SA`s largest online retailer, Kalahari.net, is capitalising on its 65% annual growth rate by opening a Makro store, Computicket and photographic shop.
Kalahari MD Hein Pretorius says the idea is to have a true one-shop-stop for online consumers, allowing it to leverage its partnerships with third-party suppliers.
The e-tailer recently announced that it experienced the best Christmas and back-to-school shopping seasons it has had to date. Although the figures are still being compiled, it is estimated that consumers spent more than R35 million on the site during December and January.
With the new alliances, Kalahari will offer a total of more than two million products in 14 different categories, including DVDs, books, electronics and consumer appliances.
Kalahari`s alliance with Makro Cash & Carry marks a critical move by the South African part of the worldwide Dutch distribution group. This should allow online shoppers to buy a range of appliances, cellular products, outdoor equipment, toys, stationery and other goods.
According to Chris Nezar, marketing director of Makro SA, this partnership is a win-win situation for both parties. "Makro is now able to align itself with a reputable e-tailer and benefit from the more than 150 000 registered Kalahari customers, while Kalahari is able to offer their shoppers an even bigger selection of products."
The photographic shop caters for professional and amateur alike, and offers digital cameras, memory cards, camcorders, film cameras and lenses. The shop is backed by all major South African camera distributors, including Kodak, Canon and Sony. Each product comes with a one-year warranty.
Computicket offers purchasing of movie and show tickets for venues nationwide. The site also keeps customers up to date with the latest movie releases and shows.
"Diversifying into these niche product ranges means that we can fulfil our shoppers` needs even more. We will always be on the look-out for more strategic partnerships to assist us in our goal of being a one-stop-online-shop," Pretorius says.
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