Takealot has opened a new distribution centre in Durban in a move that will bolster its network capability in SA.
In a year that has seen the entry of Amazon into SA and the continued growth of Chinese players Shein and Temu, Takealot will be looking to defend its position as the country’s largest online retailer.
The company and its parent, Naspers, have poured billions into developing one of the most sophisticated delivery and logistics networks in Africa. As Naspers’ former CEO Bob van Dijk said, it’s an investment that has helped Takealot defend its market position.
The e-commerce company has now taken this one step further.
On Wednesday, the company said its new facility was located in the Brickworks Industrial Park and became operational on September 20.
Takealot said the new centre would enhance its service delivery across KwaZulu-Natal, “ensuring faster, more efficient fulfilment for its shoppers in the region”.
“This new state of the art facility now enhances Takealot’s ability to process orders quicker and more efficiently.”
The facility spans 43,000m2 and is equipped to ship up to 45,000 units a day.
Takealot has been operational in the region for more than a decade.
“The opening of our new Durban distribution centre is an investment in the local economy of KwaZulu-Natal. First, the centre is a strategic enhancement of our delivery network to better service the people of the province,” said Frederik Zietsman, Takealot Group CEO.
“Second, and equally important, the centre will serve as a vehicle for creating valuable employment opportunities in the area and will support SMEs. These are the critical levers of our commitment to fostering economic growth in this dynamic province, and across SA.”
Takealot is hoping the new facility will create jobs in warehouse operations, logistics and collaborations with local delivery services.
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