveller at heart, having been to 46 countries and counting. Find her unique travel tips and tricks on TikTok alongside tech & EV content.
