Retail powerhouse Woolworths is stepping up its drive to boost South African entrepreneurs, announcing an expansion of its Local Supplier Programme to help more small businesses break into the mainstream retail market.
By Times Live
The initiative, which has already brought hundreds of locally made products to Woolworths shelves, focuses on helping emerging entrepreneurs grow sustainable businesses through mentorship, supply chain support, and access to critical retail space.
By partnering directly with local producers — from fresh food farmers to artisanal product makers — Woolworths is tackling barriers that often keep small businesses out of big retail. This means more locally sourced goods, greater job creation, and stronger communities.
“At Woolworths, we believe in real partnerships that build thriving local economies,” the retailer said. “By backing small businesses with the right tools and market access, we’re ensuring that local really does mean opportunity.”
As South Africa battles high unemployment and economic inequality, Woolworths’ renewed commitment to local enterprise is a reminder that big retail has a powerful role to play in uplifting the country’s entrepreneurial spirit — one supplier at a time.
